P0708 code meaning
Transmission Range Sensor A Circuit High
Powertrain system Generic code P07xx codes Check engine light
What P0708 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). P0708 means the sensor A signal is too high – a short to voltage or, depending on the circuit, an open line pulled up. GM's T87A transmission module flags a PWM duty cycle above 91.2 % for 1.8 s within 2.25 s, lamp in the first trip; Ford flags a duty cycle above 90 %, an analog sensor above 4.8 V for 5 s, a dual-analog channel above 4.84 V for 200 ms, and explicitly an open circuit on its digital sensor (all switches open, e.g. unplugged); Saab's 9-5 (9650) above 4.87 V for 100 ms twice, with 2nd gear held and a restart interlock.
P0708 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 P0708
- 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 P0708
- Most likelySensor connector off or signal/ground wire open
- PossibleSignal wire shorted to voltage
- PossibleSensor faulty internally
- Less likelyPoor sensor or transmission ground
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 P0708 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. |
| 08 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0708 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 P0708
What does P0708 mean?
P0708 means "Transmission Range Sensor A Circuit High". 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 P0708?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0708 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0708 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0708 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 P0708 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0708 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.