P0705: The transmission cannot read which gear you have selected
Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction (PRNDL Input)
There is a fault in the transmission range sensor circuit. The car may not know it is in Park, so it could start in gear or roll. Get it checked today, and set the parking brake every time you park.
Stop driving and get help if
- The check engine light is flashing
- The temperature gauge runs high, or you see steam (overheating)
- The car loses power, hesitates badly or stalls
- You smell burning or see smoke
- A brake warning light comes on, or the brakes feel different
Pull over as soon as you can, turn the engine off, and call a tow or roadside help.
What it means
The transmission range sensor (also called the neutral safety switch or TR sensor) tells the TCM and PCM which gear the shifter is in: Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Low. It is also the safety circuit that allows the starter to operate only in Park or Neutral. P0705 means the circuit is giving a signal the computer cannot interpret as a valid gear position. This is a safety-relevant code because the car may not know it is in Park. Some vehicles will allow the engine to start in any position with this fault, which is dangerous.
Common causes
- Out-of-adjustment transmission range sensorThe most common cause. The sensor shifts position over time and the adjustment is off.
- Faulty transmission range sensorInternal failure of the sensor producing an invalid or missing signal.
- Damaged wiring or connector at the range sensorLocated on the transmission case, often exposed to heat and contamination.
- Internal valve body or shift linkage issueIf the linkage does not actually move the transmission selector to the position indicated, the sensor reads incorrectly.
What the fix could involve
From the cheaper fix to the bigger one. Prices depend on your car, your area and the shop, so ask for a written quote that names the part and the labor before you approve it.
- Range sensor adjustment
- Transmission range sensor replacement
- Wiring or connector repair
Symptoms
- Transmission stuck in limp mode (usually second or third gear)
- No start from Park or Neutral
- Backup lights inoperative
- Check engine and transmission warning lights on
- Speedometer may not work on some vehicles
What to do next
Check whether the car starts normally or is in limp mode. If the car will not start at all, try starting in Neutral. If it starts in Neutral but not Park, the sensor is likely misadjusted or failed. A shop with a transmission scanner can see the exact gear position the sensor is reporting and compare it to the actual shifter position.
Lewis reads P0705 alongside any related transmission codes, including codes from the transmission computer on makes where Lewis reads it, so you can see the full picture behind the range sensor fault. Get Lewis on the App Store or Google Play.
FAQ
- Can this prevent my car from starting?
- Yes. The range sensor is part of the neutral safety circuit. If the computer does not see Park or Neutral, it will not allow the starter to operate on most vehicles.
- Is P0705 a common transmission problem?
- Yes, especially on high-mileage vehicles. The sensor is on the outside of the transmission and the adjustment drifts over time.
- Can I adjust the sensor myself?
- Adjustment is possible on most vehicles with basic hand tools. The procedure varies by make and model. Look up the specific adjustment procedure before attempting it.
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