P0711 code meaning
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P07xx codes Check engine light
What P0711 means
P0711 means the fluid temperature signal is electrically valid but implausible. Manufacturers check three things: the fluid does not warm up as expected (GM 2025 still below 15 °C after the calibrated warm-up time, Saab's AF40 below 20 °C after 10 minutes of driving), the value is stuck (Ford: within ±2 °F for about 2.5 minutes below 70 or above 225 °F), or it jumps unrealistically. GM's 6T70 compares it with the module's internal temperature. The MIL rating varies: GM's newer modules after two trips, Saab AF40 none, Ford none; a 2013 Ram 6.7 bulletin moved P0711–P0714 from one to two trips. A substitute value then limits adaption and converter clutch control.
P0711 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor1 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P0711
- Harsh or late shifts
- Torque converter clutch applies late or not at all
- Check engine or transmission lamp depending on manufacturer
- Implausible fluid temperature in the scan tool
Common causes of P0711
- Most likelyFluid temperature sensor drifting or stuck
- PossibleHigh contact resistance in connector or harness (oil, corrosion)
- PossibleVery cold weather or short trips (fluid does not reach warm-up threshold)
- Less likelyOutdated module software
- Less likelyFluid cooler thermostat faulty
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Transmission fluid temperature sensorTransmission internal harnessTransmission control module
What each part of P0711 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. |
| 11 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0711 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 P0711
What does P0711 mean?
P0711 means "Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance". P0711 means the fluid temperature signal is electrically valid but implausible. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0711?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0711 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0711 fail an emissions test?
P0711 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 P0711 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 1 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P0711 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.