OBD-II Code P0745: Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Malfunction

What Does P0745 Mean?

Code P0745 indicates the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detected a malfunction in the 'A' pressure control solenoid. This electro-mechanical valve controls the flow of transmission fluid to create the exact hydraulic pressure required for smooth gear shifts. When it fails, the PCM cannot regulate line pressure, resulting in erratic or failed shifting.

Technical definition: The SAE/OBD-II definition for P0745 is "Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Malfunction". This means the PCM or Transmission Control Module (TCM) detected an incorrect voltage reading in the solenoid circuit, or identified a performance failure where actual transmission line pressure does not match the computer's commanded pressure.

Can I Drive With P0745?

Yes, But With Caution. You can drive short distances, but doing so risks severe transmission damage. The transmission enters 'limp mode' to prevent internal failure, causing harsh shifting and poor acceleration. Ignoring this code overheats the transmission fluid and burns up clutch packs. Continuing to drive for more than a few miles turns a minor $200 solenoid repair into a $3,000+ transmission rebuild.

Common Causes

• Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid and Filter (Very Common) — Fluid that is low, degraded, or full of debris is the leading cause of P0745. Dirty fluid clogs the transmission filter and the microscopic passages in the valve body, starving the solenoid of hydraulic pressure and preventing it from operating.
• Faulty Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' (Very Common) — The solenoid itself fails electrically (a shorted or open internal coil) or mechanically (the internal pintle gets stuck). This requires direct replacement of the solenoid.
• Damaged Wiring or Connectors (Common) — The external wiring harness leading to the transmission degrades over time. Frayed wires, rodent damage, or corroded connector pins interrupt the electrical signal between the TCM and the solenoid.
• Faulty Dropping Resistor (Nissan/Infiniti) (Less Common) — Older Nissan and Infiniti models use an external dropping resistor to regulate voltage to the solenoid. If this resistor fails (tests open instead of ~12 ohms), it cuts power to the circuit and triggers P0745.
• Defective Transmission Valve Body (Less Common) — The valve body is the transmission's hydraulic control center. Warped metal, cracked channels, or severely blocked passages prevent proper fluid pressure regulation even if the solenoid is fully functional.
• Failing Transmission Pump (Rare) — A weak transmission pump fails to generate the baseline hydraulic pressure required for the solenoids and clutches to operate.
• Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM) (Rare) — The computer controlling the transmission can suffer an internal driver failure, incorrectly setting a P0745 code. Rule out all other electrical and hydraulic causes before replacing the PCM.

Symptoms

• Check Engine Light is on — The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminates immediately when the PCM detects the pressure discrepancy.
• Harsh or erratic shifting — The vehicle jolts, shudders, or hesitates significantly when shifting from one gear to the next due to unregulated line pressure.
• Transmission slipping — Engine RPMs spike but the vehicle fails to accelerate, feeling as though it slipped into neutral.
• Vehicle enters 'limp mode' — The transmission locks into a single gear (usually 2nd or 3rd) to prevent catastrophic internal damage, severely limiting speed and acceleration.
• Transmission overheating — Slipping clutches generate extreme friction, causing the transmission fluid to overheat and trigger a dashboard warning light.

Diagnostic Flowchart

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

Common Fixes & Costs

• Transmission Fluid and Filter Change — Parts: $50-$120, Labor: $100-$230, ~1.5 hr book time (DIY)
• Replace Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' — Parts: $50-$250, Labor: $200-$450, ~3 hr book time (Intermediate)
  Nissan Altima/Maxima (2004-2008, 4/5-speed AT): OEM 31941-80X05 (Alt: Rostra 52-0521, WVE/Airtex 1T1865)
  Honda Accord/Civic (2003-2007): OEM 28250-PLX-003 (Solenoid Assembly) (Alt: Denso, Standard Motor Products TCS69)
  Acura TL/MDX (2004-2006): OEM 28250-P7W-003 (A/T Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid A & B) (Alt: Beck/Arnley 158-1022)
• Repair or Replace Wiring Harness — Parts: $20-$50, Labor: $150-$300, ~2.5 hr book time (Intermediate)
• Replace Transmission Valve Body — Parts: $400-$900, Labor: $300-$600, ~4 hr book time (Professional)
  Nissan Altima (2013-2016, CVT): OEM 3170E-28X0B (Alt: Rostra 55-0033)
  Honda Accord (2015-2017, V6): OEM 27000-5B7-000 (Alt: Often sold as remanufactured OEM units)
• Complete Transmission Rebuild or Replacement — Parts: $1,800-$4,000, Labor: $700-$1,500, ~10 hr book time (Professional)

