P0741 on Buick: How to Diagnose & Fix
Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance/Stuck Off
3 Buick models · 4 documented issues · 2 critical · $150-$5,500 repair
P0741 on Buick by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Aisin AF40 6-speed automatic in 2011-2017 Regal (and 2010-2017 LaCrosse 4-cyl, 2008-2017 Opel Insignia A) develops harsh 1-2 and 2-3 shifts, torque-converter shudder at light throttle, and delayed engagement, usually 80,000-150,000 miles. GM's "lifetime fill" claim is widely disputed by independent shops.
Common Symptoms
- harsh shifts
- torque converter shudder
- delayed engagement
- flare on upshift
How to Fix
Drain-and-fill ATF every 50,000 miles using AC Delco / Aisin AFW+ (or JWS3309 equivalent) — about $150-$250 DIY (5-6 qt drained per service). Severe shudder may need torque converter or valve body work ($1,500-$3,500). If neglected past 120k miles, full rebuild may be required ($3,500-$5,500).
Sources for this issue (1)
Regals equipped with the GM 6T40/6T70 six-speed automatic can develop torque-converter shudder, slipping or flare on the 2-6 shift, and harsh/delayed shifts. The 6T40 issue is commonly debris blocking the 2-6 clutch regulator valve circuit; the 6T70 suffers wear in the accumulator/solenoid valve bores and torque-converter clutch shudder, sometimes worsened by overheated, degraded fluid.
Common Symptoms
- Shudder/vibration under light acceleration
- Slipping or RPM flare between gears
- Hard or delayed shifts
- Surge when shifting into/out of 2nd or 6th
How to Fix
Start with a full transmission fluid/filter service (fixes many shudder cases). Persistent problems require valve body cleaning/rebuild, accumulator bore repair, or torque converter replacement. Use only the correct GM spec fluid.
Sources for this issue (1)
The 2020+ Encore GX uses either the VT40 CVT (FWD 1.2L) or the GM 9T50 9-speed (AWD 1.3L). Both have reported issues: CVT hesitates from a stop, jerks on tip-in, and growls. 9-speed has been the subject of multiple TSBs covering harsh shifts, flares, and torque converter shudder.
Common Symptoms
- hesitation from stop
- jerk on tip-in
- shudder at light throttle
- harsh shifts
How to Fix
CVT: software update via dealer (TSB 21-NA-141 and successors). 9-speed: ATF flush + reprogramming if persistent shudder; valve body or torque converter if not resolved. Many fixes were under GM's "PI" (Product Investigation) bulletins — check for active campaigns on your VIN.
Sources for this issue (3)
Both the 6-speed (first-gen) and the 9-speed 9T65 (second-gen, 2018+) Enclaves are prone to a torque converter clutch shudder felt as a vibration or 'chuggle' during light acceleration, low-speed lockup, or while climbing grades. On 2018-2019 models GM traced many cases to incorrect transmission fluid installed at the factory, addressing it under TSB 18-NA-091 (and PIP5608C). Left unaddressed, the shudder can accelerate clutch and converter wear.
Common Symptoms
- Shudder/vibration under light acceleration
- Chuggle or jerk when transmission locks up
- Vibration when accelerating uphill
- Shudder around 25-45 mph
How to Fix
Per GM bulletin: flush and refill with the specified DEXRON-VI fluid (part 88862156) and reprogram the TCM with a fast-learn relearn. Persistent cases may require torque converter replacement.
Sources for this issue (2)
P0741 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 P0741 mean on a Buick?
P0741 stands for "Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance/Stuck Off." This code means the torque converter clutch (TCC) is not working as expected and is effectively stuck off, so the converter clutch isn't locking up the way the computer commands it to. The TCC mechanically links the engine to the transmission at cruising speeds to reduce slippage and improve fuel economy, and the computer compares engine RPM to transmission/output speed to verify lockup. When the expected RPM drop from lockup doesn't happen, it sets this performance code. You may notice higher-than-normal RPM at highway speed, reduced fuel economy, and sometimes elevated transmission temperatures. On Buick it is documented across 3 models: Regal, Encore GX, Enclave.
What are the most common causes of P0741?
The most common causes of P0741 are: Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid, Faulty torque converter clutch (TCC) solenoid, Stuck or worn valve body / TCC control valve, Failed torque converter (internal clutch worn or slipping), Internal transmission leaks reducing apply pressure, Damaged wiring or connector to the TCC solenoid, Faulty transmission control module (TCM/PCM). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0741 on a Buick?
Published repair estimates on Buick range from $150 to $5,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0741 on a different make?
View P0741 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.