The P0705 code is a generic trouble code that can show in only some specific cars manufactured in 1996 and onward. This code triggers as the transmission range sensor of your vehicle doesn’t send correct data to the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM). This article explains the P0705 code meaning, causes, symptoms, and how to fix it.
P0705 Code Definition
The P0705 code stands for “Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction (PRNDL Input).”
What does the P0705 code mean?
The P0705 code is triggered when the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM) of your vehicle detects an issue with the transmission range sensor.
The transmission range sensor (TRS) is also known as a pressure switch, Park Neutral Position switch (PNP), gear selection switch, or PRNDL input switch. The main function of the transmission range sensor is to measure the position of the shift lever and send this information to the PCM or TCM.
The TCM uses the data of the transmission range sensor to ensure that the transmission can only be shifted into particular gear positions when the vehicle is in a safe condition. In this way, this sensor helps to avoid unintentional shifting.
The TRS is most commonly located on the outside of the transmission. However, in the case of some vehicles, it is located inside of the transmission on the valve body.
The DTC P0705 is set when the powertrain control module doesn’t get sufficient input from the transmission range sensor. This code may also trigger if the PCM is getting an input that is logically impossible. For example, if your vehicle is traveling at 50 MPH, but the TRS is telling the PCM that it is in Reverse, then your PCM will immediately trigger the code P0705.
In some cases, the TRS fails until it tells the PCM that it is in multiple gears at the same time. In this case, code P0705 will trigger.
Working of Transmission Range Sensor
The primary function of the transmission range sensor is to record the transmission speed and shift lever position. The transmission speed is needed by the TCM for regulating the shifting pressure while shifting gears and for deciding which gear requires to be engaged at which point.
By using the information of the transmission range sensor, the PCM or TCM can detect when the clutch is engaged or disengaged. It can also read the RPM. After obtaining all these pieces of information, a TCM performs a certain function based on user feedback.
Symptoms of the P0705 Code
A P0705 trouble code may cause performance problems that the driver would notice.
Below are the common symptoms of the P0705 code:
- Check Engine Light illumination
- No start condition
- The vehicle starts with the gear selector in a position other than park or neutral
- Delayed shifting
- Failure to put the vehicle into gears
- Erratic dash indicators (PRNDL)
- Reverse lights don’t switch on
- Hard to shift the gears
Causes of P0705 Code
The P0705 code is triggered due to one or more of the following causes:
- Defective shift linkage
- Contaminated transmission fluid
- Corrode, worn, or damaged transmission range sensor wiring or connectors.
- Poorly installed transmission range sensor
- Insufficient transmission fluid
- An issue with the PCM
- Issues with the TCM
- Faulty or damaged transmission range sensor
- Damaged transmission valve body
Read More: Causes and Symptoms of Transmission Fluid Leak
P0705 Code Diagnostic Mistakes
- Overlooking the inspection of the transmission fluid
- Failing to check for other codes
- Overlooking the transmission range sensor wiring
- Ignoring the transmission range sensor adjustment
- Not clearing the trouble codes properly
- Replacing the unnecessary parts
- Replacing parts without proper diagnosis
How to diagnose the P0705 Code?
You must have the following tools to fix or diagnose the P0705 code:
- Electrical Contact Cleaner
- Diagnostic OBD Scan Tool
- Auto Repair Manual
- Multimeter
- Basic Hand Tools
Follow the below-given steps to diagnose the P0705 code:
- Use an OBD-II scan tool to ensure the existence of P0705 and other trouble codes. Clear the codes and take your vehicle for a test drive. If the P0705 code returns, move forward for further inspection.
- Check the new freeze frame data to find the new codes.
- Inspect the system for transmission fluid leaks.
- Visually inspect your transmission range sensors for a fault.
- You can reference the service manual with an external sensor to ensure it is properly adjusted.
- Inspect the wiring of the TRS. Repair any damaged wires or re-establish the connection if there is a problem.
- Test the resistance of the transmission range sensor’s terminals using a multimeter. Each shift lever position contains a different standard resistance.
- Properly examine the tail tight.