DIY vs Professional

• Transmission Fluid and Filter Change — Beginner:
• Replace Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' — Beginner:
• Repair or Replace Wiring Harness — Beginner:
• Replace Transmission Valve Body — Beginner:

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide

When a used part is worth it: A used pressure control solenoid makes sense only if the budget is extremely tight and the vehicle's value is low. Used solenoids carry high risk as they often come from high-mileage vehicles.

Donor-vehicle mileage cap: roughly under 60000 miles for the part to have meaningful remaining life.

Donor quality checklist:

• Verify the donor vehicle was not scrapped for transmission failure.
• Match the part number exactly, as different solenoids have different pressure calibrations.
• Avoid parts showing signs of heavy contamination or debris on the screens.

Decision logic:

• If The labor cost to access the solenoid is high (over $200) → Buy a new OEM or quality aftermarket part. The risk of a used part failing and requiring repeat labor outweighs the initial savings.
• If The vehicle is over 150K miles and you plan to sell it soon → A tested, low-mileage used solenoid is an acceptable short-term solution.
• If The solenoid is part of a complete valve body assembly → Purchase a new or professionally remanufactured assembly, as solenoids are calibrated to the valve body.

Warranty tradeoff: Used parts typically offer a 30-90 day warranty on the part only. New aftermarket parts usually have a 1-year to limited lifetime warranty. New OEM parts carry a 1-year warranty.

Worst-case if a used part fails: $300-$600 if a used solenoid fails after installation, primarily due to the repeated labor cost to remove the transmission pan.

What Happens If You Wait — Timeline

1. 0-1 month: Check Engine Light on. Intermittent harsh shifts, especially when cold. Vehicle occasionally enters 'limp mode' but resets after restarting. (MPG impact: 0-5%% · Added cost: $0)
2. 1-3 months: Shifting becomes consistently harsh and delayed. Transmission begins to slip. Fluid overheats, accelerating its breakdown and forming varnish. (MPG impact: 5-10%% · Added cost: $50-$150 in wasted fuel and heat stress to fluid.)
3. 3-6 months: Sustained high pressure and slipping burns clutch material, heavily contaminating the fluid. Valve body passages become clogged. Solenoid replacement is no longer sufficient. (MPG impact: 10-15%% · Added cost: $700-$1,500 (Damage progresses to the valve body, requiring replacement).)
4. 6+ months: Catastrophic internal failure. Metal shavings from burnt clutches contaminate the entire system. The transmission pump fails. Vehicle becomes undriveable. (MPG impact: 15-25%% · Added cost: $2,500-$5,500+ (A complete transmission rebuild or replacement is required).)

Cost of Not Fixing It

• 0-1 month: Noticeable drop in fuel economy, harsh shifting, and frequent limp mode activation. Transmission fluid begins to overheat. (Added cost: Negligible, besides extra fuel costs.)
• 1-6 months: Continued overheating degrades transmission fluid, causing varnish buildup and burning clutch packs. Significant internal slipping occurs. (Added cost: $400-$900 (Valve body damage requires replacement rather than just a solenoid).)
• 6+ months: Catastrophic internal transmission failure. Metal debris from worn parts contaminates the entire system, destroying the pump and gears. (Added cost: $2,500-$5,500+)

