Where is torque converter clutch solenoid on 2012 Grand Cherokee?

[ratch311]

Hi everyone!
New to owning a Jeep, and recently purchased a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.0 CRD. Bought it for towing a 2.5t caravan which it had been doing very well.
Unfortunately shortly after towing, it threw the following fault code:
P0741: Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid - performance or stuck off
Can anyone tell me where the torque converter clutch solenoid is located? I'd love to look up the part number and see what I'm dealing with.
Thanks for your help!
-Richard

[jeepsgofaster]

Can't help specifically with the diesel box but a generalization is that it's usually inside the pan towards the front of the valve body

Sent from my CPH1921 using Tapatalk

[drover]

Assuming a 5 speed box then, its inside the box, if you google the solenoid adding a W5A580 tranny or NAG1 tranny you should get a hit.
If its been awhile since its had a service this could be the cause of problem, while they have a stupid 100K service interval changing at 40K intervals is far better option, these boxes certainly don;t like cruddy oil.... The 100K service regime is really only to lower the quoted service cost same with all brands.......

Some say a clearing of codes by battery disconnect will set things right but only for a short time, the service may require a good flush and clean out, ..... Use a Tranny shop for a professional job though, as they will be able to clean the box properly and check the solenoid operation , one that is familiar with Mercs is a good choice, a dealer will just stuff you around.

[Treebreakerbob]

Yep, Drover’s right. Will be the W5A580 box. The original service distance was 40,000 k’s but when the eight speed arrived somehow the service interval on the five speed was changed with it. I know because mine was in for the 40,000 service (whole car) and they didn’t do the gearbox as the new specs came out

The tc solenoid is on the conductor plate attached to the valve body, which can be removed without removing gearbox. There is also 1-2,4-5; 2-3;3-4 solenoids

If there is muck, clutch or metal debris then you most likely will need to have the gearbox rebuilt. There are some dodgy auto guys around and you will need the box to be upgraded along with the TC to prevent future failures. Ask questions and satisfy yourself the answers you get means they are aware of upgrades. Mine was rebuilt by a reputable company that also did race boxes but failed within 7,000 k’s as they didn’t have a clue about what causes the failures of these boxes, it also wasn’t sealed properly and let water in which stopped me getting a refund as they claimed it was my fault because I drove through creeks and on wet days which was acceptable to fair trading to not pursue any further
It’s too long a story

[ratch311]

Being in Tasmania, my options for service/mechanics are limited. I found a transmission place in Hobart who said the following:
** This is a common fault and 99% of the time it's a thermostat along the lines of the transmission that fails.
** This most likely requires a rebuilt gear box with an aftermarket thermostat, all for approximately $7500-$8500
Does this sound right?
My initial fault code is as follows:
P0741: Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid - performance or stuck off
What the guy was saying didn't sound right to me but I'm certainly no expert.
The Jeep drives fine and the only thing I noticed was a lack of power going up hills.
Just to play it safe I won't be towing anything (we are living in a caravan) until I can get a mechanic to look at it.
Challenging through, my nearest town (Launceston) didn't have a mechanic who was able/willing to have a look...
Any tips here would be greatly appreciated. So far I don't have any confidence either in talking to local mechanics or even to the Launceston dealership...

[Mace1]

Gday Richard.

Im in Hobart, so a bit far away to recommend anyone...

Id suggest joining up on the Tas Jeep Facebook page. There are quite a few members in the North. Most drive Wranglers or XJ's (like myself), but they might know of mechanics or Auto trans specialists that speak Jeep in the North.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1716863545237558

Good Luck.

Al.

[ratch311]

Thanks for that Al- couldn't find anyone in Launceston so I've found a transmission shop in Hobart (ATS Automotive) who is the mechanic who I shared his reply in this same post.
Have you found any mechanics in Hobart you'd recommend? I'm assuming I'll need a transmission specialist...