P0741 on 2012-2015 Kia Soul: Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2012-2015 Kia SOUL

For this specific generation range of Kia Soul equipped with the 6-speed automatic transmission (A6GF1), the P0741 code is very frequently linked to the failure of the torque converter clutch solenoid itself. Kia acknowledged this pattern by issuing Technical Service Bulletins (TSB-TRA051 and TSBTRA051R1) that guide technicians to replace the 'Damper Clutch (D/C) Solenoid' when this code is present, instead of replacing the entire transaxle. 🎬 Watch: How to fix the P0741 torque converter clutch code. This makes the diagnosis more straightforward compared to other vehicles where the cause might be more ambiguous.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Generation note: The 2012-2015 year range covers two Kia Soul generations. The 2012-2013 models are the first generation (AM), and the 2014-2015 models are the second generation (PS). Both generations in this range offered the A6GF1 6-speed automatic transmission, and the TSBs regarding the P0741 code apply to these transmissions.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Reduced fuel economy
• Engine RPM is higher than usual at highway speeds (no 1:1 lockup)
• Sensation of transmission slipping, shuddering, or vibration at cruising speeds (45-65 mph), sometimes described as driving over rumble strips
• Transmission may feel like it's shifting late or harshly
• In some cases, the engine may stall or nearly stall when coming to a stop if the solenoid fails in the 'stuck on' position

Most Likely Causes

1. Failed Torque Converter Clutch (Damper Clutch) Solenoid 🔴 High Probability This is a well-documented failure part for the A6GF1 transmission, as confirmed by Kia's own Technical Service Bulletins (TSB-TRA051, TSBTRA051R1). The solenoid can fail electrically (open/short circuit) or mechanically (sticking internally).
   How to confirm: A mechanic can use a scan tool to command the TCC solenoid on and off while monitoring live data for torque converter slip RPM. If the solenoid doesn't respond audibly (can be heard with a stethoscope) or the clutch doesn't engage despite a valid command, the solenoid is the likely culprit. Resistance can also be tested with a multimeter and should be between 5.1 to 5.3 ohms for the TCC solenoid 🎬 See this guide on testing and replacing the solenoid valve. (which is a VFS type).
   Typical fix: Replace the torque converter clutch solenoid. This involves removing the transmission oil pan and the valve body to access the solenoid.
   Est. part cost: $50-$150
2. Low or Dirty Transmission Fluid 🟡 Medium Probability Like any automatic transmission, the A6GF1 relies on clean fluid at the proper level for hydraulic pressure. Old, burnt, or contaminated fluid can clog the small passages in the valve body and solenoids, causing them to stick.
   How to confirm: Check the transmission fluid level and condition via the check plug (this transmission does not have a dipstick). The fluid should be at the correct level when the transmission is at operating temperature (122°F-140°F) and appear clean and red, not dark, burnt, or gritty.
   Typical fix: Perform a transmission fluid drain-and-fill. If the fluid is very dirty, a filter change is also recommended. Use only Kia SP-IV specific fluid.
   Est. part cost: $60-$200
3. Worn or Damaged Internal Transmission Wiring Harness ⚪ Low Probability The internal wiring harness for the A6-series transmission is a known failure point that can cause various solenoid circuit error codes. The harness can become brittle from heat cycles, leading to breaks or shorts.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness for breaks, corrosion, or loose connections once the transmission pan is removed. Test for continuity between the TCM connector and the solenoid connector.
   Typical fix: Replace the internal transmission wiring harness. This is often done at the same time as a solenoid replacement.
   Est. part cost: $100-$250

