P0748 on Dodge: How to Diagnose & Fix
P0748 — Dodge-specific definition
2 Dodge models · 2 documented issues · 1 critical · $150-$2,600 repair
P0748 on Dodge by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
First-gen Neons with the optional 3-speed automatic (a TorqueFlite-family 31TH/A413 unit) are markedly less durable than the 5-speed manual. Documented failure points include a sticking governor valve (causes second-gear starts/binding), sprag/one-way-clutch failure, and clutch/band failures leading to slipping, harsh or missed shifts, dropping out of gear, and no-reverse conditions. Fluid neglect and the Neon's cooling/heat issues accelerate wear.
Common Symptoms
- Slipping or flaring shifts
- Harsh or skipped shifts
- Starts moving in second gear (sticking governor)
- No reverse / stuck in gear
- Drops out of gear at speed
- Whine or lockup then failure
How to Fix
Service with correct ATF and filter on a strict interval; a governor pressure/bracket-and-spring kit (e.g., Sonnax) addresses the sticking-governor second-gear-start complaint. Slipping/no-reverse or sprag failure typically requires a rebuild or replacement transmission. Adding an auxiliary cooler helps longevity.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Sonnax 32204-03K governor bracket/spring kit
Correct the sticking-governor/high-gear-start branch after diagnosis Fitment: Vendor explicitly lists 1995-2001 Neon 2.0L 3-speed A413/31TH Live direct US transmission-parts product page when checked
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (1)
The electronically-modulated 42RE (behind the V6) and 46RE (behind the V8) automatic transmissions, used 1996-1999, rely on a governor pressure solenoid and a governor pressure sensor mounted on the valve body to control shift timing. Heat and mileage fatigue the sensor and cause the solenoid to stick, producing erratic, harsh, or delayed shifts. A failed sensor commonly forces the transmission into limp mode (locked in a single gear). This is a well-known, relatively inexpensive failure that is often misdiagnosed as a worn-out transmission.
Common Symptoms
- Harsh or delayed 1-2 / 2-3 shifts
- No overdrive (4th gear) engagement
- Erratic shift points
- Transmission stuck in one gear (limp mode)
- High RPM flare before a hard 'slam' shift
How to Fix
Replace the governor pressure solenoid and governor pressure sensor as a set (inside the pan on the valve body) and change fluid and filter. This only fixes shift-quality complaints on an otherwise-healthy unit; if fluid is burnt or the transmission is already slipping mechanically, a rebuild is required.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Mopar 4617210 governor-pressure solenoid plus 56041403AA transducer
Replace the failed governor pressure solenoid and sensor together after scan data and hydraulic diagnosis isolate this pair Fitment: Vendor lists 1996-1999 A500/A518 42RE/46RE applications; confirm Dakota transmission tag before purchase…
- Mopar governor-pressure solenoid and transducer set
Alternate exact-year source for the paired repair Fitment: Page is specific to 1996-1999 46RE/47RE-family applications; confirm a 46RE rather than assuming it fits every 3.9L Dakota $229.99 and Add to cart when checked
- 42RE/44RE governor solenoid, sensor, output-speed sensor, filter and gasket service kit
Complete fluid/filter and governor-electronics service branch for the exact transmission subset Fitment: 1998-1999 42RE/44RE only; not a 46RE kit $194.88 and in stock when checked
- Mopar 68218058AC ATF+4 fluid
Approved replacement fluid after the electronic repair and transmission-specific filter service Fitment: Use the service-manual quantity for the exact 42RE/44RE/46RE and repair state Live Mopar direct product page when checked
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (1)
P0748 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 P0748 mean on a Dodge?
On Dodge, P0748: On the RE-series automatics (42RE/46RE), Chrysler/Dodge titles P0748 'Governor Pressure Solenoid Control / Transmission Relay Circuits'. The PCM sets it when the voltage it detects on the governor pressure solenoid control circuit does not match the desired voltage (mopar1973man.com/cummins/articles.html/24-valve-2nd-generation/engine/obdii-error-codes/p0748-governor-pressure-solenoid-control-transmission-relay-r110/). On Dodge it is documented across 2 models: Neon, Dakota.
How much does it cost to fix P0748 on a Dodge?
Published repair estimates on Dodge range from $150 to $2,600 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 P0748 on a different make?
View P0748 across all makes →Join 700+ subscribers following Au7o for vehicle insights and updates.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.