- Use a scan tool to test the voltage of the transmission range sensor.
- Examine the change in voltage on the ground wire corresponding to each selector lever position.
- Properly inspect the shift linkage and the gear selector mechanism.
- Check the transmission fluid level. Low transmission fluid may also trigger the P0705 code.
- Inspect the transmission control module (TCM) for an issue.
- After all the necessary repairs, clear the codes and perform a test drive.
How serious is the P0705 Code?
P0705 trouble code is not too damagingly serious, except that you won’t be able to pass inspection with a Check Engine Light. This code may lead to no start condition along with the Check Engine Light. Your car may also go into emergency mode and cannot exceed a speed of over 40 MPH. With this code, you won’t be able to easily shift your car’s gears.
What repairs can fix the P0705 Code?
Here are some of the major common fixes to consider:
- Clean and re-establish the connection of the external TRS
- Replace the bad transmission range sensor
- Replace defective wiring to the transmission range selector circuit
- Adjust shift linkage
- Repairing the transmission fluid leaks
- Replace bad valve body
- Replacing a faulty TCM or ECM
- Changing the dirty transmission fluid
- Adding more transmission fluid if needed
- Replace the transmission filter
P0705 Code Repair Cost
When it comes to making repairs associated with the P0705 code, one or more of the below repairs may be needed to solve the underlying issue. For each possible repair, the estimated cost of repair includes the cost of the relevant parts and the cost of labor required to make the repair.
| Parts | Cost |
|---|---|
| Transmission Range Sensor Adjustment | $90 |
| Valve body repair | $410 to $1100 |
| Transmission range sensor replacement | $90 to $360 |
| Transmission replacement | $1700 to $4600 |
| Tail Lamp Assembly replacement | $190 to $2100 |
| Wiring replacement/repair | $90 to $1100 |
How To Prevent P0705 Code?
Follow the following control measures to prevent your car from triggering the P0705 engine code:
- Regular maintenance of your transmission system
- Ensure the sufficient level of clean transmission fluid in your vehicle
- Avoid aggressive driving
- Avoid overloading
- Regular inspection of your vehicle for transmission fluid leaks
- Ensure the proper cleaning of the wires connected to the transmission range sensor
- After replacing the transmission range sensor, ensure that it is properly adjusted
- Always use quality parts and fluids
FAQ Section
What happens when your transmission range sensor goes out?
The Transmission Range Sensor tells the PCM the position of the transmission shifter. The PCM uses this information to control which gears of the transmission to enable or disable. When the TR sensor fails, it can cause wrong gear starts, no upshifts, or what feels like a falling-out-of-gear condition.
Can I drive with a P0705 Code?
The severity level of the P0705 code is considered to be moderate. Therefore, you can drive your car with the P0705 code for a short time. Extended driving with this code can badly damage the internal parts of your car engine. You can most commonly drive your vehicle with the P0705 code, but with significant performance problems; therefore, it is strongly not recommended.
How long does it take to change a TR sensor?
It takes about 2-3 hours for the transmission range sensor to be replaced by a professional. If the sensor is in the transmission, the repair may take longer as the mechanic will have to disassemble and reassemble it.
Is the transmission range sensor the same as the neutral safety switch?
The Neutral Safety Switch and the Transmission Range Sensor are protection devices used to prevent starter operation in all gears other than Park and Neutral. The sensors are a member of the starter control circuit and inform the TCM of the current gear selection.
How many transmission speed sensors are used in a car?
A car has two speed sensors: the ISS and the OSS, working together to show the transmission data to the car’s powertrain module. The ISS sensor monitors the input shaft’s speed. If these sensors get misaligned, the operation of the transmission system will be affected.
How much is it to replace a transmission sensor?
The average transmission position sensor replacement cost is between $265 and $325. Labor costs are estimated between $140 and $178, while parts are priced between $122 and $138.
Can an ABS sensor affect transmission?
Yes, a faulty ABS sensor can cause the transmission to act weirdly or shift improperly. The ABS sensor is a wheel speed sensor mounted on the hub of each wheel to report the speed of all four wheels individually to the ECU.