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check Transmission Fluid Level and Condition
   With the engine running and transmission in Park or Neutral, check the fluid dipstick. The fluid must be at the 'Full' mark and bright red. Low, brown, or burnt-smelling fluid confirms contamination or internal clutch wear.
   Tools: Rag or paper towel (Beginner)
2. Scan for Codes & Review Live Data
   Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0745 and check for related codes (like P0748). Access live data to monitor Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT), desired line pressure, and actual line pressure. A significant gap between desired and actual pressure confirms a hydraulic or mechanical failure.
   Tools: OBD-II Scanner (with live data capability) (Beginner)
3. Inspect Wiring and Connectors
   Visually inspect the wiring harness leading to the transmission and the main solenoid connector. Look for chafing against the chassis, melted insulation, or green corrosion on the pins.
   Tools: Flashlight (Intermediate)
4. Test Solenoid and Circuit Resistance
   Using a digital multimeter, check the resistance of the pressure control solenoid at the transmission connector. Compare the reading to the service manual (typically 2.5-5.0 ohms). A reading of infinity or zero ohms confirms a dead solenoid. On Nissan models, test the dropping resistor for ~12 ohms.
   Tools: Digital Multimeter, vehicle-specific wiring diagram (Advanced)
5. Test Transmission Line Pressure
   Connect a transmission pressure gauge to the transmission's test port. With the engine running, compare actual line pressure at idle and stall speed against the service manual specifications. Significant deviations confirm a failing pump or valve body rather than an electrical fault.
   Tools: Transmission pressure gauge set, service manual (Advanced)
6. Inspect the Valve Body and Solenoid
   Drain the transmission fluid and remove the pan. Visually inspect the solenoid for physical damage. Check the bottom of the pan for excessive metal shavings, which indicate severe internal transmission failure requiring a rebuild.
   Tools: Socket set, drain pan, torque wrench, new pan gasket (Advanced)
7. ADVANCED: Check for PWM Signal at the Solenoid
   Back-probe the solenoid signal wire with a multimeter set to Duty Cycle. With the engine running and transmission in gear, verify the TCM is sending a fluctuating duty cycle percentage. A steady 0% or 100% reading indicates a TCM or wiring failure.
   Tools: Digital Multimeter (with Duty Cycle), back-probe kit (Professional)
8. PROFESSIONAL: Analyze Solenoid Waveform with an Oscilloscope
   Connect an oscilloscope and low-amp current clamp to the solenoid control wire. A functional solenoid displays a clean square wave voltage pattern and a ramping current pattern. Missing square waves or erratic current ramps confirm a failing solenoid coil or TCM driver.
   Tools: Oscilloscope, low-amp current clamp (Professional)

When This Code Triggers (Freeze-Frame Conditions)

• Engine Coolant Temp: 175-210°F (Vehicle at full operating temperature.)
• RPM: 1500-2500 (During or just after a gear shift at cruise or light acceleration.)
• Engine Load: 25-55% (Steady driving or light acceleration, not heavy load.)
• Vehicle Speed: 35-55 mph (Code sets during shifts at city or highway cruising speeds.)

Related Codes

• P0746 — Indicates Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off. While P0745 is a general malfunction, P0746 specifically means the solenoid is failing to activate, pointing directly to a mechanical jam or hydraulic blockage.
• P0747 — Indicates Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' is Stuck On. The PCM detects line pressure is too high because the solenoid fails to deactivate. Diagnosis focuses on a mechanically stuck open valve or a short-to-power in the wiring.
• P0748 — Indicates an electrical circuit failure for Solenoid 'A'. P0745 can be mechanical, but P0748 confirms the fault is strictly electrical (open or short in the wiring, coil, or TCM).
• P0740 — Relates to the Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Solenoid. P0745 affects line pressure for all gear shifts, while P0740 only affects the lock-up clutch at highway cruising speeds.

Climate & Environmental Factors

• Extreme Heat: High ambient temperatures and heavy towing accelerate transmission fluid breakdown. Degraded fluid loses its hydraulic properties and forms varnish, which clogs solenoid passages and triggers P0745.
• Extreme Cold: Sub-zero temperatures thicken transmission fluid, drastically increasing hydraulic resistance. This causes delayed shifts upon startup and strains the pressure control solenoid as it attempts to regulate the viscous fluid.
• High Humidity / Water Exposure: Moisture penetrates unsealed electrical connectors, corroding the solenoid harness pins. This corrosion creates electrical resistance that disrupts the TCM's signal, triggering the code.

How to Talk to a Mechanic About This Code

Say this: "I have a P0745 code and I'm experiencing harsh shifting. I'd like to schedule a diagnostic. Please start by checking the fluid condition, inspecting the external wiring, and testing the pressure control solenoid circuit before recommending a major repair."

