Error Code P076F is defined as Gear 7 Incorrect Ratio. This is a generic trouble code, meaning it applies to all vehicles with the OBD-II system, especially those made since 1996 up to present and equipped with automatic transmission. Modern vehicles with automatic transmission/transaxles use torque converter between its engine and the transmission to improve the torque output of the engine and drive the rear wheels.

Error Code P076F shows up when the vehicle determines a problem in shifting to 7th gear, or while driving at 7th gear. The automatic transmission (which is controlled by the computer) uses multiple gear ratios to determine the right gear, increase speed, and maximize the engine’s power output. The computer also determines when to shift up or down based on the throttle position in relation to the speed of the vehicle. Newer vehicle models have more than four gears for more efficient fuel consumption.

The powertrain control module (PCM), engine control module (ECM), or the transmission control module (TCM) uses input from multiple different sensors to verify the appropriate operation for the transmission and its related components. Engine speed is calculated with the transmission speed sensor to know the right gear ratio and torque converter slip. If the calculation was unable to match the desired value, then this error code will show up, which will simultaneously activate the Check Engine light. Incorrect ratio code usually requires advanced mechanical knowledge and diagnostic tools.

This code is similar to:

Common Symptoms

  • Delayed shift or not shifting in fifth gear
  • Sluggish acceleration
  • Increase in fuel consumption
  • Transmission slipping

Possible Causes

  • Dirty or low transmission fluid
  • Internal blockage inside transmission main control
  • Mechanical failure inside transmission
  • Defective shift solenoid
  • Defective transmission control module

How to Check

When diagnosing this code, make sure you check the fluid level and its condition. Dirty or improper fluid level can cause shifting problems that may affect multiple gears. If there is only one incorrect ratio code shown, then take the vehicle for a test drive to determine which gear is working properly.

The solenoid uses fluid pressure to control the transmission of internal clutches and bands. If there are any electrical problems within the shift solenoid, then a code specific to that problem will appear. Make sure to correct the electrical problem before proceeding any further. Blocked fluid passage inside the transmission can also keep the vehicle from starting at 1st gear if there are multiple incorrect ratio codes, but the transmission works as expected, then there could be a mechanical problem within the torque converter or transmission main control, or there could be some pressure problems.

If there are multiple incorrect ratio codes and shift issues, but not all are shown, the fault may be a mechanical issue inside the transmission, fluid pressure, or blockage of passage in the main control. Fluid pressure problem or internal blockage can also lead to problems in the shift solenoid that controls multiple gears. If there is an electrical problem with the solenoid that controls the gears, a code should be displayed specific to the solenoid at fault.

In some cases, an advanced diagnostic scan tool may be necessary to determine which gear is being commanded by the transmission, and to find out if the engine speed matches the calculated output speed from the transmission sensor.

Advanced knowledge on transmission operation and overhaul is a plus to thoroughly and efficiently diagnose and repair this type of malfunction. And with that, consulting with the factory service manual for the specific diagnostic procedure is extremely important.

How to Fix

Depending on the diagnosis, common repairs for this code include:

  • Changing the dirty transmission fluid
  • Replacement of defective shit solenoid
  • Replacement or reprogramming of defective TCM
  • Replacement or faulty wiring and connectors in the damaged transmission control circuit

Engine misfire or problems within the vehicle’s driveline are the most common misdiagnosis for this error code. If the system is not thoroughly diagnoses, then the problem could also look like an internal transmission issue, when it’s a more straightforward and less expensive problem.