P0735 on Jeep: How to Diagnose & Fix
Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio
1 Jeep model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical
P0735 on Jeep by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
DaimlerChrysler TSB 08-016-05 describes an internal TCM circuit fault that may cause an intermittent low-line-pressure or gear-ratio DTC and limp-in on a specific 2004 WJ/WG Grand Cherokee population. The vehicle must have the 545RFE (sales code DGQ), a 4.7L or 4.7L High Output engine, and fall within the bulletin's April 7, 2004 through February 27, 2005 vehicle build range. Suspect TCMs have date codes 0984 through 0405. This is not a universal 1999-2010 transmission-overheating/shudder diagnosis, and it does not justify buying filters, fluid, a cooler, valve-body kits, or a solenoid pack from the symptom alone.
Common Symptoms
- Intermittent transmission limp-in mode
- Malfunction indicator lamp with a low-line-pressure or gear-ratio fault
- P0868 line-pressure-low fault
- P0731-P0736 or P1736 gear-ratio fault
How to Fix
Confirm the VIN build record, 545RFE sales code DGQ, stored transmission DTCs, and TCM event data. Read digits three through six of the TCM barcode; TSB 08-016-05 identifies 0984 through 0405 as the suspect controller build range. If the vehicle or controller date is outside scope, the bulletin does not apply and the transmission complaint needs its normal diagnostic path. For an in-scope vehicle, use the bulletin's P0868/gear-ratio decision path and compare desired, scan-reported actual, and mechanically measured line pressure with correct fluid level and temperature. Inspect wiring, connectors, cooler lines, leaks, and engine driveability first. The repair may involve the TCM and, when low pressure was present, inspection for clutch-disc damage; it is not a universal retail-parts fix. No commerce links are shown until those findings identify the required repair.
Owner tips & cautions
- WarningDo not apply this TSB to every 45RFE/545RFE complaint. It requires a 2004 WJ/WG, 4.7L/4.7L H.O., sales code DGQ, the bulletin's vehicle build range, a listed DTC, and a suspect TCM date code.
- TipPreserve the TCM event data before clearing codes. The bulletin uses that data and the controller barcode date to separate a controller fault from actual low pressure and clutch damage.
- WarningA filter kit, ATF, cooler, Sonnax valve, separator plate, or solenoid pack is not a complete answer to this card. The old links represented different failure paths and have been removed.
Sources for this issue (3)
P0735 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0735 mean on a Jeep?
P0735 stands for "Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio." This code means the Transmission/Powertrain Control Module detected an incorrect gear ratio in 5th gear. By comparing input shaft speed to output shaft speed, the module verifies each commanded gear; when the 5th-gear ratio is wrong, P0735 is stored. This typically means the transmission is slipping or failing to lock into 5th gear due to fluid, friction, or solenoid issues. Drivers may notice slipping at highway speeds, RPM flare, poor fuel economy, or limp mode. On Jeep it is documented across 1 model: Grand Cherokee.
What are the most common causes of P0735?
The most common causes of P0735 are: Low or degraded/burnt transmission fluid, Slipping clutch packs or worn friction elements in 5th gear, Stuck or faulty shift solenoid, Valve body / internal hydraulic leak or restriction, Worn or failing torque converter, Faulty input or output speed sensor, Internal mechanical wear inside the transmission. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0735 on a Jeep?
Repair costs vary widely with the root cause and Jeep model; each issue on this page carries its own estimate where one is published.
Looking for P0735 on a different make?
View P0735 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.