P0736 Code: Reverse Incorrect Gear Ratio

A check engine light can be caused by many different issues inside your vehicle. Use a scan tool to identify whether there are error codes that have been stored. These can help you determine the cause of your check engine light. If the P0736 code has been stored, this article will inform you about the code’s definition and common causes and symptoms.

What Does the P0736 Code Mean? 

Diagnostic trouble code P0736 is defined as Reverse Incorrect Gear Ratio. This code can trigger when the transmission has a problem shifting into the reverse gear. It can also trigger when a transmission-related problem occurs while driving in reverse. The P0736 code is particular to automatic transmission vehicles because shifting into reverse relies on using mechanical components like the low-reverse clutch and shift solenoids.

The powertrain control module (PCM) or the transmission control module (TCM) analyzes data from the transmission speed sensors to determine the gear ratio and the amount of slippage. The P0736 code is triggered when the TCM or PCM perceives a problem with reverse gear based on that data.

Note: The definition of the P0736 code can be different depending on the vehicle manufacturer. Consult the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.

What are the Common Causes of the P0736 Code?

The issues that trigger the P0736 code can be caused by the following problems:

• Internal transmission failure
• Insufficient transmission fluid
• Dirty transmission fluid
• Faulty PCM
• Faulty TCM
• Failed Transmission valve body
• Faulty shift solenoid

What are the Common Symptoms of the P0736 Code?

Your vehicle might exhibit the following symptoms if the P0736 code has been triggered:

• Illuminated check engine light
• Transmission refuses to shift into reverse
• Transmission slips out of reverse
• Transmission slipping
• Increased fuel consumption

How to Diagnose the P0736 Code

The P0736 code is a generic OBD-II powertrain code that can trigger in many vehicle makes and models. Diagnosing the cause of this code isn’t straightforward because vehicle designs and specifications vary. While this code is known to be commonly caused by specific issues, you should still conduct a proper inspection before reaching a conclusion.

When it comes to troubleshooting any trouble code, always remember that procedures vary depending on vehicle specifications. If you aren’t familiar with the troubleshooting process, ask a trained mechanic to do the job for you.

How to Fix the P0736 Code

Fixing the issues that trigger the P0736 code can be quite difficult if you don’t have the right tools and knowledge because this code involves parts that are difficult to access. It might be more convenient to simply bring your vehicle to your local mechanic for repairs.

However, if you think you have the right knowledge and tools, then follow the appropriate steps and protocols.

Remember that there isn’t a universal solution that can fix a trouble code in all vehicle models. Even mechanics sometimes rely on knowledge banks and online resources before making repairs. Chilton guides or an ALLDATA subscription contain vehicle-specific repair information, so you might want to check these out before starting the repair process.