Rare But Worth Checking

• Failing Torque Converter: If the solenoid and wiring are confirmed to be good but the clutch still won't lock up, the mechanical clutch inside the torque converter itself may have failed. This is a much more expensive repair requiring transmission removal.
• Worn Valve Body: The hydraulic channels and valves within the valve body can wear over time from contaminated fluid, causing pressure losses that prevent the TCC from engaging properly. This is less common than a simple solenoid failure.
• Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM): This is very rare. The TCM itself could fail to send the correct signal, but all other possibilities, especially wiring and solenoids, should be exhausted before replacing the control module.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check and verify the transmission fluid is at the correct level and in good condition. This requires the vehicle to be level and the fluid to be at 122°F-140°F (50-60°C).
2. Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any other transmission-related trouble codes, especially other solenoid codes.
3. With a professional scan tool (like Kia's GDS), monitor live data for 'Torque Converter Slip RPM' while driving at a steady highway speed. The slip should drop to near zero when the TCC is commanded to lock.
4. Use the scan tool's actuation test to command the TCC solenoid on and off. Listen for a clicking sound from the transmission pan area with a stethoscope to confirm mechanical operation.
5. If the solenoid does not respond, drain the fluid and remove the transmission pan.
6. Visually inspect the TCC solenoid and its wiring connector for any obvious damage.
7. Test the resistance of the TCC solenoid with a multimeter. Disconnect the solenoid and measure across its two pins. Compare the reading to the manufacturer's specification (typically 5.1-5.3 ohms for the VFS-type TCC solenoid).
8. If the solenoid tests good, check the wiring harness for continuity from the solenoid connector back to the main transmission connector and to the TCM.
9. If the solenoid and wiring are good, the issue may be a worn valve body or a mechanical failure within the torque converter itself, which requires more intensive transmission work.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Torque Converter Clutch (Damper Clutch) Solenoid (OEM #46313-3B030 (supersedes 46313-3B020)) — This is the most common failure part for code P0741 on this vehicle, as identified in Kia TSBs TSBTRA051R1 and TSB-TRA051.
  Trusted brands: Kia (OEM), Rostra, Standard Motor Products (TCS289)
  OEM price range: $90-$140
  Aftermarket price range: $50-$100
• Transmission Pan Gasket (OEM #45285-2F000) — The gasket must be replaced whenever the transmission pan is removed to access the solenoid. Some technicians may use RTV sealant per the TSB for steel pans.
  Trusted brands: Kia (OEM), Fel-Pro, Mahle
  OEM price range: $20-$40
  Aftermarket price range: $10-$25
• Kia SP-IV Automatic Transmission Fluid (OEM #UM013 CH059) — The transmission fluid must be drained to perform the repair and should be refilled with the correct OEM-spec fluid to prevent damage. You will need 4-6 quarts for a drain and fill.
  Trusted brands: Kia (OEM), Idemitsu TLS-LV, ENEOS ECO ATF
  OEM price range: $15-$25 per quart
  Aftermarket price range: $10-$18 per quart

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0743 — This code indicates an electrical circuit failure (open or short) for the TCC solenoid. If P0741 and P0743 appear together, it strongly points to a bad solenoid or a wiring issue, rather than a purely mechanical or hydraulic problem.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• TSBTRA051R1: Provides information for replacing various shift solenoids, including for DTC P0741, on 6-speed automatic transaxles. Explicitly states 'Do not replace the transaxle'.
• TSB-TRA051: Specifically advises replacing the Damper Clutch (D/C) Solenoid for DTC P0741 and notes the repair can be done with the transaxle in the vehicle.
• TSB-TRA046: A general transmission fluid application guide c

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Kia issued Technical Service Bulletin TSBTRA051R1, which covers multiple models with the 6-speed automatic, instructing dealers to replace specific solenoids for P0741 and other codes, rather than the whole transmission.
• An earlier bulletin, TSB-TRA051, specifically calls out replacing the Damper Clutch (D/C) Solenoid for DTC P0741 on vehicles with the 6-speed automatic transaxle.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Solenoid Resistance — expected: 5.1 - 5.3 Ohms. Failure: A reading outside this range (e.g., open circuit/infinite resistance or a short/zero resistance) indicates a failed solenoid.
• On/Off Shift Solenoid Resistance — expected: 10 - 11 Ohms. Failure: A reading outside this range indicates a failure of an on/off type solenoid, which could be checked for comparison or if other codes are present.
• Torque Converter Slip RPM (Live Data) — expected: Near 0 RPM when TCC is commanded ON at cruising speed.. Failure: A value consistently above 200 RPM when lock-up is commanded indicates the clutch is not engaging.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Kia GDS (Global Diagnostic System) or compatible advanced scan tool (e.g., Autel): Resetting Auto T/A Values / Init Of TCU Learning — This function must be performed after replacing the transmission, valve body, or any solenoids to clear the old learned shift adaptations. Failure to do so can result in poor shift quality even after the repair is complete.
• Kia GDS (Global Diagnostic System) or compatible advanced scan tool: Solenoid Actuation Test — This bidirectional test is used during diagnosis to manually command the TCC solenoid on and off while the vehicle is stationary. It helps verify if the solenoid is mechanically responding (an audible click should be heard) and if the wiring from the TCM to the solenoid is functional.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• External Transmission Harness Connector — On the outside of the transmission case, where the main vehicle harness connects to the internal transmission wiring.. This is the primary connector to test for power and signal to the TCC solenoid from the TCM without dropping the transmission pan. A poor connection or corrosion here can cause intermittent solenoid circuit codes. The connector has 16 active pins.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube video comment section (paraphrased) (Kia/Hyundai with A6GF1/A6MF1 transmission) — Check engine light with P0741, harsh shifting, and RPMs not dropping at highway speeds.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Transmission fluid flush and fill.
  ✅ What actually fixed it Replacing the set of solenoids on the valve body, specifically the torque converter clutch solenoid, resolved the P0741 code and restored normal shifting and lock-up function.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 46313-3B020 → 46313-3B030 — Part revision for improved reliability or manufacturing process change.
  Heads up: The new part number (46313-3B030) is the correct replacement and is fully compatible. Always use the latest part number available.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2012-2015: The Kia Soul transitioned from its first generation (AM, 2012-2013) to its second generation (PS, 2014-2015) during this period. However, both generations used the A6GF1 6-speed automatic transmission with the 1.6L engine, and the P0741 issue related to the TCC solenoid is common to both. The diagnosis and repair procedure remain consistent across these years.