P0706 code meaning
Transmission Range Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P07xx codes Check engine light
What P0706 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). P0706 means the signal is present but implausible. Ford uses it per transmission: for its PWM sensor when the frequency leaves 100–175 Hz (nominal 125 Hz), for the 6F digital sensor when it stays in the transition zone between two positions. Saab's 9-5 (9650), whose sensor sits in the transmission module, flags a sum of the two opposing channels more than 0.29 V away from 5 V, with the lamp in the first trip; adaptations are frozen, the gearbox holds 2nd gear in D and the engine may not restart after switch-off.
P0706 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0706
- 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 P0706
- Most likelyRange sensor or transmission module with integrated sensor faulty
- PossibleSelector cable or sensor misadjusted (position between two ranges)
- PossibleContact resistance in sensor supply or ground
- Less likelyMoisture or oil in harness or connector
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 P0706 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. |
| 06 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0706 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 P0706
What does P0706 mean?
P0706 means "Transmission Range Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance". 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 P0706?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0706 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0706 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0706 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 P0706 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0706 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.