This signals you've done research and know the common, less-expensive causes. It directs the technician to follow a logical diagnostic path instead of immediately quoting a transmission rebuild, which is a known scam tactic.

Avoid saying:

• 'My transmission is acting weird, just fix it.'
• 'I got a P0745, how much for a new transmission?' (Invites an unnecessarily high quote)
• 'Just do whatever you think is best.' (Gives up all control)

Questions to ask before authorizing the repair:

• What were the results of the solenoid resistance test and the line pressure test?
• Did you find any metal shavings or debris in the transmission pan?
• Can you show me the damaged part or the faulty wiring?
• Does this repair estimate include a new filter and the correct OEM-specified fluid?
• What is the warranty on both the parts and the labor for this repair?

Where to Take It: Dealer vs Independent vs Chain

• Dealer: Recommended if the vehicle is under warranty or has a known TSB that an independent shop might miss. Otherwise, it is the most expensive option.
  Best for: Vehicles under powertrain warranty., Complex, manufacturer-specific issues (e.g., CVT problems, TCM programming)., When you want guaranteed OEM parts and fluids.
  Downsides: Highest labor rates., Defaults to replacing larger, more expensive assemblies (like a full valve body) instead of smaller components. (Typical cost: +50% vs. baseline)
• Independent Shop: Good fit for straightforward electrical tests or solenoid replacement. A general mechanic handles most P0745 causes.
  Best for: Out-of-warranty vehicles where cost is a factor., Common repairs like a solenoid or fluid/filter change., Building a long-term relationship with a trusted mechanic.
  Downsides: Quality and diagnostic capabilities vary greatly. Look for ASE certification., Lacks the latest manufacturer-specific tools for programming a new TCM. (Typical cost: +0% vs. baseline)

When to Walk Away From the Repair

If the estimated repair cost exceeds 50% of the car's private-party value, seriously consider selling or trading it in. For older cars (over 150,000 miles), this threshold drops to 40%.

• Car worth $4000, fix is $2800: Walk away. The repair cost is 70% of the car's value. A transmission rebuild is not a sound investment here.
• Car worth $10000, fix is $700: Fix it. A solenoid replacement at 7% of the vehicle's value is a very reasonable repair.
• Car worth $3000, fix is $1500: Borderline. This is exactly at the 50% threshold. Get a second opinion and consider the car's overall condition before proceeding.

What Scan Tool You Need for This Code

Minimum: A scanner that reads manufacturer-specific transmission codes and views live data PIDs (Parameter IDs).

A cheap code reader only shows the P0745 code. It cannot display the essential live data needed for diagnosis, such as desired vs. actual line pressure or transmission fluid temperature.

Professional: Autel MaxiCOM MK808S-TS or XTOOL D7 (~$450-700) — These diagnostic tablets provide comprehensive OE-level diagnostics, full bidirectional control, and special service functions like performing a transmission 're-learn' procedure after a repair.

Rent vs buy: For a one-time code read, auto parts stores offer free scanning. However, to properly diagnose P0745 by viewing live data, you must buy your own scanner. A budget or mid-range pick is a worthwhile investment.

How to Clear the Code After You Fix It

1. Use an OBD-II scan tool to clear the trouble codes.
2. Perform a complete OBD-II drive cycle to allow readiness monitors to run.
3. Do not disconnect the battery to clear codes, as this resets all modules and readiness monitors.

Drive cycle (~30 minutes): Start with a cold engine. Let idle for 2-3 minutes. Drive in stop-and-go traffic for 15-20 minutes, including several complete stops. Drive at a steady highway speed (55-60 mph) for 5-10 minutes. Allow the vehicle to cool down completely.

Readiness monitors affected: Comprehensive Component Monitor, Transmission

Before emissions retest: drive at least 100 miles to fully set monitors.

Watch out for:

• Clearing the code without fixing the underlying problem causes the code to return immediately upon shifting.
• Taking the vehicle for an emissions test before the readiness monitors are 'Ready' results in an automatic failure.

Will This Fail Emissions / State Inspection?

