P2700 code meaning
Transmission Friction Element A Apply Time Range/Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P27xx codes Check engine light
What P2700 means
Automatic transmissions shift by filling and releasing clutches or brakes, the friction elements, and the controller learns how long each one takes to apply. P2700 is set when element A engages too slowly, too quickly or not plausibly compared with the commanded shift. Which part A is depends on the gearbox. Ford's 2012 OBD summary notes that its newer units replaced these clutch-level codes with solenoid stuck on/off codes for service, yet Ford still uses P2700: bulletin 16-0057 links it with P0751 and P0730 on TorqShift units built up to 15 December 2015 in E-Series, Super Duty and F-53/F-59 chassis and renews the cylinder of the coast clutch together with its one-way clutch. On Roush's propane Ford chassis the code is MIL on the E-450 and non-MIL on others. Harsh or slipping shifts are typical.
P2700 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor1 to 12 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P2700
- Harsh, delayed or slipping shifts involving clutch A
- Check engine or transmission warning light on
- Incorrect gear ratio codes stored at the same time
Common causes of P2700
- Most likelyWorn or damaged clutch A components, such as a cylinder, piston seal or one-way clutch
- PossibleSticking valve or solenoid in the main control valve body
- PossibleLow, aged or incorrect transmission fluid
- Less likelyAdaptive shift values not relearned after repair or software update
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Transmission clutch packShift solenoidTCM
What each part of P2700 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 7 | Area: transmission. |
| 00 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2700 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 P2700
What does P2700 mean?
P2700 means "Transmission Friction Element A Apply Time Range/Performance". Automatic transmissions shift by filling and releasing clutches or brakes, the friction elements, and the controller learns how long each one takes to apply. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2700?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2700 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2700 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2700 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 P2700 to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1 to 12 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P2700 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.