Transmission Diagnostic Trouble Codes

Introduction to Understanding and Resolving Diesel Transmission Error Codes

Modern diesel engines are marvels of engineering, designed to provide robust performance and fuel efficiency. However, like all complex machinery, they are not immune to issues, particularly within their transmission systems. Transmission error codes such as P0700, P0736, P0868, and many others serve as critical indicators of underlying problems that require timely and precise intervention.

This guide aims to shed light on common diesel transmission error codes, their meanings, and the necessary steps to address these issues effectively. While understanding these error codes is essential for any vehicle owner or operator, the complexities involved in diagnosing and fixing these problems highlight the significant benefits of hiring a professional transmission specialist.

The Complexity of Diesel Transmission Issues

Transmission systems in diesel vehicles are intricate and require specialized knowledge and tools for accurate diagnosis and repair. Error codes can indicate a wide range of issues, from sensor malfunctions to fluid pressure problems, each necessitating a different approach. Attempting to resolve these problems without professional expertise can lead to:

  • Misdiagnosis: Misinterpreting error codes can result in unnecessary repairs and expenses, potentially causing further damage.
  • Safety Risks: Inadequate repairs can compromise vehicle safety, leading to dangerous driving conditions.
  • Increased Costs: DIY repairs may save money initially but can lead to higher costs in the long run due to improper fixes and recurring issues.

The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Transmission Specialist

Professional transmission specialists bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that ensures precise and efficient problem resolution. Here are some key benefits:

  • Accurate Diagnosis: Specialists use advanced diagnostic tools to accurately identify the root cause of transmission issues, saving time and money.
  • Expert Repairs: With comprehensive training and experience, professionals can perform repairs that meet or exceed manufacturer standards, ensuring longevity and reliability.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that your vehicle is in the hands of experts provides peace of mind, ensuring that repairs are performed safely and correctly.
  • Warranty Protection: Many professional repairs come with warranties, offering additional security and protection against future issues.

Understanding diesel transmission error codes is crucial, but the intricacies involved in diagnosing and repairing these issues underscore the importance of professional intervention. By hiring a transmission specialist, vehicle owners can avoid the pitfalls of DIY repairs and ensure their vehicles remain in optimal condition. This resource guide will delve deeper into specific error codes, their meanings, and the best practices for addressing them. Always keep in mind the value of professional expertise when it come to  maintaining the health and performance of your diesel vehicle. Here is an extensive list of all the diagnostic trouble, codes, what it means symptoms of each code and how to fix it.

P0700 – Transmission Control System Malfunction

Description: This code indicates a malfunction in the transmission control system, often pointing to a problem with the transmission control module (TCM).
What it Means: The transmission is not functioning as expected due to a system issue. The vehicle may experience poor shifting, slipping, or failure to shift.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty TCM
-Poor connection to TCM
-Electrical wiring issue

Fix/Solution:

  • Inspect and replace the TCM if defective.
  • Check the wiring for continuity and secure connections.
  • Reset the TCM after repairs and clear the code.

P0702 – Transmission Control System Electrical

Description: This code points to an electrical issue within the transmission control system.
What it Means: There’s a malfunction in the electrical circuits of the transmission control system. This could involve the sensors, solenoids, or wiring.

Possible Causes:

-Wiring short or open in the transmission control system
-Faulty TCM
-Loose or corroded connectors

Fix/Solution:

  • Inspect the wiring for shorts or damage.
  • Test the TCM and replace if necessary.
  • Check connectors and pins for proper contact and corrosion.

P0706 – Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

Description: This code is triggered when the Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) detects a malfunction in its range or performance.
What it Means: The Transmission Range Sensor, which helps the TCM determine the position of the gear lever, is not operating correctly.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty Transmission Range Sensor
-Misaligned gear position
-Wiring or connector issues

Fix/Solution:

  • Inspect and test the Transmission Range Sensor for accuracy.
  • Realign the sensor if out of place.
  • Check wiring and connections for any damage.

P0707 – Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Low Input

Description: The Transmission Range Sensor is not receiving the expected voltage input.
What it Means: The TCM is receiving low input from the sensor, which can affect gear shifting and performance.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty Transmission Range Sensor
-Broken or shorted wiring
-Damaged or corroded connectors

Fix/Solution:

  • Test the sensor and replace it if defective.
  • Inspect and repair any wiring issues.
  • Clean or replace connectors if needed.

P0708 – Transmission Range Sensor Circuit High Input

Description: The Transmission Range Sensor is sending a higher-than-expected voltage to the TCM.
What it Means: The sensor is overloading the TCM with input, leading to incorrect gear shifts.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty Transmission Range Sensor
-Shorted wiring or poor connections

Fix/Solution:

  • Test the sensor and replace if faulty.
  • Inspect the wiring for shorts or damage.

