Transmission code
P0731: First gear ratio incorrect
How much to fix P0731? Typically $290–$1,200.
Wide range: this job varies a lot. Itemize your quote for a better answer.
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $60 | $400 |
| Labor: 2 to 5 hours × $110 to $150 an hour | $220 | $750 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $15 | $40 |
| Total, rounded | $290 | $1,200 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in the US, $27.13 an hour, times 4 to 5.5 to cover what a shop bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Parts are a band from budget aftermarket to the manufacturer part. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your car, parts and shop change the number.
This is the range for the most common fix, transmission solenoid replacement. Which repair your car needs depends on a proper diagnosis.
The computer compares the speed of the engine side of the transmission with the output shaft and, in first gear, the ratio is wrong. That usually means the clutch that applies first gear is slipping, so the engine revs up without moving the car as much as it should.
- Safe to drive?
- No, get it looked at first
- Most common cause
- Low or worn fluid
Avoid driving. Slipping burns the clutches quickly.
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What you may notice
- Engine revs without speed
- Harsh engagement
- Delay in drive
- Check-engine light
Common causes, most likely first
- Low or worn fluid
- Failed shift solenoid
- Worn clutch pack
- Valve body problem
Check this first
Check the fluid level and color if your car has a dipstick. Low, dark or burnt-smelling fluid hints at slipping clutches. Note when it happens, such as only when cold or only on pull-away, and tell the shop.
Other repairs that sometimes fix P0731
| Repair | Typical range, US |
|---|---|
| Transmission fluid service | $140 to $480 |
| Transmission rebuild or replacement | $2,950 to $6,400 |
Before you pay
- Ask the shop what test showed this part is the cause, not just that the code appeared.
- Ask for parts and labor listed separately, and for the hours.
- Ask for a written OK before any extra work. Many states require written authorization before repairs.
Got a quote already? Check it against the range. Want to see if your car has a recall tied to this problem? Check recalls by VIN.
Need to read a code yourself? OBD-II scanners on eBay (affiliate link, disclosure).
P0731 questions
Rebuild?
If the clutches are worn, a rebuild may be needed. But a slip in first can also come from low fluid or a weak solenoid, so the cheaper causes get tested before talking about a rebuild.
Fluid?
Check it first. Low fluid is a simple fix, and fresh fluid of the right type can sometimes restore pressure. Wrong fluid can hurt the transmission, so use only what your manual lists.
Cost?
The cost range is wide because it depends on the cause. A solenoid or fluid service is modest, while a clutch pack rebuild is large. Ask for a written diagnosis before agreeing to the bigger job.
How much does it cost to fix P0731?
The most common fix, transmission solenoid replacement, has a typical range of $290 to $1,200 across the US. It is an estimate built from parts prices and local labor wages, not a quote. Your car and shop change it.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $320 to $1,325 |
| New York City area | $310 to $1,275 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $310 to $1,300 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $300 to $1,225 |
| Houston area, Texas | $280 to $1,175 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $280 to $1,175 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $290 to $1,200 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $300 to $1,225 |
| Miami area, Florida | $280 to $1,200 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $320 to $1,300 |
More transmission codes
Code meaning written in our own words. Some codes mean different things on different makes, so check your scan tool or manual. Not a repair shop, estimates only.