P0704 code meaning
Clutch Switch Input Circuit
What P0704 means
Only on cars with a clutch pedal: the clutch switch tells the engine module that the clutch is depressed, used to cancel cruise control, smooth load changes when shifting and for stop-start. The check is a plausibility test over driving events rather than a voltage check: Saab's Trionic T8 expects a change of state every time the car pulls away from 3 to 50 km/h (four misses in a row), the EDC16 diesel at gear changes (25 in a row, above 35 km/h and 1500 rpm), and Ford compares its two clutch switches continuously. None of them lights the check engine light; cruise control is disabled. Separate clutch pedal switch codes are P0830–P0835.
P0704 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyEasy, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.3 to 1 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0704
- Cruise control not working or not cancelling when declutching
- Jerks or rev hang when shifting
- Stop-start inactive
- Usually no check engine light
Common causes of P0704
- Most likelyClutch switch faulty or misadjusted (does not switch or too late)
- PossibleConnector or wiring at the pedal box damaged or corroded
- PossibleFloor mat or pedal stop shifted, switch bracket broken
- Less likelyDriving style (pulling away or shifting without fully depressing the clutch)
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Clutch switchSwitch wiringEngine control module
What each part of P0704 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 7 | Area: transmission. |
| 04 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0704 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P0704
What does P0704 mean?
P0704 means "Clutch Switch Input Circuit". Only on cars with a clutch pedal: the clutch switch tells the engine module that the clutch is depressed, used to cancel cruise control, smooth load changes when shifting and for stop-start. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0704?
P0704 does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will P0704 fail an emissions test?
P0704 is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is P0704 to fix?
Difficulty: easy. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 1 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P0704 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.