P0711 – Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

Description: This code indicates an issue with the transmission fluid temperature sensor, which monitors the fluid temperature in the transmission.
What it Means: The sensor is reporting an unrealistic temperature, affecting the transmission’s ability to operate efficiently.

Possible Causes:

Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor
Open or shorted wiring
Faulty TCM

Fix/Solution:

  • Test and replace the transmission fluid temperature sensor if necessary.
  • Inspect wiring for damage and repair as needed.
  • Check the TCM and reset it after repairs.

P0712 – Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input

Description: This code indicates that the transmission fluid temperature sensor is sending a low voltage signal.
What it Means: The transmission fluid temperature is being reported as lower than expected, which may trigger incorrect shifting behaviors.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor
-Damaged or corroded wiring
-Poor connection to the sensor

Fix/Solution:

  • Inspect the sensor and wiring, replacing the sensor if needed.
  • Clean or repair any corroded connectors.

P0713 – Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input

Description: The transmission fluid temperature sensor is sending a signal that indicates the fluid temperature is too high.
What it Means: The sensor is reporting an unrealistic high temperature, which could lead to transmission overheating and poor performance.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty sensor
-Short or high resistance in the wiring

Fix/Solution:

  • Test and replace the transmission fluid temperature sensor if defective.
  • Check for any short circuits or poor connections.

P0714 – Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent

Description: This code occurs when there is an intermittent issue with the transmission fluid temperature sensor circuit.
What it Means: The sensor intermittently loses signal, which can cause erratic shifting and incorrect transmission fluid temperature readings.

Possible Causes:

-Loose or corroded connectors
-Intermittent sensor or wiring issue

Fix/Solution:

  • Inspect the wiring for loose connections or breaks.
  • Test the sensor and replace if it exhibits intermittent behavior.

P0715 – Input/Turbine Speed Sensor A Circuit Malfunction

Description: This code indicates a malfunction in the input or turbine speed sensor A circuit, which monitors the speed of the input shaft or turbine in the transmission.
What it Means: The input speed sensor is not functioning as expected, which affects the shifting and operation of the transmission.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty input speed sensor
-Damaged wiring or connectors

Fix/Solution:

  • Inspect and replace the input speed sensor if faulty.
  • Check the wiring for continuity and secure connections.

P0717 – Input/Turbine Speed Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance

Description: This code points to a range or performance issue with the input/turbine speed sensor A.
What it Means: The sensor is reporting values that are outside of the expected range, leading to abnormal transmission behavior.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty input speed sensor
-Incorrect sensor readings due to wiring issues

Fix/Solution:

  • Test and replace the input speed sensor if needed.
  • Inspect wiring and connections for shorts or damage.

P0721 – Output Speed Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

Description: This code indicates a performance issue with the output speed sensor, which monitors the speed of the output shaft in the transmission.
What it Means: The output speed sensor is not operating within the expected range, affecting the transmission’s shifting and performance.

Possible Causes:

  • Faulty output speed sensor
  • Incorrect signal from the sensor due to wiring or electrical issues

Fix/Solution:

  • Test and replace the output speed sensor if defective.
  • Inspect wiring for damage or poor connections.

P0722 – Output Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal

Description: This code is triggered when the output speed sensor fails to send a signal to the TCM.
What it Means: The TCM is not receiving data from the output speed sensor, which can affect the operation of the transmission.

Possible Causes:

  • Faulty output speed sensor
  • Broken or disconnected wiring
  • Fix/Solution:
  • Replace the output speed sensor if needed.
  • Inspect and repair any broken or disconnected wiring.

P0729 – 6th Gear Incorrect Ratio

Description: The Transmission Control Module (TCM) detects that the actual gear ratio in 6th gear does not match the expected ratio.
What It Means
When the vehicle shifts into 6th gear, the TCM compares the input speed (engine RPM) and output speed (driveshaft RPM) to calculate the actual gear ratio. If this value does not align with the expected 6th gear ratio, the code is triggered.

Possible Causes:

  • Faulty sensors or solenoids
  • Mechanical failure within the transmission
  • Clutch failture

Fix/Solution:

  • Inspect sensors and solenoids.
  • Perform a mechanical inspection of the transmission if necessary.
  • Rebuild of transmission.

P0731 – Gear 1 Incorrect Ratio

Description: This code is triggered when the first gear in the transmission does not engage or operates with an incorrect ratio.
What it Means: The vehicle may fail to move or experience issues with acceleration in the first gear.

Possible Causes:

-Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid
-Worn Clutch Pack for 6th Gear
-Faulty Shift Solenoid 
-Valve Body Malfunction 
-Mechanical Damage

Fix/Solution:

  • Test and replace faulty solenoids.
  • Check the transmission fluid level and condition.
  • Inspect for internal transmission damage.

