When you see code P0705 pop up, what you’re really looking at is your car’s computer having a tough time communicating with the transmission range sensor. Some folks call this the PRNDL input or even the neutral safety switch. From my time in the shop, I know this sensor has one critical job: telling the vehicle’s computer exactly which gear you’ve selected-Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, the whole lineup. Without that info, the car can’t start safely, shift properly, or even turn on your reverse lights when needed. If the sensor’s signal goes missing or gets scrambled, the computer loses track of your gear position, and all sorts of strange behavior can follow. I’ve seen these sensors mounted right on the transmission, and sometimes tucked away on the valve body. Don’t underestimate its importance-it’s a linchpin in keeping the engine and transmission in sync, mile after mile.
DTC P0705
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6 minutes of readingMain Causes of dtc P0705
From experience, the most common reason for a P0705 code is a faulty transmission range sensor itself. But that's not the only thing that can set this code off. Here’s what I usually see as the main culprits:
- Malfunctioning transmission range sensor (PRNDL input)
- Damaged or corroded wiring or poor connections in the sensor circuit
- Problems with the shift linkage (like it being out of adjustment or worn out)
- Defective valve body inside the transmission (less common, but possible)
- Faulty transmission control module (TCM) or powertrain control module (PCM)
Most often the issue is with the sensor or its wiring, but I always recommend checking everything in the list before replacing parts. This error can also happen on car brands like Toyota and Nissan.
Recognizing Symptoms of P0705
If you’re dealing with this code, chances are you’ll spot at least one of these telltale signs:
- Check Engine Light glowing-or even blinking at you
- Shifting that feels rough, takes too long, or the car flat-out refuses to go into gear
- The dash gear indicator acting up, maybe flickering or showing the wrong gear entirely
- No reverse lights when you shift into reverse (that’s a big red flag, especially at night)
- The engine starting in something other than Park or Neutral, which is downright dangerous
Every now and then, the car might seem to drive just fine, but trust me, ignoring this code is playing with fire. Even if things feel normal, you’re risking your safety and the health of your transmission.
Step by Step P0705 Engine Code Diagnosis
Let me walk you through how I’d tackle a P0705 code in the garage, step-by-step:
- First things first, grab a scan tool and pull all the codes, not just P0705. Jot down any freeze-frame data you find-it can be a real lifesaver later on.
- Next up, get your hands dirty with a visual inspection. Look for any damaged, corroded, or loose wiring and connectors right at the transmission range sensor. Water in the connector, busted locking tabs, or green corrosion? These are sneaky problems that love to hide in plain sight.
- After that, check the shift linkage. Is it adjusted right? Is it worn out? If the linkage isn’t spot-on, the sensor can’t do its job, plain and simple.
- Time to test the sensor. Depending on your car, you might be checking for proper voltage and ground at the sensor, or using a scan tool to watch if the computer actually sees you moving through the gears.
- If you’ve made it this far and things still look off, try realigning the transmission range sensor. Here’s a pro-tip from the garage: put the car in reverse and see if the backup lights kick on. If not, a small adjustment can sometimes make all the difference.
- Still chasing the issue? At this point, check the TCM or PCM. It’s rare, but I’ve seen a faulty control module be the culprit, and sometimes they need reprogramming or replacement.
It’s always easier if you’ve got a second set of hands for moving the shifter while you watch for changes. Plus, every make and model has its own wrinkles-don’t skip the repair manual. If you’re working on a Toyota or Nissan, keep in mind there can be some brand-specific quirks in the diagnosis steps.
Avoiding Common obd code P0705 Mistakes
A classic mistake I see-folks rush out and swap the transmission range sensor without ever checking the wiring or linkage first. Another misstep is slapping the new sensor on and forgetting to align it just right. If you’re even a hair off, you’ll still have the same problems. Sometimes, people skip over the basics, like making sure the connector is snapped in tight and free of any crusty corrosion. And don’t ignore other trouble codes that might be pointing you toward a related issue. Cut corners here, and you’re just setting yourself up for wasted time and money. I see this a lot, especially when someone’s dealing with a codigo p0705 and gets tunnel vision on the sensor alone.
How Serious is obd2 code P0705
Let me be blunt: this isn’t something you want to put on the back burner. If your transmission range sensor isn’t doing its job, the car might start in gear-and that’s a dangerous situation. You could end up with harsh shifts, or worse, stuck and unable to get into any gear at all. Keep ignoring it, and you’re flirting with bigger headaches: fried transmission, damaged control modules, or even a fender bender. Things can go sideways in a hurry, so my advice is simple-don’t wait. Get on top of it and get it fixed. And if you’re working on something like a Nissan, be extra careful; their transmission electronics can be especially touchy.
Effective P0705 Trouble Code Repairs
Here’s my go-to playbook for fixing a P0705, based on what’s worked time and time again in my shop:
- Repair or replace any busted wiring or crusty connectors at the transmission range sensor
- Adjust or swap out the shift linkage if it’s loose, worn, or out of whack
- Realign or replace the transmission range sensor (PRNDL input) if it’s acting up
- On rare occasions, you might have to replace the valve body if it’s the root cause
- If you’re still chasing ghosts, replacing or reprogramming the TCM or PCM might be your last resort-but be ready, dealer tools may be required
Always finish up by clearing the codes and taking the car for a good, solid test drive to make sure you’ve nailed the fix. When you’re up against toyota dtc p0705 or nissan dtc p0705, stick to the factory repair steps-they’re there for a reason, and cutting corners can cost you.
Conclusion
Bottom line, if you’re staring down a P0705 code, your car’s computer is flying blind when it comes to knowing what gear you’re in-usually thanks to a bum transmission range sensor or some ugly wiring. This isn’t just a nuisance; it’s a safety risk and can leave you stranded or worse. In my experience, a careful, thorough check of the wiring and linkage before jumping to sensor replacement saves time, money, and headaches. Don’t sweep this one under the rug-get it sorted, and your transmission (and wallet) will thank you down the road.
