P0846 on 2008-2020 Dodge Grand Caravan: 2/4 Pressure Switch Fault Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2008-2020 Dodge Grand Caravan

The 2008-2020 Grand Caravan uses the 62TE 6-speed automatic transmission, which is known for having specific weak points, particularly the solenoid pack. Unlike generic definitions for P0846 that point to a 'Sensor B Circuit', on this van, the code specifically refers to the 2/4 pressure switch. These pressure switches are not sold separately but are integrated into the main solenoid pack (also called the solenoid block), which is a common failure point on the 62TE transmission.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on.
• Transmission is stuck in one gear (limp mode).
• Harsh or erratic shifting, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear.
• Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive.
• Inability to shift into higher gears, such as 5th or 6th (overdrive).
• Traction Control System (TCS) warning light may also illuminate.
• Vehicle won't kick down a gear when accelerating hard.

Most Likely Causes

1. Faulty Transmission Solenoid Pack / Pressure Switch Assembly 🔴 High Probability The pressure switches are integrated into the solenoid pack, a widely documented weak point on the 62TE transmission. Internal contamination from normal wear and clutch material can cause the mechanical switches to fail or their internal passages to clog.
   How to confirm: After confirming the fluid is clean and full and that the wiring is intact, the solenoid pack is the next logical point of failure. A professional may use a scan tool to monitor the 2/4 pressure switch state in real-time to confirm the fault. Resistance checks can be performed at the connector; shift solenoids should read 1.6-1.8 ohms, while a faulty one may read much higher (e.g., 7.2 ohms).
   Typical fix: Replace the entire transmission solenoid/TRS assembly. This part is located on the front of the transmission, accessed by removing a side cover 🎬 Watch: Step-by-step guide to replacing the transmission control solenoid pack. and the bottom pan. The transmission filter and fluid should be replaced at the same time.
   Est. part cost: $150-$300
2. Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid 🟡 Medium Probability The 62TE transmission can run hot, accelerating fluid breakdown. Contaminated or low fluid can cause pressure issues and interfere with the operation of the delicate pressure switches. A leaking transmission pan gasket is a common source of fluid loss.
   How to confirm: Check the transmission fluid level and condition using the service port procedure (this transmission does not have a traditional dipstick). The fluid should be at the correct level, red in color, and not smell burnt. A user with a 2012 Grand Caravan and code P0846 was advised to check the fluid first.
   Typical fix: Perform a transmission fluid and filter change using the correct Mopar ATF+4 fluid. 🎬 See how to perform a transmission fluid and filter change. If the fluid is very dirty or burnt, the solenoid pack may already be damaged and require replacement.
   Est. part cost: $60-$120
3. Wiring Harness or Connector Issue ⚪ Low Probability
   How to confirm: Inspect the wiring harness between the PCM and the transmission solenoid pack connector for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose pins. A multimeter can be used to check for an open (resistance > 5.0 Ohms) or short (resistance < 5.0 Ohms) in the 'T47' 2/4 pressure signal circuit, as outlined in service manuals.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wiring harness or clean/replace the affected connector.
   Est. part cost: $10-$50

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM): This is very uncommon. The PCM should only be considered after all other possibilities, including wiring and the solenoid pack, have been thoroughly tested and ruled out.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check and verify the transmission fluid level and condition. Ensure it is clean and filled with Mopar ATF+4. Note that these vehicles do not have a traditional dipstick and require a special tool or procedure.
2. Use a scan tool to check for any other transmission-related DTCs, particularly other pressure switch rationality codes (P083B, P0871, P0841).
3. Inspect the transmission wiring harness and the main connector at the transmission case for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
4. Using a wiring diagram, test the '(T47) 2/4 Pressure Signal circuit' for continuity, shorts to ground, and shorts to voltage between the PCM and the transmission connector.
5. If wiring and fluid are confirmed to be good, the likely cause is the solenoid/pressure switch assembly.
6. Replace the transmission solenoid pack, along with the transmission filter and pan gasket.
7. After replacement, fill the transmission with the correct amount of ATF+4 fluid.
8. Perform a transmission 'Quick Learn' procedure with a compatible scan tool to allow the PCM to adapt to the new solenoid pack.
9. Clear all codes and perform a test drive to ensure the issue is resolved.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Transmission Solenoid Pack / Block (OEM #68376696AA (supersedes 5169313AA, 05078709AB, 68029389AA)) — This assembly contains the 2/4 pressure switch that is the root cause of the P0846 code. The switches are not serviced individually.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Dorman, Rostra
  OEM price range: $250-$400
  Aftermarket price range: $150-$250
• Automatic Transmission Filter Kit (OEM #5078555AA (Mopar)) — The filter and pan gasket must be replaced whenever the transmission pan is removed to service the solenoid pack.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Wix, ATP
  OEM price range: $30-$50
  Aftermarket price range: $15-$30
• Mopar ATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid (OEM #68218057AC (Quart), 68218058AC (Gallon)) — This is the required fluid type for the 62TE transmission. Using the wrong fluid can cause shifting problems and damage. A fluid and filter change requires approximately 5.5 quarts.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Valvoline ATF+4, Castrol ATF+4
  OEM price range: $10-$15 per quart
  Aftermarket price range: $7-$10 per quart

