Which Codes Will This Page Cover?
- P0705 Transmission Range Sensor “A” Circuit (PRNDL Input)
- P0706 Transmission Range Sensor “A” Circuit Range/Performance
- P0707 Transmission Range Sensor “A” Circuit Low
- P0708 Transmission Range Sensor “A” Circuit High
- P0709 Transmission Range Sensor “A” Circuit Intermittent
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What Is the P0705 Code?
Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
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A P0705 code stands for “Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction (PRNDL Input).” This code is a generic powertrain code that can display in certain vehicles built in 1996 and onward. It is often triggered when the vehicle’s Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) is unable to send data or when the sensor sends inaccurate input to the vehicle’s Transmission Control (TCM) or Powertrain Control (PCM) Modules. Depending on the car in question, the Transmission Range Sensor may often be referred to as the neutral safety switch or PRNDL (Park-Reverse-Neutral-Drive-Low) input and can be found outside the transmission box or on the valve body. This sensor’s primary function is to effectively communicate the vehicle’s current gear selection or shift lever position with the TCM or PCM.
The P0705 code is a type of On-Board-Diagnostic-II (OBD-II) code, a vehicle’s self-diagnostic report. This particular OBD-II code may display common symptoms in different cars; therefore, proper diagnosis can vary for each car depending on the make and model.
What Are the Symptoms of a P0705 Code?
A common symptom of a P0705 code is a noticeable performance problem that the driver will immediately notice while driving. Some telltale signs of a P0705 code issue that drivers should look out for are if they experience difficulties while the car is shifting gears, such as harsh or delayed shifting, or even complete inability to put the car into gear.
Additionally, suppose the vehicle cannot start while the gear selector is in Park or Neutral or can successfully turn on while the gear selector is in any position other than Park or Neutral. This can signal a P0705 code issue. The Transmission Range sensor allows the vehicle to start only in a Park or Neutral position for obvious safety reasons. This feature prevents the car from driving unless the owner is entirely ready to assume control of the vehicle.
As with most diagnostic code issues, the car may also display the Check Engine Light or show irregular, bizarre, or even complete lack of PRNDL dash indicators. In addition, if a car’s reverse lights don’t switch on in reverse, this can also be a symptom of a P0705 code issue.
How Serious Is the P0705 Code?
Depending on the specific vehicle make and model, the severity of the P0705 code issue can vary. For example, a vehicle may experience faulty display issues and only display the Check Engine Light or irregular PRNDL indicators. On the other hand, a car can encounter more significant performance issues such as erratic gear shifting, going into limp or reduced power mode, not going above 40 MPH, or turning on correctly when the gear selector is in the park or neutral position. If you notice your car having performance issues while driving, you should get it checked out immediately by a qualified technician before further damage occurs.
Can I Still Drive with a P0705 Code?
Depending on the make and model and exact issue with the P0705 code, drivers may or may not be able to operate their vehicle with a P0705 code issue. In most cases, you will be able to operate your vehicle if a P0705 code is showing, but with significant performance issues, therefore it is strongly not recommended. However, suppose your vehicle is experiencing problems while shifting or going into limp or reduced power mode. This is a serious sign that the issue is significant, and you should get the vehicle inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0705 Code?
There are a variety of possible causes that could trigger the P0705 code; therefore, a proper diagnosis can get complicated. When technicians encounter a P0705 code issue or any other transmission diagnostic issue, one of the first things they do is check the transmission fluid level and the overall condition of the transmission.
Suppose everything is OK with the fluid and transmission’s overall condition. In that case, the technician then inspects the electrical connection on the TRS by checking that there is a proper voltage and ground present. If the TRS is mounted externally on the transmission box, it can encounter a bad connection due to things like moisture and road debris, in which case the technician will re-establish the connection. Along with the TRS, the technician will also inspect the TCM and PCM. If any show signs of visible damage after the inspection, a replacement is made.
The next step requires two technicians: one technician checks for proper voltage and ground presence at the TRS while another tech changes the car’s gears. This procedure allows them to verify the correct voltage output for every gear change. Technicians can perform similar tests on the Variable Resistor and Pressure Range Switch TRS systems. Their findings will help them determine if the wiring or the sensor is at fault or if the vehicle has significant issues with the TCM.
For a more detailed list of service centers near you, visit KBB’s service center list.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0705 Code?
As we’ve covered so far, there’s no universal solution for the P0705 code, as is the case with most OBD-II codes. In addition, correctly diagnosing the issue can get complicated as different makes and models involve other diagnostic procedures. As a result, most people leave it to the professionals and take their cars to their mechanics.
Though it may be possible to DIY diagnose this code, we don’t recommend it because of the sheer complexity of the overall process.
Need Additional Help with Your P0705 Code?
In conclusion, a P0705 code can be a minor issue or may cause significant performance issues to your car, depending on its make and model. Therefore, if you’re experiencing any problems shifting while driving your vehicle, you shouldn’t wait any longer to get it inspected by a proper technician to reduce the risk of further damage to your car.
For more information on the P0705 and other similar diagnostic codes, visit KBB’s vast library of OBD-II codes.
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