Six months ago the TL-S began throwing the P0740 code along with dash warning lights. Transmission had been overhauled 60K miles previously. I changed trans fluid, and replaced the solenoids. 3,000 miles later, code is still triggered but there has been no adverse degradation of the transmission; the car seems to be running fine. I'm looking for ideas on what could be causing the code condition, I'd like to repair what seems to be an otherwise working transmission.

Perhaps its an electrical wiring fault, any guidance on inspecting or testing the wiring harness would be appreciated.

[Background, the original catalytic converter was stolen and replaced 3,000 miles prior to the P0740 code. Would the aftermarket Flowmaster catalytic and 02 sensor have any bearing on the P0740 code?]

Rus

 

The attached displays what the Helms says to test for regarding P0740.
Just make sure to have the below on hand:
Torque converter clutch solenoid valve
A/T clutch pressure control solenoid valve C
Click on the P0740 'tag' to instantly find more threads regarding this code.
Good Luck.

 

I looked at the PDF that was attached. It says step "2. Measure the line pressure (see page 14-120)" The Acura Service Manual indicates this requires special tools. Any thoughts on how to do this at home?

 

Other than taking it to the dealership or transmission shop, I don't know of any place that would rent said equipment.
Hopefully, someone else will comment indicating otherwise.

While I commend your wanting to repair the transmission via testing if possible, when one reads-up on past threads here regarding the P0740 code, it pretty much indicates that the factory transmission is failing.

With that said, there is an updated transmission alternative if you want to keep the car. You can 'swap' in a non-hybrid 06-07 Honda Accord V6 automatic that will bolt up to your 2G TL-S J32A2 engine with minor component swaps.

Following the attached instructions, other forum members have performed this swap with success and have gone on to salvage their beloved automatic 2G CL-S'; 2G TL-S' and a few 3G TL's as well.

P.S.
There appears to be a 2007 93K mile AV6 trans available, in WA state, at D&S Light Truck Auto parts 5403 Dike Road
Longview, WA 98632 for $950. Search car-part.com nationwide for your AV6 trans. should you decide on this 'swap' route.

 

This is not the factory transmission. The transmission was rebuilt in 2010 by TopTech in Edmonton, and they made some modifications to the factory specs (for longevity). That rebuild lasted 7 years (2017) before it left me on the side of the freeway—the same shop ‘overhauled’ it with a new torque converter and filter. It was running fine until Nov. 2021 when the P0740 code started. By this time the car had been passed down to a family member attending college, so my access to doing repair work was limited to “home from college” weekends. The car has been running fine the whole time the P0740 code has been lit.

Now, I’ve been given the car back. Wheel-well rust on the rear passenger side means it is not going to be a survivor. I drive a CLS-6 now, so don’t need the TL. Thought about selling it, but in good conscience I don’t see it having any worthwhile resale value. Thought about driving it as my commuter (30 miles to sit all-day at the ‘Park n Ride’) less miles on the CLS-6, and risk of vandalism.

I’d like to hear some opinions on what I should do with it.

 

Yeah, I heard a similar story from a previous owner, regarding his S/C'd automatic 03 CL-S, during his sales pitch to me in 2019. After I purchased the car, it is now a non-supercharged heavy cruising beater, with the same dreadful rebuilt factory transmission.

IMHO, if the transmission is not coded BAYA, like the 06-07 AV6 trans, one is living on borrowed time, lol.

It's primarily used when I don't feel like rowing gears in my S/C'd CL-S6, as I patiently wait for the fiendish P0740.

 

AV6 or bust. Master thread here as well: https://acurazine.com/forums/second-...n-swap-905115/


I'd say if you've gotten 12 years out of that rebuilt transmissions, it's done its job..

 

The TL-S owes me nothing, but I don’t want to put anymore money into it (at least not more than a couple hundred dollars), as I said it has rust issues. Don’t want to junk it, its running well. Won’t get much if I sell it. Is there any value to parting it out?

 

Sure, there is value.
If you have a Facecreep login, google 'Acura TL/CL 2nd Gen Page' & put it up for sale.
Some local Frankenstein civic swapper may need a good running J32A2 et al.
There are at least two individuals, the last time I looked, in your very same predicament.
Good Luck.

 

i mean, have you seen used car pricing lately? You know your budgetary constraints better than I do but even if you put in 1k - 2k on a AV6 swap in and get a few more years of driving , seems like a great value.

 

seems like more headache than it's worth to keep auto.
6spd conversion or get another car.