P2783

Torque Converter Temperature Too High

Q: Is it safe to drive with P2783?

Only gently and briefly. Sustained high transmission temperature degrades the fluid and can permanently damage the transmission — stop, let it cool, and address the cause.

Q: Can I just clear P2783?

Clearing it doesn't lower the temperature. It will return whenever the transmission overheats again until the underlying cause is fixed.

Transmission Generic OBD-II Medium

What it means

P2783 sets when the transmission control module sees torque-converter or transmission fluid temperature above its safe limit. Overheating usually comes from low or worn-out fluid, a slipping torque-converter clutch, or heavy load with poor cooling. High heat rapidly degrades the fluid and can damage the transmission, so it's worth acting on quickly.

Medium

Can I keep driving? Ease off — high transmission temperature can cause lasting damage; stop and let it cool, avoid towing or hard driving, and fix the cause soon.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

scans in the past year

Found in

<0.1%

of scans

<0.1%

of scans that found faults

Appears alongside · share of P2783 scans

P200Ain 59.5% 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

Transmission temperature or overheat warning
Harsh, slipping, or delayed shifts
Torque-converter shudder or vibration when locking up
Reduced power or limp mode when hot
Burnt smell from the transmission fluid

Common causes

Most likely first

Low or old/degraded transmission fluidLikely
Towing, overloading, or a blocked transmission cooler restricting heat removalCommon
Failing torque-converter clutch or its lock-up (TCC) solenoid causing slipCommon
Internal clutch wear or slippage generating excess heatLess often
Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor reading highLess often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Let the transmission cool, then check fluid level and condition (color/smell).
Inspect the transmission cooler and airflow for restriction or blockage.
Scan for torque-converter clutch codes (e.g. P0741) that point to TCC slip.
Test the TCC solenoid and command lock-up with a scan tool.
If fluid is burnt or contaminated, service or rebuild the transmission before further damage.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P2783?+

Only gently and briefly. Sustained high transmission temperature degrades the fluid and can permanently damage the transmission — stop, let it cool, and address the cause.

Can I just clear P2783?+

Clearing it doesn't lower the temperature. It will return whenever the transmission overheats again until the underlying cause is fixed.

Read & clear P2783 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