Torque Converter Clutch System Stuck in Off Position
2011-2015 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6
Description
The TCC system is stuck in the off/disengaged position. The torque converter clutch will not engage, leading to reduced fuel efficiency and increased transmission temperature on highway driving. Ford TSB exists for 1996-2003 Taurus and Windstar.
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light
- Poor highway fuel economy
- Higher-than-normal RPM at highway speed
- Transmission overheating
- Transmission may enter limp mode
- Shuddering at highway speeds
Common Causes
- Faulty TCC solenoid (most common)
- TCC control valve stuck in pump body
- Worn torque converter clutch friction material
- Low or contaminated transmission fluid
- Debris in transmission fluid
- Worn seals on input shaft
- Damaged valve body gaskets
Diagnostic Steps
- Check transmission fluid level and condition
- Test TCC solenoid resistance
- Monitor TCC commanded vs actual engagement on scan tool
- Check transmission fluid temperature
- Check line pressure
- Look for Ford TSBs specific to your model year
Repair Notes
Service transmission fluid and filter first. Replace TCC solenoid. If issue persists, TCC control valve (in pump body) or torque converter may need replacement — trans must come out.
Related Codes
Other Powertrain Codes
- P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
- P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
- P0002Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0002Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0003Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
- P0003Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
- P0004Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
- P0004Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
- P0010Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0010Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
P1744 on Other Vehicles
Common Questions
What does code P1744 mean on a 2011-2015 Ford Explorer?
P1744 stands for "Torque Converter Clutch System Stuck in Off Position". The TCC system is stuck in the off/disengaged position. The torque converter clutch will not engage, leading to reduced fuel efficiency and increased transmission temperature on highway driving. Ford TSB exists for 1996-2003 Taurus and Windstar.
What are the symptoms of P1744 on a Ford Explorer?
Common symptoms of P1744 include: Check Engine Light, Poor highway fuel economy, Higher-than-normal RPM at highway speed, Transmission overheating, Transmission may enter limp mode, Shuddering at highway speeds.
What causes P1744 on a 2011-2015 Ford Explorer?
Common causes of P1744 include: Faulty TCC solenoid (most common), TCC control valve stuck in pump body, Worn torque converter clutch friction material, Low or contaminated transmission fluid, Debris in transmission fluid, Worn seals on input shaft, Damaged valve body gaskets.