Powertrain, generic · Transmission

P0710 Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleRequired
Limp modePossible

The transmission fluid temperature sensor is an NTC thermistor whose resistance falls as the fluid warms; the module feeds it with 5 V through a resistor. A low signal therefore means very hot or a short to ground, a high signal very cold or an open circuit. P0710 is the general circuit code used when a manufacturer does not separate low and high. Subaru-based systems (Saab 9-2X) flag 0.1 V or less or 4.7 V or more, light the MIL after two consecutive trips and use 80 °C as substitute. Ford's 2023 diesels use P0710 alongside P0712/P0713 for open and short circuits, without MIL, after 5–12 s, substituting coolant temperature. GM uses only the split codes. With the substitute value the shift quality suffers: harsh shifts and a late converter clutch.

Likely causes

Fluid temperature sensor faulty (often part of the internal harness or valve body)
Transmission connector leaking or corroded, oil in the connector
Wire open or shorted
Transmission or engine module faulty

Symptoms

  • 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

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€80–600
Time1–4 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

transmission fluid temperature sensortransmission internal harnesstransmission control module

Related codes

P0711P0712P0713P0714P0218P0700

References: saabwisonline.com, fordservicecontent.com, law.cornell.edu, en.wikipedia.org.