P0705 code meaning
Transmission Range Sensor A Circuit (PRNDL Input)
Powertrain system Generic code P07xx codes Check engine light
What P0705 means
The transmission range sensor (selector or multifunction switch, PRNDL) reports the selected range; it may be a multi-contact switch with a bit pattern per position, an analog sensor with two opposing voltages adding up to 5 V, or a contactless PWM sensor. Its second channel has its own codes (P2801–P2805). P0705 is the circuit or pattern fault: the module receives a combination that matches no valid position. Ford flags an invalid pattern after 5 s (digital sensor) or 200 ms (4-bit sensor), checking continuously with the check engine light; Saab's 9-5 (9600) detects an impossible combination of its four contacts and goes into limp mode with the gearbox warning. The transmission no longer knows the range reliably – limp mode, start interlock or reversing light may be affected. Check the harness for shorts to ground before replacing the sensor.
P0705 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 2.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0705
- Check engine and/or transmission warning lamp
- Transmission limp mode, fixed gear, harsh shifts
- Starting problems in P/N or start interlock
- Wrong gear indication, reversing light not working
Common causes of P0705
- Most likelyRange sensor worn, dirty or with oil or water ingress
- PossibleSensor misadjusted or selector cable out of adjustment
- PossibleHarness or connector at the transmission damaged, short to ground
- Less likelyTransmission or engine module input faulty
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Transmission range sensorSensor wiringTransmission control module
What each part of P0705 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. |
| 05 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0705 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 P0705
What does P0705 mean?
P0705 means "Transmission Range Sensor A Circuit (PRNDL Input)". The transmission range sensor (selector or multifunction switch, PRNDL) reports the selected range; it may be a multi-contact switch with a bit pattern per position, an analog sensor with two opposing voltages adding up to 5 V, or a contactless PWM sensor. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0705?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0705 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0705 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0705 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P0705 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2.5 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0705 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.