P0748: Pressure Control Solenoid A Electrical
What Does P0748 Mean?
P0748 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Pressure Control Solenoid A Electrical. This code relates to the transmission system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 1 different vehicle models.
The automatic transmission is controlled by the TCM using input from speed sensors, temperature sensors, and pressure sensors. When the TCM detects a fault, it may activate limp mode (2nd or 3rd gear only). Shift solenoids are electromagnetic valves inside the valve body controlling hydraulic fluid flow. Modern transmissions use 4-8 solenoids in combination for each gear. Solenoid failures are often caused by contaminated fluid — worn clutch material and degraded fluid create varnish that sticks solenoids. Always check transmission fluid first: level, color (red/pink good, brown/black bad), and smell (burnt = internal damage). Transmission DTCs escalate fast — a $200 solenoid fix can become a $3000-$5000 rebuild if ignored.
Symptoms of P0748
- ⚠️ Check engine/transmission warning light on
- ⚠️ Harsh, delayed, or erratic shifting
- ⚠️ Transmission stuck in one gear (limp mode)
- ⚠️ No upshift or no downshift
- ⚠️ Transmission slipping
- ⚠️ RPM flares between shifts
Common Causes
- 🔍 Faulty shift solenoid
- 🔍 Contaminated transmission fluid
- 🔍 Wiring issue between TCM and solenoid
- 🔍 Valve body wear
- 🔍 TCM internal failure
P0748 Reports by Year
Real Owner Reports
From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.
"WHILE DRIVING ALONG A RURAL ROAD AT 50 TO 55 MPH, ON FIVE SEPARATE OCCASIONS OVER THE LAST 3 YEARS, OUR 2011 KIA SORENTO HAS SUDDENLY AND HARSHLY DOWNSHIFTED FROM SIXTH GEAR TO ABOUT FOURTH GEAR. WHEN THIS OCCURS, THE JAR IS SIMILAR TO HAVING HIT A LARGE ANIMAL IN THE ROAD AND THE ENTIRE CAR SHAKES"
— Kia Sorento owner, 04/30/2016
"WHILE COMING TO A STOP, THE VEHICLE DOWN-SHIFTED HARD AND THE ENGINE STARTED TO SPUTTER LIKE IT WAS GOING TO CUT OFF. TOOK TO DEALER AND THEY FOUND P0748- PRESSURE CONTROL SOLENOID "A" ELECTRICAL FAULT. THEY PERFORMED A REPROGRAM OF TSM PER TSB# TRA038. DROVE OFF LOT AND IT SHIFTED HARD THREE TIMES "
— Kia Sorento owner, 06/04/2011
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Most Reported Vehicles for P0748
Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
| # | Vehicle | Reports |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | KIA SORENTO |
P0748 Reports by Vehicle
Detailed NHTSA complaint analysis for each vehicle model.
Diagnostic Tips
- Check fluid level and condition FIRST
- Multiple codes suggest valve body or internal damage
- Monitor solenoid duty cycle with scan tool
- Solenoids often accessible by removing pan
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Replacing solenoid without flushing contaminated fluid
- ❌ Using aftermarket fluid instead of manufacturer-specified
- ❌ Driving in limp mode for extended periods
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a shift solenoid?
Can I drive in limp mode?
How much for solenoid replacement?
Can fluid change fix it?
What To Do Next
Possible Fixes
- 🔧 Replace shift solenoid or pack
- 🔧 Transmission fluid flush with manufacturer fluid
- 🔧 Repair wiring to transmission
- 🔧 Replace valve body
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1
Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
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2
Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
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Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.