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0944 — P0944 indicates a loss of hydraulic prime. A failing pump or major leak could cause this along with other pressure-related codes like P0846.
• P083B — This is a rationality code for the Low/Reverse (LR) pressure switch. Since the switches are all in the same solenoid pack, it's common for multiple switch faults to appear if the pack is failing.
• P0871 — This is a rationality code for the Overdrive (OD) pressure switch. Like P083B, its presence points toward a failing solenoid pack.
• P0841 — This is a rationality code for the L/R pressure switch, similar to P083B, indicating a likely solenoid pack failure.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• Recall S44: Affects some 2015-2016 models for a transmission pump that may seize, causing a loss of hydraulic pressure and motive power. While not directly for P0846, it relates to the transmission's hydraulic system.
• Chrysler TSB 21-013-08: While not directly for P0846, this TSB addresses harsh shifting on some 2008 models with the 62TE by reprogramming the PCM. It shows that software updates can be a factor in transmission performance.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• The 62TE transmission's solenoid pack is a widely documented failure point, leading to a variety of pressure switch and shifting-related trouble codes.
• A Reddit user with a 2012 Grand Caravan at 170k miles experienced code P0846 along with a TCS light and loss of overdrive. After a fluid/filter change and solenoid pack replacement did not fix the issue, further diagnosis pointed towards a potential wiring or sensor problem, highlighting the need for proper step-by-step diagnosis.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Resistance of individual shift solenoids in the pack — expected: 1.6 to 1.8 Ohms (at approx. 70°F). Failure: A significantly different reading, such as 7.2 Ohms, indicates a failed solenoid coil.
• Resistance of pressure switch sense circuits — expected: Approximately 300 Ohms. Failure: A reading significantly higher or lower than 300 Ohms suggests a fault in the pressure switch resistor.
• Resistance of (T47) 2/4 Pressure Signal circuit (testing for open) — expected: Less than 5.0 Ohms. Failure: Resistance above 5.0 Ohms indicates an open circuit.
• Resistance of (T47) 2/4 Pressure Signal circuit (testing for short to ground) — expected: Above 5.0 Ohms. Failure: Resistance below 5.0 Ohms indicates a short to ground.
• Voltage of (T47) 2/4 Pressure Signal circuit (testing for short to voltage) — expected: Less than 0.5 Volts. Failure: Voltage above 0.5 Volts indicates the circuit is shorted to voltage.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Professional Scan Tool (e.g., Autel, wiTECH): Quick Learn — This procedure is required after replacing the solenoid pack, disconnecting the vehicle battery, or changing the transmission fluid to allow the TCM to relearn adaptive values and shift points.
• Professional Scan Tool (e.g., wiTECH): Monitor 2/4 Pressure Switch State — Used during diagnosis to view the live data from the pressure switch. The technician can observe if the switch state (Open/Closed) correctly corresponds to the current gear, confirming or denying a rationality fault.
• Transmission Simulator (Miller tool #8333) with Scan Tool: Pressure Switch Test — This is an advanced diagnostic step where a special tool manually actuates the pressure switch circuits, while the scan tool monitors if the PCM sees the state change. This definitively tests the wiring and PCM's ability to read the switch, isolating the fault to the solenoid pack if the test passes.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Solenoid Pack Connector Pin 14 — On the main 23-pin round connector for the transmission solenoid pack, located on the front of the transmission.. This is the specific pin for the '(T47) 2/4 Pressure Switch Signal' circuit that sends the pressure reading to the PCM. It is the primary point for electrical testing of this circuit.
• Solenoid Pack Connector Pin 10 — On the main 23-pin round connector for the transmission solenoid pack.. This is the common power supply pin from the transmission control relay. It is used as the reference point for resistance testing of all solenoids in the pack.
• G101 / G103 — G101 is on the left side of the engine compartment; G103 is at the left rear of the engine compartment.. These are primary engine compartment grounds. A poor ground connection at these points can cause a variety of erratic electrical issues, including incorrect sensor readings from the transmission.
• Engine/Transmission Ground Strap — A braided strap connecting the engine or transmission case to the vehicle's chassis, often near a motor mount.. These straps are known to corrode and break on Grand Caravans. A faulty ground strap can cause poor electrical return paths, leading to shifting problems and other electrical gremlins that can mimic sensor failures. Some owners add supplementary ground wires to fix these issues.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Reddit user on r/MechanicAdvice (2012 Dodge Grand Caravan with ~170,000 miles) — Check Engine Light with code P0846, steady TCS light, no overdrive (gears 1-5 only), occasional harsh shifts, and would not kick down when accelerating.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Draining and refilling the transmission fluid and replacing the filter., Replacing the entire transmission solenoid pack.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The user did not post a final fix, but the experience was a lesson in diagnostics. After replacing the two most common parts without success, the next step recommended by others was to perform detailed wiring checks between the solenoid pack and the PCM, which had been skipped. This highlights the importance of not just replacing parts.
• NHTSA ODI #10456949 — An owner of a related Chrysler vehicle with the same transmission architecture reported P0846 (Pressure Switch Rationality) alongside codes P0944 (Loss of Pump Prime) and P0838 (LC Pressure Rationality). Upon inspection, metal was found in the transmission pan, indicating internal mechanical failure.

