P0711 OBD-II Trouble Code: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

P0711 code definition

The P0711 code is a generic powertrain code related to the transmission, including sensor failures and pressure faults. In this case, it means that the engine control module (ECM) or powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a fault or error with the Transmission Fluid temperature circuit.

Codes related to the P0711 include:

• P0710: Transmission Fluid Temp. Sensor Circuit
• P0712: Transmission Fluid Temp. Sensor Circuit Low Input
• P0713: Transmission Fluid Temp. Sensor Circuit High Input
• P0714: Transmission Fluid Temp. Sensor Circuit Intermittent
• P2740: Transmission Fluid Temp. Sensor “B” Circuit
• P2741: Transmission Fluid Temp. Sensor “B” Circuit Range/Performance
• P2742: Transmission Fluid Temp. Sensor “B” Circuit Low
• P2743: Transmission Fluid Temp. Sensor “B” Circuit High
• P2744: Transmission Fluid Temp. Sensor “B” Circuit Intermittent

What the P0711 code means

A code P0711 will be stored when the ECM/PCM has found a problem with the transmission temperature. If the transmission temperature rises above a preset temperature (refer to your vehicle’s service manual for specifics to your make and model), a code can be stored.

A vehicle’s automatic transmission uses a temperature sensor to send the ECM/PCM information. The sensor is typically a two-wire variable-resistance type sensor, with a voltage wire and ground wire. The reference voltage helps the ECM/PCM monitor the transmission’s temperature. If the transmission temperature is too high, or too low, a code will be stored.

What causes the P0711 code?

Several problems may cause a P0711 code including:

• Low transmission fluid (due to a leak)
• Dirty or contaminated transmission fluid
• May experience a slipping transmission
• Damaged or defective transmission temperature sensor
• Engine may overheat
• Damaged or defective ECM/PCM

What are the symptoms of the P0711 code?

Symptoms of a P0711 code may include:

• Check engine or warning light may illuminate
• May smell transmission fluid that has been overheated
• Smoke may appear from the transmission
• Transmission may slip
• Transmission may not engage at all
• Vehicle may go into “limp” mode

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0711 code?

A mechanic may use several methods to diagnose a P0711 trouble code, including:

• Utilize an OBD-II scanner to check for a stored P0711 trouble code
• Check transmission fluid level and compare to manufacturer preset levels
• Check transmission fluid quality
• Check transmission pan for clutch or other debris, which, if found, may require a complete transmission rebuild
• Check for transmission fluid leaks
• Visually check for damaged, corroded, or loose electrical wires and connectors
• Unplug transmission temperature sensor from electrical connector and test for reference voltage, which is typically 5 volts but can vary depending on vehicle make and model
• Check sensor ground wire
• Test sensor resistance and compare to manufacturer recommendations
• Disconnect the ECM/PCM electrical connector to test resistance as well as circuit continuity between the temperature sensor and ECM/PCM

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0711 code

If a P0711 code is stored and the engine is not overheating but the transmission is, it is possible that the transmission fluid used was subpar, or the fluid levels are dangerously low.

How serious is the P0711 code?

Because a vehicle’s safe driving operation most likely will be impacted due to faults that store a P0711 code, this code is considered a potentially serious code. When this code appears, it is recommended to immediately take your vehicle to your local service center or mechanic for repair and diagnosis.

What repairs can fix the P0711 code?

Several repairs can fix a P0711 trouble code and include:

• Fill transmission fluid to manufacturer recommended levels
• Perform a transmission fluid service, if needed
• Repair any transmission fluid leaks
• Repair loose or damaged electrical wiring and related connectors
• Replace damaged or defective transmission temperature sensor
• Rebuild damaged or defective transmission
• Replace damaged/defective ECM/PCM and reprogram
• Clear all codes, test-drive the vehicle, and rescan to see if any codes reappear

Additional information related to a P0711 code

If this code is stored, it is recommended to immediately cease using the vehicle and have it towed to or looked at by a mechanic for diagnosis and repair.

Need help with a P0711 code?

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