P0705 code — how to fix error fast

Facing transmission problems is the worst fear of all drivers that own cars with an automatic shifter, and the code P0705 is right at the top of the concern list. It can manifest through several symptoms that reveal transmission faults such as rough shifting and the gearbox being out of sync with the car’s moving speed.

That’s why it’s crucial to get to know the P0705 code meaning to have a better understanding of what this code stands for. In this guide, we’ll try to provide you with all the necessary information for properly dealing with the code and preventing it from happening again.

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What does the P0705 code mean?

The P0705 code indicates a malfunction in the transmission range sensor circuit. The transmission range sensor is an electronic component that is responsible for communicating the gear position of a vehicle to the engine control unit (ECU). The ECU uses this information to adjust the engine’s performance and optimize fuel efficiency.

If the transmission range sensor circuit malfunctions, the ECU will not receive the correct gear position information, resulting in issues with shifting gears, reduced fuel efficiency, and other performance problems. What’s more, it could even cause your car’s transmission not to shift out from the park position to a moving gear properly, or the gearbox being in the wrong gear.

What causes the P0705 code?

While most of the time the code P0705 is associated directly with a failed transmission range sensor, there could be other underlying reasons behind the code’s appearance. It mostly has to do with the sensor one way or the other, but we’ll, either way, go through all the potential causes to help you tackle whatever may have caused the code in your vehicle:

Faulty transmission range sensor

The most common cause of a P0705 code is a faulty TRS. This can happen due to wear and tear over time, or damage to the sensor from exposure to heat, dust, or moisture.

Damaged wiring or electrical connections

Damaged or corroded wiring leading to the TRS can also cause this code to be activated. Also, loose or disconnected electrical connections at any point in the circuit that leads to or from the TRS can also cause this code to be set.

Faulty ECU

In rare cases, the ECU itself can malfunction, causing issues with the transmission range sensor. If the scanner tool reads the code as a P0705 one, it’s at least a good thing to check the ECU to make sure it’s not faulty or damaged.

If it is, this may lead to an even bigger problem than the transmission range sensor, since the ECU replacement is much more expensive and often goes from $400 to $1500.

Which car models does the P0705 code affect the most?

The code P0705 may occur in any vehicle with an automatic transmission, so it’s not so easy to figure out the vehicles in higher danger than others. However, some car models are known to have a higher incidence of P0705 codes than others. Here are some examples:

• Honda Accord: Older model-year Honda Accords, particularly those manufactured between 1998 and 2002, are known to be susceptible to P0705 codes due to issues with the TRS.
• Dodge Grand Caravan: The Dodge Grand Caravan is another vehicle that has been known to experience P0705 codes. This issue may be caused by a worn or damaged TRS, or by wiring issues leading to the sensor.
• Ford Focus: Some model years of the Ford Focus have been known to experience P0705 codes due to issues with the TRS.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee: The Jeep Grand Cherokee is another vehicle that has been known to experience P0705 codes. In some cases, this issue may be caused by wiring problems or a faulty TRS.

How to diagnose the P0705 code

The easiest way of diagnosing this code is by using a diagnostic scanner tool. It’s something that every mechanic will have, but you can also get it yourself for a quick diagnostic task since there are numerous affordable scanner tools you can use while on the go.

Still, there are a couple of other ways to diagnose the error code, so here’s what you can do:

Do a visual inspection

The first step in diagnosing a P0705 code is to perform a visual inspection of the TRS and its wiring connections. Look for any signs of damage or corrosion that could be affecting the sensor’s performance.

Look for other codes regarding the transmission

Sometimes, other codes may be present alongside P0705, which could provide additional clues about the underlying problem.

Check the wiring connections

Check all TRS wiring connections for loose or corroded connections, and repair them as necessary. If you don’t have enough experience to do this yourself, you should leave it to a trusted mechanic that knows how to deal with diagnostic methods regarding cars with an automatic transmissions.

How to fix the P0705 code

Once the inspection phase is finished, it’s time we get to the real deal – fixing the underlying issue and repairing the capacity of the transmission range sensor. Depending on the culprit behind the situation with the code appearing, here’s what you can do to fix it:

Replace the sensor

If the problem was caused by a malfunctioning transmission range sensor, you can replace it with a new one and the issue should be resolved. The code will be gone and you’ll also ensure that the ECU receives adequate information from the sensor.

Repair the wiring connections

If wiring connections leading to the TRS are found to be loose or corroded, repairing or replacing them may fix the issue.

Replace the ECU

As mentioned, the faulty ECU could be the cause behind the issue in some rare situations. So, the only thing you can do if that’s the unfortunate case with your car is to try and reprogram the ECU in the hope it will run according to the original metrics provided by the sensor.

If that fails, you can only replace it with a new module and this can be a pretty costly repair.

How to prevent the P0705 code

To prevent the P0705 code from occurring, it is crucial to maintain the transmission range sensor and related wiring. Here are some preventative measures:

• Regular Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle, which includes regular inspections of the transmission range sensor and wiring.
• Proper Use: Use your vehicle properly and avoid shifting gears harshly or abruptly.
• Safe Driving: Practice safe driving habits, such as avoiding sudden stops and starts, which can put stress on the transmission range sensor and wiring.

So, to prevent the code from appearing in your car, you should follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle, which includes regular inspections of the transmission range sensor and wiring.

Make sure not to shift the gears roughly if you use a manual mode for shifting gears or shifting pedals, and make sure not to put too much stress on the transmission by harsh acceleration or sudden braking.

Our take

Overall, the code P0705 can be quite worrying, especially if you happen to experience some of its symptoms. In the worst-case situation, you may not even be able to shift from the park gear into a moving gear and that’s especially a cause for concern if you are in a hurry.

Luckily, there are easy steps to take to prevent this from happening, as well as for fixing the issue, so we hope that our guide can help you on that path.