When the Usual Fixes Don't Work

• In a case documented on Reddit, a 2012 Grand Caravan with P0846 was not fixed by the two most common solutions: a transmission fluid/filter change and a complete solenoid pack replacement. This strongly suggests that while the solenoid pack is the most probable cause, it is not guaranteed. A thorough diagnosis of the wiring harness and connectors between the transmission and the PCM is a critical step that should not be skipped, as an open or short in the T47 signal circuit will produce the same code.

OEM Part Supersession History

• Multiple older numbers including 5169313AA, 05078709AB, 68029389AA → 68376696AA — Part has been updated over the years to improve reliability, as it is a known high-failure item.
  Heads up: While physically interchangeable, using older stock or unverified aftermarket parts is risky due to the high failure rate of early designs. Always use the latest Mopar revision or a quality remanufactured unit.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• Circa 2012 and earlier: The internal 'compounder' unit of the 62TE transmission in earlier models had sealing rings that could spin and cause wear, leading to internal pressure leaks. Later models were updated with locking tabs to prevent the rings from spinning. While not a direct cause of P0846, it represents a known internal pressure-related weakness that was improved during the vehicle's production run.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Other Known Issues on This Vehicle

Issues unrelated to this code that are worth knowing about as an owner of this generation:

• Faulty Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) 🔴 High — Very common across 2008-2014 models. Can cause a wide range of electrical issues like no-start, fuel pump staying on, horn blaring, and wipers activating randomly.
• Leaking Oil Filter Housing / Oil Cooler (3.6L Pentastar) 🟠 Medium — Extremely common on models with the 3.6L Pentastar V6, typically after 80,000 miles. The original plastic housing cracks or its gaskets fail, causing oil to leak into the engine valley and down the back of the transmission.
• Premature Rocker Arm Failure (3.6L Pentastar) 🔴 High — Common on earlier (2011-2014) 3.6L engines. Worn rocker arm bearings cause a distinct 'Pentastar tick' noise, misfires, and can lead to camshaft damage if not addressed. (Ref: Extended Warranty (X56) and TSB 09-002-14 exist for related cylinder head issues on some models, but not directly for all rocker arm failures.)
• Premature Brake Wear 🟠 Medium — Widespread complaint. Owners report that the factory-sized rotors and pads wear out much faster than expected, sometimes requiring replacement annually due to undersized components for the vehicle's weight.
• Power Sliding Door Actuator/Wiring Failure 🟡 Low — Common issue where the wiring harness for the power sliding doors frays or breaks inside the track, causing the door to become inoperative or make buzzing noises.

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide for This Vehicle

When a used part is the smart pick: Almost never for the solenoid pack. This is a notoriously high-failure part on the 62TE transmission. Installing a used solenoid pack from a junkyard is extremely risky and likely to fail in a short amount of time, forcing you to do the labor-intensive job twice.

Donor-vehicle mileage cap: roughly under 50000 miles for the part to have meaningful remaining life.

What to inspect on the donor part:

• Verify the part is the latest OEM Mopar revision (68376696AA).
• Inspect the electrical connector pins for any signs of corrosion, damage, or being pushed in.
• Ask for the donor vehicle's mileage; anything over 50,000-75,000 miles is a significant gamble.

OEM-only on this vehicle (don't cheap out):

• Transmission Solenoid Pack: Strongly recommended to use a new OEM Mopar part or a high-quality remanufactured unit from a reputable brand like Sonnax or Rostra. Avoid cheap, unbranded online parts.

Aftermarket brands forum-validated for this vehicle:

• Dorman (offers remanufactured units, e.g., part 609-043)
• Rostra
• Sonnax (known for providing upgraded components to fix OEM weaknesses)

Brands owners have reported issues with on this vehicle:

• Unbranded, low-cost solenoid packs from online marketplaces are frequently cited on forums as being unreliable or failing shortly after installation.

Real Owner Stories

Aggregated from forums and TSBs cited above. Mileages and costs reflect what owners reported in those sources.

Related OBD-II Codes

• P083B — This is another pressure switch rationality code for the 62TE transmission. Diagnostic procedures recommend checking for this code alongside P0846, as they often share a common root cause like a faulty solenoid pack or wiring harness issue.
• P0871 — A companion pressure switch code. Its presence along with P0846 strongly points towards a failure of the integrated solenoid/pressure switch assembly, as multiple sensor circuits within the same part are reporting faults.
• P0841 — Another pressure switch rationality code mentioned as a common companion DTC. Like the others, it indicates a problem in the hydraulic pressure sensing circuits, making a faulty solenoid pack the primary suspect when seen with P0846.

Frequently Asked Questions