What Does Code P0705 Mean?
- P0705 definition: Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction (PRNDL Input)
- Issue Severity: MODERATE – Extended driving with this code may cause internal engine damage.
- Repair Urgency: Get this code fixed as soon as possible.
- Diagnosis: This trouble code severely impacts the drivability of your vehicle. The most common problems consist of increased engine stalling, rough engine idle, lowered fuel economy, and rattling/knocking noises from the engine. Continuing to drive the vehicle in this condition can cause severe damage to multiple internal engine components.
When code P0705 is triggered, the ECM or TCM is not seeing what gear the transmission is in (park, reverse, neutral, drive, or low). If the ECM or TCM can’t verify that the transmission is in park or neutral, it will not allow the vehicle to start. Based on the design of the vehicle, the transmission range sensor/switch (TRS) may be located externally of the transmission (which is easily replaced). It could also be located internally to the transmission and require replacement of the valve body or replacement of the entire transmission assembly to resolve the concern.
P0705 Causes
- Faulty Transmission Range Sensor/Switch (TRS)
- Faulty Valve Body (TRS can be part of this)
- Faulty Transmission (TRS can be part of this)
- Misadjusted TRS
- Frayed or damaged wiring to the TRS
- Humidity in Tail Lights
P0705 Symptoms
- Check Engine Light
- Possible no start
- Possible start in drive or reverse
- May only start if you push on shifter
- Delayed gear engagement
- Reverse lights don’t illuminate when in reverse
- No gear position displayed
- Harsh engagement into gear
How Do I Fix Code P0705?
With a P0705 code, the first step is to get it properly diagnosed to figure out what is causing the malfunction related to the transmission control module. Using the live data function of the FIXD sensor and app allows you to read and analyze engine data to properly diagnose a P0705 code.
If the sensors are all reading correctly and you’re not comfortable further diagnosing this issue at home, we recommend finding a RepairPal-certified shop to pinpoint the problem and give an accurate estimate for repairs.
These shops can not only help you figure out what’s going wrong before you waste time and money on the wrong parts, but they also offer a minimum 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty and stand behind all their estimates with guaranteed fair pricing.
> Find a RepairPal Certified Shop Near You
How Much Does It Cost to Fix Code P0705?
If you take your car to a shop for diagnosis, most shops will start with an hour of “diag time” (the time spent in labor diagnosing your specific issue). Depending on the shop’s labor rate, this typically costs somewhere between $75-$150. Many, if not most, shops will apply this diagnosis fee to any required repairs if you have them perform the repairs for you. From there, a shop will be able to give you an accurate estimate for repairs to fix your P0705 code.
Possible Repair Costs for P0705
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.
- Transmission Range Sensor/Switch $100-$350
- Tail Lamp Assembly $200-$2000
- Valve Body $400-$1000
- Transmission $1800-$4500
- Transmission Range Sensor/Switch Adjustment $100
- Wiring repair/replacement $100-$1000
DIY Steps to Diagnose Code P0705
If you’d like to try to fix code P0022 at home without throwing money at parts, you’ll want to follow the steps below for proper diagnosis. Complete diagnosis may require some specialized equipment beyond what the FIXD Sensor can provide, but for the most part, this diagnosis and repair can be attempted by beginner DIYers.
DIY difficulty level: Intermediate
This repair requires mechanical knowledge and is not recommended for beginners.
Tools/parts needed (our top picks from Amazon):
- FIXD
- Basic hand tools
- Vehicle Specific Service Manual
STEP 1: USE FIXD TO ENSURE NO OTHER ENGINE CODES ARE PRESENT.
Scan your vehicle to verify P0705 is the only code present. If other codes are present, they must be addressed first.
STEP 2: CHECK FREEZE FRAME DATA.
Check the freeze frame data in order to pinpoint the issue.
STEP 3: INSPECT TAILLIGHTS.
Check to see if the taillights have water droplets in them or the lenses are cracked. In some cases, this can cause the lights to short to each other and cause this code. Replace the Tail Lamp Assembly(s) if they are cracked or show evidence of humidity inside the housing.
STEP 4: INSPECT TRANSMISSION RANGE SWITCH AND WIRING.
Locate the Transmission range sensor/switch. If it is internal, you will have to take it to a shop that is equipped to diagnose this type of transmission. If it is external, consult the vehicle’s service manual for an exact procedure to adjust the transmission range sensor/switch and adjust it properly. Also, check the wiring at the TRS for disconnection or fraying. Repair as needed.
If all of these check out and the code is still populating, replace the transmission range sensor/switch.
STEP 5: CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL.
If at this point the vehicle is still setting the same code, you may have a more serious problem with your car’s oxygen sensor system, and you should bring the vehicle to a certified shop to have further diagnostic work performed.
Common P0705 Diagnosis Mistakes
The most common diagnosis mistake is replacing the TRS without checking to see if it was out of adjustment.
Still Need Help Fixing Code P0705?
If you’ve followed the steps above and are still experiencing issues with the oxygen sensor system and code P0705, please contact the FIXD Mechanic Hotline if you’re a FIXD Premium subscriber or find a RepairPal certified shop near you to get the right repairs at a fair price.
Popular Engine Codes po420 code po172 code po0171 code po128 code po300 code po456 code po430 code po442 code po455 code po113 code
Fixed It But The Check Engine Light Is Still On?
Check engine light sometimes need to be reset manually, check out our article:
How to Reset Your Check Engine Light | 4 Ways To Clear It (With or Without a Scanner)
Lifelong automotive enthusiast with a soft spot for offroading. Wrencher turned writer, but I still love to tinker on just about anything with an engine. Dream car: tie between a ‘71 Hemi ‘Cuda and a ’91 GMC Syclone. #GirlDad #SaveTheManuals
