P0746 on Kia: How to Diagnose & Fix
Pressure Control Solenoid Performance/Stuck Off
2 Kia models · 2 documented issues · $150-$4,500 repair
P0746 on Kia by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The YD-generation Forte's conventional six-speed automatic (A6GF1 behind the 1.8/2.0 Nu, A6MF2 behind the 1.6T) wears the aluminium valve-body bores that carry the two pressure-reducing valves and the torque-converter-clutch control valve. As the bores egg out, solenoid feed pressure becomes unstable: line pressure control goes off, upshifts flare or momentarily neutral, the 6-4 kickdown lands as a bang, and torque-converter lockup applies harshly or shudders at light throttle around 40-50 mph. It sets TCC-circuit and pressure codes rather than a hard failure code. This is a hydraulic wear failure of the torque-converter automatic and must not be confused with the BD-generation IVT judder or the GT's 7-speed dry DCT shudder - three different transmissions with three different failure mechanisms.
Common Symptoms
- Hard bang on 6-4 kickdown
- Flare or momentary neutral between upshifts
- Shudder or vibration at light throttle 40-50 mph as lockup applies
- Delayed engagement into Drive or Reverse
- Erratic shift points and slipping under load
How to Fix
Start with a genuine Kia SP-IV fluid exchange (not a high-pressure flush) - degraded fluid accelerates bore wear and sometimes quiets an early shudder. The durable fix is valve-body service: either a remanufactured/OEM valve body, or a bore-repair kit (TransGo SK A6MF and equivalents) that re-sleeves the reducing-valve and TCC control-valve bores. A P0743 almost always means the TCC solenoid itself, which Kia addressed in a transmission TSB. If lockup shudder is severe and long-standing, replace the torque converter with the valve body or the shudder returns. No recall covers this.
Sources for this issue (4)
- TransGo A6MF1/2, A6GF1, A6LF1/2/3 Shift Kit valve body repair kit - documented failure modesarticle
- P0743 Torque Converter Clutch solenoid on A6GF1 - Kia TSB TSBTRA051R1 referencearticle
- 2014-2016 Kia Forte 1.6L Turbo A6MF2 Transmission: Problems and Identificationarticle
- Kia Forte Service Manual - Torque Converter Control Solenoid Valve (T/CON_VFS) Removalarticle
Owners have documented hesitation from a stop, delayed engagement into Drive or Reverse, shuddering at low speed, and inconsistent acceleration behavior from the Rio's Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT/CVT). These complaints are common enough across Hyundai/Kia small-car applications that service information and dealer software updates have been discussed to address shift logic, drivability calibration, and adaptation behavior. In some cases the issue is software-related; in others, internal transmission wear or pulley/belt problems are suspected when symptoms persist.
Common Symptoms
- hesitation from stop
- delayed engagement into drive
- jerking at low speed
- rubber-band acceleration feel
- shudder during takeoff
- high RPM with poor acceleration
How to Fix
Start by checking for transmission-related TSBs, ECM/TCM calibration updates, and stored CVT pressure or ratio codes. Dealers may perform a software update, relearn/adaptation procedure, and fluid inspection; if shudder, slip, or delayed engagement remains, deeper diagnosis of the IVT assembly may be required. Persistent mechanical symptoms can lead to valve body or full transmission replacement.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipBefore authorizing major transmission work, owners commonly ask the dealer to verify the latest TCM/ECM software and perform the adaptation relearn.
- TipDocument cold-start and stop-and-go behavior on video because intermittent hesitation is easier to prove to a dealer with repeatable evidence.
Sources for this issue (1)
P0746 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 P0746 mean on a Kia?
P0746 stands for "Pressure Control Solenoid Performance/Stuck Off." P0746 means the transmission's pressure control solenoid 'A' is performing poorly or appears stuck in the off (low pressure) position. This solenoid regulates hydraulic line pressure that applies clutches and bands to make smooth, firm shifts; the TCM detects when commanded pressure changes aren't producing the expected response. A stuck-off condition typically means line pressure stays low. You may experience slipping, soft or delayed shifts, harsh engagement, overheating, or the transmission entering limp mode. On Kia it is documented across 2 models: Forte, Rio.
What are the most common causes of P0746?
The most common causes of P0746 are: Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid, Faulty pressure control / EPC solenoid, Clogged valve body passages or stuck valve, Wiring or connector fault at the solenoid, Internal transmission wear (worn clutches, leaking seals), Dirty or clogged transmission filter, Faulty transmission control module (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0746 on a Kia?
Published repair estimates on Kia range from $150 to $4,500 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 P0746 on a different make?
View P0746 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.