P0705 OBD II Trouble Code | Autance

Looking for the meaning of P0705 code? You’re in the right place. In this article, we talk about the meaning,…

By Car Autance Staff

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Looking for the meaning of P0705 code? You’re in the right place. In this article, we talk about the meaning, cause and possible solutions to the “Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction”, or P0705 Code.

Meaning and Cause of P0705 Code

First things first – is this a generic or a manufacturer-specific Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)? Because it starts with P0xxx, the P0705 is a generic powertrain code, meaning it covers all vehicles with OBD-II systems, or all newer makes and models (1996 and newer). Normally, generic DTCs will exhibit similar symptoms across all newer vehicles, however, the specific diagnostic and repair steps will vary from model to model.

What Does the P0705 Code Mean?

This DTC indicates a problem with a part of your vehicle known as Transmission Range Sensor or Transmission Gear Position switch. Another common name for this part is Park Neutral Position switch, or PNP switch. When the Transmission Control Module (TCM) receives an erroneous input from this particular sensor, your Engine Control Module (ECM) will light up your Check Engine Light.

To explain in more detail, we need to address the location and function of the Transmission Range Sensor (TRS). Usually, it’s found on the outside of the transmission box, but sometimes, it can be located inside the transmission on the valve body. Its function is to inform the TCM, and by extension the ECM, of gear selection or the position of the shift lever. If the ECM doesn’t receive an input, P0705 occurs. There is another way this DTC may set – if the ECM receives an illogical input. For instance, if you’re driving 60 mph but the TRS informs the ECM that the vehicle is in reverse, the code P0705 will occur. Likewise, if the TRS becomes so faulty that it tells the ECM that it’s in more than one gear at the same time, the code P0705 will set.

Finally, there are different types of TRS and it’s important to differentiate between each as diagnostic and repair steps will vary from type to type:

The Contact TRS

This type consists of a set of wires that communicate with the ECM, letting it know the exact shift lever position. This is possible because each position of the shifter has its own wire.

The Pressure Range Switch

This type is mounted on the valve body of the transmission. There are various passages for the transmission fluid which get open and closed as the shifter is moved, which is how this type of the sensor knows when the position moves.

The Variable Resistor

Containing a series of resistors tied to one voltage output, this type is designed to absorb a certain amount of voltage. Because each gear has its own resistor that will be used depending on the shifter positioning (park, reverse, neutral, drive, low, or PRNDL), the sensor knows when and which position moves.

But What Causes the Code P0705?

Sine there are several types of the TRS, there can be various causes for the occurrence of this DTC. The most common ones include:

Short or open in the TRS circuit
Loose or damaged TRS
Defective transmission range sensor
Loose or damaged connector at the external TRS
Misadjusted shift linkage
Contaminated/bad transmission fluid
Blockage in the internal valve body TRS port
Faulty transmission valve body
Low voltage
Damaged TCM or ECM (rare)

Symptoms of the P0705 Code

The P0705 code can have a variety of symptoms, including the following:

Check Engine Light is on
The vehicle may experience a no start condition
Harsh/erratic shifting
The vehicle may start in any gear
Poor fuel economy
The car may only start in neutral
No reverse lights
The vehicle may not go in or out of gear

Diagnosing and Repairing the P0705 Code

Although a very common cause for this DTC is a defective TRS, this is not always the case. Often, the problem will lie in a misadjusted TRS, where the solution is to simply adjust it. However, mechanics will sometimes replace the sensor in error. This is a costly mistake. Another common mistake when diagnosing the P0705 code is not checking the fluid level and condition. If the fluid is low, contaminated or both, the code P0705 code can occur, plus several other problems. To avoid these common but easily solvable issues, it’s crucial to start and perform the diagnostic and repair process following the right steps.

Note: If you have an extensive auto knowledge, you may be able to do this with the help of a friend. Otherwise, it’s highly advisable you hire a professional as diagnosing and repairing P0705 code can be tricky.

Plug the OBD-II scanner into the DLC port. Record all stored codes and freeze frame data.
Start the inspection by checking the fluid level and condition, as well as the condition of the transmission. If all is well there, inspect the electrical connection on the TRS. This is especially important if the switch is mounted externally because it’s susceptible to road dirt, grime and moisture which can damage the connection. Also, verify that the TRS has a proper voltage.
For the Contact type TRS

Probe each wire, and at the same time, change the gears to verify there is correct output (this is why at least two people, preferably mechanics should do the inspection, diagnosis and repair of this DTC). If all works well, there will be a change in the voltage every time the gear position is changed.

For the Variable Resistor Type

Using a multimeter, measure the amount of voltage that the reference wire outputs. This needs to be done because the reference wire sends a different voltage to the ECM every time the gear is changed. So, if the voltage doesn’t change or appears to be nonexistent, the problem is either in the sensor itself or reference wire.

For the Pressure Range Switch Type

Because most of these types of sensors use a ground connection as their form of output, a mechanic needs to verify which wires are actually output to ground. To do this, gear position needs to be changed so that the valve body lets the transmission fluid go through different passages. As it travels through one of the passages, the TRS will output that ground. Of course, to find out which wire corresponds to which gear, you’ll need a wiring diagram of the sensor.

So, the following fixes can help resolve the P0705 code:

Repairing a short or open in the TRS circuit
Adjusting a misadjusted TRS
Replacing a damaged TRS
Changing the transmission fluid and/or filter
Rarely, replacing the (faulty) ECM.

Additional Information about the P0705 Code

Because there are different types of TRS, inspecting, diagnosing and repairing P0705 may require a lot of work. For this reason, and also because two people are usually necessary to inspect the vehicle, it’s recommended you hire a professional to deal with this DTC.