P0705 code: Transmission range sensor circuit

What P0705 means

P0705 is a generic SAE J2012 code: Transmission Range Sensor "A" Circuit (PRNDL Input). The sensor is mounted on the transmission at the shift shaft or inside the transmission on some designs. It sends a signal for each shifter position: Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive and the lower ranges.

If the computer sees an impossible combination, such as two positions at once or no position at all, it sets P0705. The computer uses this signal for starter permission, reverse lights, shift scheduling and the gear display on the dash. Look up companion codes with the code decoder.

Symptoms of P0705

• Check engine light on
• Engine will not crank in Park, or only in Neutral
• Engine cranks in a gear other than Park or Neutral
• Gear indicator blank, wrong or flashing
• Reverse lights not working
• Harsh, delayed or erratic shifts, or limp mode on some vehicles

Common causes of P0705

Start with linkage adjustment and wiring before replacing any parts.

How to diagnose P0705

1. 1

   Read all codes, including transmission module codes if your scanner can read them, and save the freeze frame.

2. 2

   With the engine off and parking brake set, move the shifter through each position and watch the range sensor reading in live data. Every position should show correctly with no gaps or double readings.

3. 3

   Check whether the gear display, reverse lights and starter behave correctly in each position.

4. 4

   Inspect the shift cable and the lever at the transmission for looseness, a broken bushing or misadjustment.

5. 5

   Unplug the range sensor connector and check for fluid, corrosion and bent pins.

6. 6

   Test the sensor's outputs with a multimeter against the chart in the service information for your transmission.

7. 7

   Adjust or replace the sensor as needed, clear the code and recheck every position.

Note.Before testing shifter positions, set the parking brake firmly and keep the engine off unless the procedure says otherwise. Never stand in front of or behind a vehicle that might move. If the engine cranks in Drive or Reverse, do not drive it until repaired.

How to fix P0705

Many P0705 repairs are an adjustment, a shift cable bushing or a connector repair. Replacing an externally mounted range sensor is a moderate DIY job on many vehicles, but it must be adjusted correctly afterward. Internal sensors require removing the transmission pan or more, and a shop is often the better choice.

To read transmission module data and live range sensor values, you need a scanner that goes beyond basic engine codes. Our guide to OBD2 scanners for DIY mechanics covers tools with transmission coverage, and bidirectional scan tools add relearn and adaptation functions on many vehicles.

Find a scanner that reads transmission data →

Can you drive with P0705?

Only with care. If the car starts only in Park and Neutral and shifts normally, short trips to a repair shop are usually fine. If it starts in gear, the car could lurch when started, so do not drive it.

Wrong range data can also cause harsh shifts or limp mode, and non-working reverse lights make backing up less safe for others. See can you drive with the check engine light on.

Related codes

If the transmission computer stops talking to the engine computer, you may see U0101. A network-wide problem can set U0100 or U0001. Check engine module problems are covered in P0606.

Frequently asked questions

Is the transmission range sensor the same as the neutral safety switch? On many vehicles, yes. The range sensor does the job of the older neutral safety switch and also reports gear position.

Can low transmission fluid cause P0705? Not usually. P0705 is a sensor circuit code. Low fluid causes shifting problems and other codes, but checking the fluid is still good practice.

Can P0705 cause a no start? Yes. If the computer does not see Park or Neutral, it may block the starter.

Do I need to adjust a new range sensor? Often yes. Many external sensors must be set to a specific position. Follow the service information for your transmission.