P2741 indicates the transmission control module has detected an irrational or out-of-range signal from the transmission fluid temperature sensor B. This sensor monitors fluid temperature to optimize shift quality and protect the transmission from overheating. The code sets when the sensor voltage or resistance falls outside calibrated limits or does not change as expected during operation.
The sensor element itself has degraded or failed, producing a signal that does not correspond to actual fluid temperature.
Chafed, cut, or pinched wires, or a damaged connector, create an open or high-resistance path that skews the sensor signal.
A short circuit pulls the sensor signal voltage high or low, causing the TCM to read an impossible temperature value.
Corrosion or a loose terminal adds resistance or intermittent contact, leading to erratic or out-of-range readings.
Internal TCM circuitry that processes the sensor signal may be damaged, though this is less common than sensor or wiring faults.
On vehicles where the TCM is integrated into the PCM, a module failure could cause this code, but it is the least likely cause and should be considered only after all other possibilities are eliminated.
Not recommended; the transmission may enter limp mode, shift harshly, or overheat due to incorrect temperature data.
Rarely; the sensor or its wiring is the most common cause. PCM replacement is almost never the correct fix unless all other possibilities are eliminated.
Yes, incorrect fluid temperature data can prevent torque converter lockup and cause inefficient shift scheduling, reducing fuel economy.
Only if the sensor is contaminated by debris; a fluid change alone will not repair a faulty sensor or wiring issue.