GMC-specific code — factory diagnostic data| DTC Data Sheet | |
| Code | P0741 |
| Vehicle | GMC Sierra 1500 (2007-2019) |
| Engine | 4.8L-6.2L V8 (4L60E, 4L70E, 6L80E) |
| System | TRANSMISSION |
| Fault type | Performance |
| Official meaning | Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance / Stuck Off |
Definition source: GMC factory description. Diagnostic guidance is based on factory-defined fault logic for this code.
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P0741 Quick Answer
P0741 on a Sierra means the torque converter clutch was commanded to lock but didn’t. On 4L60E-equipped Sierras (2007-2013) the cause is usually the TCC solenoid in the valve body or the PWM solenoid. On 6L80E (2007-2019) it’s typically the TEHCM or burnt converter clutch material clogging the valve body. Check fluid first.
What Does P0741 Mean on a GMC Sierra 1500?
The GMC Sierra 1500 (2007-2019) shares the GMT900 / K2XX chassis and Gen-IV LS engine families with the Chevy Silverado 1500. P0741 root causes match the Silverado pattern exactly. The model-specific failure modes documented below apply to all Sierra trim levels using the same engine.
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light (P0741)
- Shudder at 45-55 MPH cruise
- Engine RPM “flares” — doesn’t drop at lockup speed
- Reduced highway fuel economy
- Possible harsh shifts
Common Causes (Most Likely on This Model First)
- 4L60E TCC solenoid failure. Located in the valve body. 100k-150k miles loss of sealing ability. Pan drop + replacement.
- 4L60E PWM solenoid wear. Causes shudder before P0741 sets.
- Burnt TCC clutch material. Friction material circulates and clogs the valve body. Dark, burnt-smelling fluid = converter is failing.
- 6L80E TEHCM internal fault. Replacement is expensive but covered under powertrain warranty within 100k.
- Wiring at transmission case. Heat damage or backed-out pin.
- Low transmission fluid. Always check first.
Diagnostic Approach
- Check transmission fluid level and condition first. Burnt smell = converter already failing.
- Watch RPM vs. speed at steady 50 MPH cruise. Engine RPM should drop ~200-400 when TCC engages.
- Bidirectional command of TCC solenoid — should feel RPM drop.
- Inspect transmission case connector for damage.
- Pan drop and inspect for friction material — significant black material = converter clutch already failed.
Possible Fixes
| Fix | When |
|---|---|
| Fluid + filter service (Dexron VI) | Always first |
| TCC + PWM solenoid (4L60E) | Solenoid won’t actuate, fluid clean |
| TEHCM replacement (6L80E) | Confirmed module fault |
| Torque converter replacement | Burnt fluid, friction material in pan |
Can I Still Drive With P0741?
Short-term yes if shifts are otherwise normal. Long-term no — sustained TCC slippage destroys the converter clutch and turns a $400 solenoid job into a $3,500 rebuild.
How Serious Is This Code?
Moderate. The fix is dramatically cheaper if you catch it before mechanical converter wear.
Repair Costs
| Repair | Cost |
|---|---|
| Fluid + filter service | $240 – $480 |
| TCC + PWM solenoid (4L60E) | $340 – $720 |
| TEHCM (6L80E) | $720 – $1,400 |
| Torque converter replacement | $1,400 – $2,800 |
| Transmission rebuild | $2,800 – $5,500 |
FAQ
What causes P0741 on a GMC Sierra?
On 4L60E Sierras (2007-2013), the TCC solenoid in the valve body. On 6L80E (2007-2019), typically the TEHCM module. Burnt fluid from worn converter clutch material is a common cause on high-mileage trucks regardless of transmission.
Can I drive my Sierra with P0741?
Short-term yes. You’ll lose torque converter lockup at cruise and lose ~3-5 MPG on the highway. Long-term no — TCC shudder destroys the converter clutch and turns a solenoid job into a rebuild.
How much to fix P0741 on a Sierra?
TCC solenoid (4L60E): $340-$720. TEHCM (6L80E): $720-$1,400. Converter replacement: $1,400-$2,800. Cheap path requires catching it before the converter wears mechanically.
Will a transmission flush fix P0741?
A proper fluid + filter service can fix it if the cause was burnt fluid contaminating the valve body. If fluid is dark with friction material in the pan, the converter is already mechanically failing.