P0746 on 2013-2020 Nissan Versa: CVT Pressure Solenoid Causes & Fixes

What's Unique About the 2013-2020 Nissan VERSA

The 2013-2020 Nissan Versa uses a Jatco JF015E CVT that is notoriously prone to issues, particularly with the valve body and its solenoids. Fine metal particles generated during the transmission's break-in period can cause premature wear and sticking of the valves and solenoids. Nissan has released multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) acknowledging problems like 'CVT judder' directly associated with code P0746. [NTB17-034k, NTB22-021A] Due to widespread customer complaints and class-action lawsuits, Nissan extended the original CVT warranty for many 2012-2017 models from 60,000 miles to 84,000 miles/7 years, covering the valve body. Unlike other vehicles where this code might be a simple electrical fault, on the Versa, it is very frequently an indicator of a mechanical or hydraulic failure within the transmission itself, often requiring replacement of the entire valve body assembly.

Diagnostic Flowchart

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

Generation note: This range covers the end of the second generation (N17, 2013-2019) and the beginning of the third generation (N18, 2020). The provided TSBs (NTB17-034 series and NTB22-021A) cover vehicles in both generations, indicating the underlying Jatco CVT issues are present across this year range. [NTB17-034i, NTB22-021A]

Symptoms You May Notice

• Harsh, abrupt, or delayed shifting.
• Vehicle 'juddering' or shuddering, especially on acceleration. [NTB17-034k]
• Loss of power, where the engine revs but the car doesn't accelerate accordingly (transmission slipping).
• Whining or grinding noise from the transmission, which may change with engine RPM.
• Transmission gets stuck in one gear or enters 'limp mode'.
• Check Engine Light or Transmission Warning Light is on.
• Transmission overheating.
• Inability to move when shifting into Drive or Reverse.
• Engine RPMs fluctuate or bounce up and down at a steady speed.

Most Likely Causes

1. Faulty CVT Valve Body / Pressure Control Solenoid 🔴 High Probability This is a well-documented failure point on Nissan's Jatco CVTs. Fine metal debris clogs the valve body passages and causes the solenoids to stick. Multiple TSBs (NTB17-034k, NTB22-021A) point to internal transmission component failure as the root cause for this code. [NTB17-034k, NTB22-021A] The solenoid is typically integral to the valve body assembly and requires splitting the valve body to access, which is not recommended.
   How to confirm: A technician will perform a line pressure test and use a professional scan tool to command the solenoid and check for a response. 🎬 Watch: Diagnostic steps for P0746 and solenoid testing. Dropping the transmission pan and finding significant metallic debris on the magnets is a strong indicator of internal wear leading to valve body failure. The solenoid's resistance can be tested; for the JF015E, the Line Pressure Solenoid (A) should read approximately 5.3 Ω at 68°F (20°C). A significantly higher reading, like 12.6 Ω, indicates a bad solenoid.
   Typical fix: Replacement of the entire CVT valve body assembly, followed by a fluid fill and clutch point relearn procedure. The solenoids are often not sold separately from the valve body.
   Est. part cost: $400-$1300
2. Low or Contaminated CVT Fluid 🟡 Medium Probability Old, burnt, or low fluid cannot maintain the hydraulic pressure required for the solenoids to operate correctly. Debris in the fluid is the primary cause of solenoids and valve body passages sticking or clogging. Using non-genuine Nissan NS-3 fluid can also lead to premature failure.
   How to confirm: Check the CVT fluid level and condition via the dipstick tube (the cap is often held by a small tab). The fluid should be at the correct level and appear clear blue/green (for NS-3), not dark, burnt, or full of metal particles. A severely clogged transmission filter can also cause this code.
   Typical fix: Perform a CVT fluid drain and fill using only Nissan-specific CVT fluid (NS-3). If the fluid is heavily contaminated, the transmission pan should be dropped, the magnets cleaned, and both the internal screen filter and external cartridge filter should be replaced. 🎬 See how to change CVT fluid and both filters.
   Est. part cost: $100-$250
3. Complete Internal CVT Failure ⚪ Low Probability In severe cases, the issues causing P0746 are symptomatic of a larger internal breakdown, such as a failed pump or destroyed belt/pulleys. An owner of a 2016 Versa reported this code was followed by a diagnosis of an 'internally destroyed' CVT requiring full replacement. [ODI #11723320] This can happen if the vehicle is driven for an extended period with the fault code active.
   How to confirm: If a valve body replacement and fluid service do not resolve the issue, or if large metal chunks (not just fine particles) are found in the transmission pan, internal failure is likely. This is a diagnosis of last resort.
   Typical fix: Complete replacement of the CVT assembly.
   Est. part cost: $3000-$5000+

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM): While less common than mechanical or hydraulic issues, a failing TCM can incorrectly report a solenoid problem or fail to command it properly. TSBs often involve reprogramming the TCM as a first step or after a part replacement.
• Wiring Harness Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring between the TCM and the transmission can interrupt the signal to the pressure control solenoid, mimicking a solenoid failure. A technician reported a case on a 2014 Versa where corrosion in the transmission connector was the root cause of a different transmission code (P0705).