Yes — this code typically fails an OBD-II emissions inspection.

• California: An illuminated Check Engine Light results in an automatic smog check failure. After repair, a full drive cycle must be completed to set readiness monitors before a retest is possible.
• New York: The NYS DMV vehicle safety/emissions inspection includes an OBD-II scan. A P0745 code is an automatic failure.
• Texas: In the 17 counties requiring emissions testing, an active P0745 code causes the vehicle to fail the inspection.

Most Commonly Affected Vehicles

• Nissan Altima, Maxima, Murano, Sentra, Frontier, Xterra (2000-2016) — Extremely common. Frequently caused by a faulty dropping resistor on the strut tower (must test at 12 ohms) or a poor ground connection on the valve body. TSB NTB05-001 addresses soldering a loose ground terminal for 2003-2005 4-speed models.
• Honda Accord, Civic, CR-V, Odyssey, Pilot (2001-2015) — Solenoid failure is the primary cause. 'Solenoid A' is often part of a dual or triple linear solenoid assembly mounted on the exterior of the transmission, making replacement straightforward.
• Acura TL, MDX, RDX, TSX (2004-2014) — Shares the same transmission architecture as Honda. The A/T Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' assembly frequently fails and requires replacement.
• Ford Focus, Fusion, Escape, Explorer, F-150 (2004-2014) — The 4F27E and 5R55S transmissions are highly susceptible. P0745 is often caused by wear in the solenoid block's aluminum bores, requiring a sleeved valve body repair rather than just a new solenoid.
• Infiniti G35, G37, FX35, QX56, I30, I35 (2001-2015) — Shares Nissan's dropping resistor architecture. Always test the external resistor before dropping the transmission pan.
• Toyota Camry, Corolla, RAV4, Highlander, Sienna (2002-2013) — Often linked to a failing solenoid or internal transmission wear in the U140E/U240E transmissions. Using non-OEM fluid (anything other than Toyota T-IV or WS) accelerates this failure.

Manufacturer-Specific Notes

• Nissan: On older 4-speed automatics (Maxima, Altima, Quest), TSB NTB05-001 identifies a poor ground terminal connection for the line pressure solenoid. The official fix is soldering the connection directly rather than replacing parts.
• Ford: On 5R55S/W/N transmissions, P0745 is frequently caused by physical wear in the solenoid block's bores, causing pressure loss. Replacing the solenoid fails to fix the issue; the valve body requires oversized sleeves or total replacement.
• Toyota: Toyota transmissions are highly sensitive to fluid friction modifiers. Using generic ATF instead of Toyota T-IV or WS fluid causes solenoid sticking and valve body issues, directly triggering P0745.

Real Owner Stories

2004 Nissan Xterra - The Easy Fix

Check Engine Light came on with code P0745. Owner noticed rough shifting between 1st and 2nd gear.

What they tried:

1. Owner researched the code and found that a faulty dropping resistor is a common cause on Nissans.

Outcome: The owner located the dropping resistor on the passenger-side inner fender, tested it, and found it was open (failed). Instead of buying a $60 OEM part, they purchased a 12-ohm, 20-watt power resistor from Amazon for a few dollars, soldered it in, and cleared the code successfully.

Lesson: For Nissan/Infiniti vehicles with a P0745 code, always test the external dropping resistor first. It's an inexpensive part and a very common point of failure that saves you from a complex transmission diagnosis.

2004 Infiniti I35 - A Misdiagnosis Story

Car was throwing a P0745 code and shifting very hard between 1st and 2nd gear. The previous owner had neglected transmission service.

What they tried:

1. The owner checked the dropping resistor, which tested good at 12 ohms.
2. They dropped the transmission pan to test the solenoid directly. The solenoid's resistance was within the correct 2.5-5.0 ohm range.
3. They applied 12V directly to the solenoid and heard it click, confirming it was not electrically dead.

Outcome: The owner concluded the solenoid was mechanically stuck due to old, dirty fluid. After performing a transmission fluid and filter change, the hard shifting resolved and the code did not return.

Lesson: A solenoid can pass electrical tests but still be faulty if it gets mechanically stuck from debris or varnish. A simple fluid and filter service frees it up and should be tried before replacing expensive parts.

