P0735

Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio

Q: Is it safe to drive with P0735?

Short trips may be fine, but slipping in 5th generates heat and accelerates wear, so drive gently and get it checked.

Q: Can I just clear P0735?

It will return until the fluid, solenoid, or internal ratio fault is corrected.

Transmission / gear ratio Generic OBD-II High

What it means

P0735 means the transmission's actual ratio in 5th gear does not match what the computer expects, based on comparing input and output speeds. It usually points to slipping from low or worn-out fluid, a faulty shift solenoid, or internal wear. The car still drives, but slipping in 5th builds heat and can worsen the damage, so it should be checked promptly.

High

Can I keep driving? Drivable short term, but the transmission may slip in 5th gear, run hot, or enter limp mode — go easy and get it checked to avoid further damage.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

155

scans in the past year

Found in

<0.1%

of scans

<0.1%

of scans that found faults

Appears alongside · share of P0735 scans

P0734in 65.2% of scans

P0732in 64.5% of scans

P0731in 60.0% of scans

Figures reflect only diagnostic scans recorded through our own apps and tools. Cars are typically scanned because a symptom or warning light prompted it, so these counts describe our scan records — not the incidence of faults in any model, and not the quality, reliability, or safety of any vehicle. No comparison between manufacturers or models is implied. All trademarks belong to their respective owners; no affiliation or endorsement is implied.

Common symptoms

What you'll notice

Check-engine light on
Slipping or flaring when shifting into 5th gear
Harsh or delayed shifts into overdrive
Transmission running hot or entering limp mode

Common causes

Most likely first

Low or contaminated transmission fluidLikely
Failed or stuck shift solenoid for 5th gearCommon
Valve-body fault causing incorrect line pressureCommon
Worn clutches, bands, or internal components, or a TCM faultLess often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Check the transmission fluid level and condition first — low or burnt fluid is a common cause.
Scan for solenoid or pressure codes stored alongside it.
Inspect the shift solenoid and valve-body circuit for faults.
If fluid and solenoids are good, internal wear is likely — seek professional diagnosis. Clear and re-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0735?+

Short trips may be fine, but slipping in 5th generates heat and accelerates wear, so drive gently and get it checked.

Can I just clear P0735?+

It will return until the fluid, solenoid, or internal ratio fault is corrected.

Read & clear P0735 yourself

Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.

▶ Get it on Google Play

✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX