1999 to 2018 Chrysler, Dodge, RAM and Jeep vehicles equipped with 45RFE, 545RFE, 65RFE, 66RFE and 68RFE can develop excessive wear at the Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) regulator valve bore in the pump.

The TCC regulator valve regulates the converter clutch apply pressure in both partial (EMCC) and in full lock-up mode. The computer varies the pulse width modulation of the LR/CC solenoid to regulate the apply pressure of the lock-up clutch. Because of the constant PWM solenoid induced oscillation, over time, excessive wear of the bore can occur.

On one hand, if the TCC regulator valve bore wear is severe enough at the spring end of the valve, it can result in erratic or high TCC apply pressure as the balance oil pressure meant to assist the spring force ends up leaking to the sump. As a result, the transmission can have harsh lock-up apply.

On the other hand, in the case where the bore wear is most prevalent at the opposite end of the valve, the leak in this area would cause low TCC apply pressure due to the loss of signal oil from the LR/CC solenoid. With the loss of solenoid signal oil there is little to no influence on the converter pressure regulator valve to increase converter apply pressure. In cases like this the transmission can have excessive lock-up slip and set lock-up performance codes.