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check and record all stored DTCs. Note any other transmission-related codes, especially P0965, P17F0, or P0776. [NTB22-021A]
2. Check the level and condition of the CVT fluid. Look for a dark, burnt appearance or a glittery look indicating metal shavings. The correct fluid is NS-3, which is blue/green.
3. Consult Nissan Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) like NTB17-034k and NTB22-021A for model-year-specific diagnostic flowcharts. [NTB17-034k, NTB22-021A]
4. Using a professional scan tool (like Nissan CONSULT), monitor live data from the transmission. Check that commanded line pressure matches actual line pressure. A constant 0% duty cycle for Solenoid A indicates a stuck-off condition.
5. Inspect the transmission wiring harness and connectors for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
6. Drop the transmission oil pan to inspect for debris. A layer of fine, metallic sludge on the pan magnets is a key indicator of the wear that clogs the valve body. Large chunks indicate a more severe failure.
7. Test the resistance of the Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' at the transmission case connector. It should be approximately 5.3 Ω at 68°F (20°C).
8. Based on TSBs and common failures, replacement of the valve body assembly is the most probable repair 🎬 Watch: Step-by-step guide to replacing the CVT valve body. if the solenoid resistance is out of spec or if significant debris is found in the pan. [NTB17-034k]
9. After repair, perform a CVT fluid fill with genuine Nissan NS-3 fluid and execute the 'Auxiliary Gearbox Clutch Point Learning' procedure.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• CVT Valve Body Assembly (OEM #31705-3JX8A) — This is the most common point of failure for code P0746 on this vehicle. The assembly contains the pressure control solenoids that fail due to contamination. This part number has been superseded by 31705-3JX5D.
  Trusted brands: Nissan (OEM), Hitachi
  OEM price range: $900-$1500
  Aftermarket price range: $400-$800
• Nissan CVT Fluid (NS-3) (OEM #999MP-NS300P) — The correct fluid is required any time the transmission is serviced. Using incorrect or 'universal' fluid can cause damage and void warranties.
  Trusted brands: Nissan (OEM), Idemitsu
  OEM price range: $20-$25 per quart
  Aftermarket price range: $15-$20 per quart

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0965 — This code for 'Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' Circuit Range/Performance' often appears with P0746, as noted in TSBs NTB17-034k and NTB22-021A, indicating a wider problem within the valve body. [NTB17-034k, NTB22-021A]
• P17F0 — This is a Nissan-specific code for 'CVT Judder'. It is frequently stored alongside P0746, as documented in TSBs NTB17-034k and NTB22-021A, directly linking the pressure control issue to the juddering symptom. [NTB17-034k, NTB22-021A]
• P0846 — This code for 'Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'B' Circuit Range/Performance' is also mentioned in TSB NTB17-034i, suggesting a related fault in the transmission's hydraulic pressure monitoring system. [NTB17-034i]
• P0776 — This code for 'Pressure Control Solenoid 'B' Performance / Stuck Off' is also listed in TSB NTB22-021A and indicates a failure of the secondary pressure solenoid, often diagnosed alongside P0746. [NTB22-021A, 25]

