Hello All,
I have a 2003 Saturn Ion, and I'm getting a transmission code P0741
which is 'Torque converter clutch circuit performance / stuck off'.

The car has the 5 speed automatic, which Saturn seems to have listed as the M43.

I believe it is the same transmission as the AF23.

From what I've been reading, it sounds like it could be one of the shift solenoids.

Does anyone know how I could go about testing them,
or how to diagnose what the problem is?

I have a Chilton manual for the car, but it says to take any internal transmission
problems to the dealer.

Thanks.

 

You might look up a guy on youtube by the name if richpin. He's got a lot of various videos of how to fix a lot of different things on different cars.

 

May be able to find GM or All Data manuals at the library, and in most cases they will let you make copies of everything you need.

 

I see saturnfans was of no help to you?

 

Thanks.

With all the problems people have with the CVT in Ions, no one has too much to say about the AF23. I've seen the videos on solenoid replacement, and it doesn't seem too bad, but I'd like to make sure that's the problem before I start tearing things apart.

I've even read one thread where someone said their P0741 code was caused by a bad transmission temperature sensor. I don't think my problem is anything like that, I think I can hear at least one of the solenoids click when I shift to reverse, or low. It goes fine in reverse when I first shift into it, but then starts to slip after about 6 feet.

I'll check the local library to see if they have Alldata access.

 

Also check and see if they have the GM service manual for your car. The GM manual is by far the best.



Remember

 

I feel kind of dumb.
My mother was a librarian for for 40+ years, and I never checked the library.
My local county library has Alldata access, and the 2003 Ion Haynes manual.
Then I checked the other 2 counties I drive through on my way to work.
The one in the middle has Alldata access, but not much else.
Then I checked the county I work in.
They have the full 3 volume set of GM manuals for the 2003 Ion.
I won't be able to get down there for at least a week,
but I've really got to thank you guys for suggesting checking there.

Thanks again.
-Mark

 

Now the work begins.