42RLE Solenoid Kit 2003, new and ready to install. Fits the 42RLE. Ships fast from the USA.
A 2003 Jeep Liberty or other early 42RLE application that suddenly starts out in second, refuses to upshift past second, and lights the check engine lamp with a solenoid or pressure switch code is usually telling you the solenoid and pressure switch block has failed. This 2003 kit is listed as new Mopar-branded, and the photo shows the solenoid block with its case connector, an input and an output speed sensor, a pan filter and a pan gasket, so the whole pan-down service can be done in one job instead of three.
The 42RLE is the rear-drive, longitudinal member of the Chrysler 41TE family. Sonnax groups it on the same valve body branch as the 40TE, 41TE and 42LE, and it shifts the same way: there are no bands, so every gear change is one clutch releasing while another applies, timed entirely by the transmission controller. The solenoid block bolts to the valve body inside the pan and holds the shift solenoids that send oil to the clutches, plus the pressure switches that report back to the computer that each clutch actually applied. The two speed sensors give the computer input and output shaft speed, which it uses to calculate gear ratio and to learn clutch fill (the Clutch Volume Index, or CVI). If a solenoid sticks, a switch reads wrong, or a sensor drops out, the controller cannot confirm the gear and drops into its default second-gear limp mode to protect the unit.
Scan for codes first and write them all down. A solenoid circuit code with clean, full fluid points straight at the block or its connector. A gear ratio code with high CVI numbers points at a worn clutch pack instead, and a new solenoid kit will not fix that. Our 41TE/A604 Ultradrive problems guide walks through reading CVIs and through the solenoid switch valve bore wear that sets torque converter clutch and switch valve codes on this family. If the complaint is slipping under throttle rather than limp mode, read our slipping-under-load guide first, because a worn pressure regulator bore can imitate a failing solenoid.
This listing is for the 42RLE as built for the 2003 model year, the first year of the 42RLE. Chrysler revised the block several times over the production run, including variable line pressure versions on later units, so a block that looks the same can be wired or calibrated differently. Compare the part number on your old block to the listing, or send us your year and VIN before ordering and we will confirm it. You can see every 41TE-family part, including the other 42RLE solenoid listings, on our 41TE/A604 and 42RLE parts page.
Drain the fluid, drop the pan and pull the old filter. Unplug the case connector, unbolt the block from the valve body and lift it straight off so you do not bend the solenoid screens. Check the case connector pins and harness for heat damage before fitting the new block, because a corroded pin will set the same codes on a brand-new part. Install the new speed sensors with fresh O-rings, fit the new filter and pan gasket, and torque the pan evenly. Refill with ATF+4 only; generic multi-vehicle fluid changes the clutch apply feel this controller is calibrated for. Clear codes and run the quick learn with a scan tool, then drive it through every gear so the adaptives settle. If the transmission has high miles and the codes were ratio related, budget for the 42RLE overhaul kit for 2003-2011, and if you only need the pan service parts later, the 42RLE filter and pan gasket kit is sold on its own.
| Fits | 42RLE 2003 |
| Part type | Solenoid Kit |
| Condition | New |
| Brand | Mopar |
| Ships | From the USA |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Doing this repair right usually means replacing these at the same time. Same transmission, ships together.
Possibly, but do not assume it. Chrysler revised the 42RLE solenoid block during production, so match the number on your old block or send us your year and VIN and we will confirm before it ships.
The photo shows the solenoid and pressure switch block, an input speed sensor, an output speed sensor, a pan filter and a pan gasket. If your old sensors test fine you can keep them as spares.
If limp mode is caused by a solenoid, pressure switch or speed sensor fault, yes. If the codes are gear ratio errors with high CVI numbers, the clutches are worn and the transmission needs an overhaul instead.
ATF+4 only. Refill to the correct level hot, then clear codes and perform the quick learn so the controller relearns clutch fill times.
Yes. Clear the codes and run the quick learn procedure with a scan tool that supports Chrysler transmission functions, then drive through all gears so the adaptives update.