2005 Ford Mustang - The Slippery Slope to Rebuild

P0745 code appeared. A transmission flush at the dealer temporarily cleared the light. The code returned, and the owner experienced a very hard shift on the highway, followed by a squeaking sound.

What they tried:

1. A transmission fluid and filter service was performed, but the issue came back.

Outcome: A trusted transmission shop found metal shavings in the pan and a clogged solenoid. This indicated internal mechanical damage (a bad gear band). The owner required a complete transmission rebuild at a cost of $2,300.

Lesson: If a fluid change doesn't fix the issue, or if you find metal shavings in the fluid, the problem is beyond a bad solenoid. Metal debris is a sign of internal mechanical failure requiring a rebuild.

How to Prevent This Code From Triggering

• Perform regular transmission fluid and filter changes. (Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or more often for severe use (towing, city driving).) — Clean fluid prevents the buildup of clutch material and debris that clogs the fine passages in the valve body and causes solenoids to stick.
• Use only the OEM-specified Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). (At every fluid change.) — Manufacturer-specific fluids have precise frictional and viscosity properties. Using the wrong fluid causes shifting problems and damages internal solenoids.
• Install an auxiliary transmission cooler. (One-time installation, especially for trucks or vehicles used for towing.) — Overheating is a primary cause of transmission failure. A cooler keeps fluid temperatures stable, preventing fluid breakdown and protecting solenoids from heat damage.
• Check for and repair fluid leaks promptly. (During every oil change or monthly check.) — Low fluid levels cause the transmission pump to work harder, leading to low line pressure, increased heat, and strain on the pressure control solenoids.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common misdiagnoses for a P0745 code?

Technicians sometimes mistake P0745 symptoms for an engine misfire or a general driveline problem. Another common pitfall is immediately blaming the transmission pump when the actual cause is a wiring issue or a faulty solenoid.

Can I fix a P0745 code myself?

Checking the transmission fluid or replacing an external dropping resistor are DIY-friendly tasks. However, replacing the solenoid or valve body requires draining fluid, removing the transmission pan, and working in a tight space. Leave internal transmission work to a professional unless you have advanced mechanical experience.

How much does it cost to fix a P0745 code?

Costs range from $150 for a fluid change to $700 for a solenoid replacement. Valve body replacements average $1,200, while full transmission rebuilds exceed $3,000. Always start with a $100-$150 diagnostic check to pinpoint the exact failure.

What happens if I don't fix a P0745 code?

Ignoring a P0745 code causes severe and permanent damage to your transmission. Continued driving overheats the fluid and burns the clutches, ultimately requiring a complete transmission rebuild.

What is a 'dropping resistor' and can it cause P0745?

A dropping resistor reduces the voltage supplied to the pressure control solenoid in older Nissan and Infiniti vehicles. If this resistor fails or its wiring is damaged, the solenoid loses power and triggers a P0745 code. It is located in the engine bay and is easily tested for its required 12-ohm resistance.

Do I have to replace the whole valve body or just the solenoid?

If tests confirm the solenoid has failed electrically or is mechanically stuck, you can replace just the solenoid. However, if the valve body is warped, cracked, or has clogged passages, the entire assembly requires replacement. On many modern transmissions, solenoids are calibrated to the valve body and only sold as a complete unit.

Can a bad battery cause a P0745 code?

A weak or failing battery causes low voltage issues throughout the vehicle's electrical system. This leads to erratic behavior from the Transmission Control Module (TCM) and triggers false solenoid codes. Always verify your battery and alternator are outputting correct voltage before replacing transmission components.

Key Takeaways

• Code P0745 indicates a transmission hydraulic pressure failure, most frequently caused by degraded fluid or a failed 'A' pressure control solenoid.
• Expect harsh shifting, transmission slipping, and the vehicle locking into 2nd or 3rd gear (limp mode) to prevent internal damage.
• Driving with an active P0745 code for more than a few miles overheats the transmission fluid and burns clutch packs, turning a $200 repair into a $3,000 rebuild.
• Always check the transmission fluid condition and test the external dropping resistor (on Nissan models) before authorizing a costly valve body replacement.