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• NTB22-021A: Mentions P0746 for 2020 models in conjunction with other CVT codes like P0776 and P17F0.
• NTB17-034k: Addresses CVT judder and code P0746 for 2013-2017 Versa models, providing a detailed diagnostic flowchart.
• NTB17-034g: Earlier version of the TSB for 2013-2017 Sentra and Versa models with P0746.
• NTB17-034i: Another revision of the TSB for 2013-2017 Sentra and Versa, adding code P0846 to the list of related DTCs.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Multiple TSBs (NTB17-034k, NTB17-034g, NTB17-034i, NTB22-021A) have been issued by Nissan for 'CVT Judder' and the storage of DTC P0746, indicating a widespread, recognized problem with the transmission valve body.
• A 2016 Versa owner filed a complaint with the NHTSA (ODI #11723320) after code P0746 appeared, and a Nissan dealership diagnosed the CVT as 'internally destroyed,' requiring a full replacement.
• Nissan extended the CVT warranty on 2012-2017 Versa models to 84 months/84,000 miles due to class-action lawsuits over these known failures. This extension covered the valve body.
• A Reddit user reported getting code P0746 on their 2015 Versa just 19 months after having the CVT replaced with a remanufactured unit, highlighting the recurring nature of the problem.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' (Line Pressure Solenoid) Resistance — expected: 5.3 Ω at 20°C (68°F), 6.0 Ω at 50°C (122°F), 6.7 Ω at 80°C (176°F). Failure: A significantly higher reading (e.g., over 10 Ω) or an open circuit indicates a failed solenoid.
• Secondary Pulley Pressure Sensor Voltage — expected: 0.88 - 0.94 V at idle in Neutral. Failure: Voltage outside of this range may indicate a sensor or pressure regulation problem.
• CVT Fluid Temperature Sensor Resistance — expected: Approx. 6.5 kΩ at 20°C (68°F), 2.2 kΩ at 50°C (122°F), 0.87 kΩ at 80°C (176°F). Failure: Readings that are far off from these values can affect TCM calculations and pressure control.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Nissan CONSULT or compatible professional scan tool: CONFORM CVTF DETERIORTN (CVT Fluid Deterioration) — This function should be reset after changing the CVT fluid. It resets the fluid life counter in the TCM. This is a required step outlined in Nissan TSBs after servicing the transmission.
• Nissan CONSULT or compatible professional scan tool: ERASE LEARNING VALUE — This is used to clear the adaptive learning values from the TCM after a major repair like a valve body or transmission replacement. It must be followed by the clutch point learning procedure.
• Manual Procedure (No Scan Tool Required): Manual Auxiliary Gear Box Clutch Point Learn Procedure — This 21-step manual procedure is performed after clearing trouble codes or replacing major transmission components if a scan tool with the learning function is not available. It involves a specific sequence of warming the vehicle, ignition cycles, and gentle acceleration/deceleration to make the TCM relearn clutch engagement points for smooth shifting.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Transmission Case Ground — The solenoids inside the JF015E transmission are internally grounded to the transmission case. When testing resistance from the main case connector, the case itself should be used as the ground point.. A poor ground for the transmission assembly could potentially cause erratic solenoid behavior, although it's less common than internal solenoid failure.
• Computer Bracket Ground — On the 2019 Versa Note, a ground wire is attached to the computer bracket located under the battery tray in the engine compartment.. This ground is for the engine/transmission control electronics. Corrosion or a loose connection here could cause a variety of electrical issues, including communication problems with the TCM.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube channel 'Asian Mechanic Guy' (2008 Nissan Versa (Note: This is older than the specified range but uses a similar CVT design and demonstrates a valid failure mode)) — Vehicle would not move properly, transmission codes P0746 and P0868 (Low Pressure Fluid) were stored.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) The owner likely assumed a major transmission failure.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The mechanic dropped the transmission pan and found no large metal debris, only very dirty fluid. He discovered both the pan filter screen and the external cartridge filter were severely clogged with sludge. After cleaning the pan, replacing both filters, and refilling with fresh NS-2 CVT fluid, the car drove perfectly and the codes were resolved.
• YouTube channel 'Towe's Auto Repair' (2016 Nissan Versa) — Check engine light with code P0746, engine RPMs surging up and down at a steady speed.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) The mechanic removed and disassembled the valve body. He tested all four solenoids and found they had identical resistance (6.1 ohms) and all actuated correctly with a power probe. He cleaned the valve body as best as possible, checked the CVT belt (which looked okay), reassembled everything, and cleared the codes.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The repair attempt did not fix the issue. Upon test driving, the transmission felt slightly better, but the P0746 code returned and the RPM surging continued. The mechanic concluded that a simple cleaning was insufficient and the owner would need to decide on a more extensive repair (like a valve body or full transmission replacement) later. This story highlights that even if solenoids test okay electrically, internal blockages or wear in the valve body can still cause the code.

When the Usual Fixes Don't Work

• In a complex case involving a 2017 Nissan Rogue (which uses a similar Jatco CVT), a technician reported that the P0746 code persisted even after a complete mechanical overhaul of the transmission, including a brand new valve body, oil pump, belt, and pulleys. The wiring harness was also confirmed to be good. The issue was isolated to an electronic/programming fault where the car would enter limp mode only when accelerating from a dead stop. This suggests that in very rare instances, the problem may not be mechanical wear but a deep-seated TCM software or calibration issue that is not resolved by standard part replacement and relearn procedures.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 31705-3JX8A → 31705-3JX5D — Unknown, but part supersessions are typically for design improvements, material changes, or manufacturing updates to increase reliability.
  Heads up: These parts appear to be interchangeable for the specified application (JF015E without Start/Stop system). Other compatible part numbers for the same valve body include 31705-X428C and 31705-3XX8E.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2013-2019: The primary CVT used in the Versa Sedan (N17) and Versa Note is the Jatco JF015E (Nissan designation RE0F11A). While TSBs have been updated over the years, the fundamental cause of P0746 related to valve body contamination and failure remains consistent across this generation.
• 2020: The 2020 Versa (N18 generation) introduced a newer CVT, the Jatco JF020E (Nissan RE0F11B). While related to the JF015E, it has design updates. However, TSB NTB22-021A, which addresses P0746, explicitly includes the 2020 Versa, indicating that similar pressure control solenoid issues can still occur in the newer transmission. [NTB22-021A]