OBD2 Error Code P0733: How to Fix It

Medium 2-4 hours High Severity Verified June 2026
Error Code
P0733
Brand
OBD2
Product Type
automotive
Severity
High
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
2-4 hours
Error code P0733 indicates your vehicle's transmission is not shifting into third gear properly, with the actual gear ratio not matching what the engine control module expects. This transmission issue can cause poor acceleration, rough shifting, and potential transmission damage if left unaddressed.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code P0733

  1. Check transmission fluid level and condition

    Engine should be running and transmission warm when checking fluid level. Be careful around moving engine parts.
  2. Scan for additional error codes

  3. Perform transmission fluid and filter change

    Use only the exact transmission fluid type specified in your owner's manual. Wrong fluid can cause severe damage.
  4. Check transmission control module connections

    Disconnect battery before handling electrical connections to prevent short circuits.
  5. Test drive and monitor

    If transmission slips, makes grinding noises, or fails to shift, stop driving immediately to prevent further damage.

Parts You May Need

Transmission fluid
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Transmission filter
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Transmission pan gasket
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Transmission fluid
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Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission pan gasket
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission pan gasket
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission pan gasket
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission pan gasket
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission pan gasket
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission pan gasket
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission pan gasket
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission pan gasket
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission pan gasket
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission pan gasket
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission pan gasket
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission pan gasket
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional

If fluid and filter changes don't resolve the issue, or if you find multiple transmission codes, internal transmission components like solenoids, valve body, or clutch packs likely need repair or replacement by a transmission specialist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes OBD2 error code P0733?
P0733 is typically caused by low or dirty transmission fluid, faulty shift solenoids, worn clutch packs, a malfunctioning valve body, or internal transmission mechanical problems affecting third gear engagement.
Can I drive with error code P0733?
You should avoid driving with P0733 as it indicates transmission problems that can worsen quickly. If you must drive, avoid highway speeds and get to a repair shop as soon as possible to prevent costly transmission damage.
How much does it cost to fix P0733?
Repair costs range from $150-300 for fluid and filter changes to $1500-3000 for internal transmission repairs or rebuilds, depending on the root cause and extent of damage.
Will P0733 clear itself?
P0733 will not clear itself and requires diagnosis and repair. The underlying transmission problem will persist and likely worsen until properly addressed by replacing failed components or performing transmission service.