P0732 – Gear 2 Incorrect Ratio

Description: This code is triggered when the second gear in the transmission fails to engage or operates outside the expected ratio.
What it Means: The vehicle may struggle to shift properly into second gear.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty shift solenoids
-Transmission fluid issues
-Internal transmission damage

Fix/Solution:

  • Inspect and replace faulty solenoids.
  • Check the transmission fluid and replace if necessary.
  • Inspect for mechanical failure in the transmission.

P0733 – Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio

Description: This code is triggered when the third gear in the transmission does not engage or operates with an incorrect ratio.
What it Means: The vehicle may experience poor performance, slipping, or failure to engage third gear.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty shift solenoids
-Transmission fluid issues
-Internal transmission damage

Fix/Solution:

  • Test and replace faulty solenoids.
  • Check the transmission fluid level and condition.
  • Inspect for internal transmission damage.

P0734 – Gear 4 Incorrect Ratio

Description: This code is triggered when the fourth gear in the transmission does not engage or operates with an incorrect ratio.
What it Means: The vehicle may fail to shift into fourth gear or experience slipping.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty shift solenoids
-Low or contaminated transmission fluid
-Mechanical failure inside the transmission

Fix/Solution:

  • Test and replace faulty solenoids.
  • Check and refill or replace transmission fluid.
  • Inspect for internal transmission damage.

P0735 – Gear 5 Incorrect Ratio

Description: This code is triggered when the fifth gear in the transmission does not engage or operates with an incorrect ratio.
What it Means: The vehicle may struggle with high-speed performance or fail to shift into fifth gear.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty shift solenoids
-Inadequate transmission fluid pressure
-Mechanical wear or damage

Fix/Solution:

  • Test and replace faulty solenoids.
  • Check and correct transmission fluid levels.
  • Inspect and repair internal transmission components.

P0736 – Reverse Incorrect Ratio

Description: This code indicates an issue with the transmission reverse gear ratio.
What it Means: The vehicle may not move in reverse or may exhibit abnormal performance.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty reverse solenoid
-Transmission fluid problems
-Internal transmission failure

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace or test reverse solenoid.
  • Inspect and address fluid issues.
  • Evaluate and repair internal transmission components.

P0740 – Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Malfunction

Description: This code indicates an issue with the torque converter clutch circuit, preventing proper lockup.
What it Means: The vehicle may experience decreased fuel efficiency, overheating, or shuddering at certain speeds.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty torque converter clutch solenoid
-Wiring issues in the TCC circuit
-Low or dirty transmission fluid

Fix/Solution:

  • Test and replace the TCC solenoid.
  • Inspect and repair wiring or connectors.
  • Check and replace transmission fluid.

P0745 – Pressure Control Solenoid Malfunction

Description: This code indicates a malfunction in the transmission pressure control solenoid, affecting fluid pressure regulation.
What it Means: The transmission may shift harshly, slip, or fail to shift properly.

Possible Causes:

-Defective pressure control solenoid
-Blocked fluid passages
-Low or contaminated transmission fluid

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the faulty solenoid.
  • Flush the transmission system.
  • Refill or replace the transmission fluid.

P0750 – Shift Solenoid A Malfunction

Description: This code is triggered when shift solenoid A fails to function correctly.
What it Means: The transmission may not shift properly, causing erratic or stuck gears.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty shift solenoid A
-Damaged wiring or connectors
-Transmission fluid issues

Fix/Solution:

  • Test and replace solenoid A.
  • Inspect wiring and connectors for damage.
  • Check and replace fluid as needed.

P0755 – Shift Solenoid B Malfunction

Description: This code is triggered when shift solenoid B fails to function correctly.
What it Means: The vehicle may experience gear shifting issues, including stuck or slipping gears.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty shift solenoid B
-Wiring or connector problems
-Low or dirty transmission fluid

Fix/Solution:

  • Test and replace solenoid B.
  • Repair damaged wiring or connectors.
  • Check and replace fluid as necessary.

P0760 – Shift Solenoid C Malfunction

Description: This code indicates a problem with shift solenoid C.
What it Means: The vehicle may fail to shift into certain gears or experience erratic shifting.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty shift solenoid C
-Wiring or connector problems
-Contaminated or insufficient transmission fluid

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace solenoid C if faulty.
  • Inspect and repair electrical connections.
  • Check fluid condition and refill or replace.

P0765 – Shift Solenoid D Malfunction

Description: This code indicates a malfunction in shift solenoid D.
What it Means: The transmission may experience rough or incorrect gear shifts.

Possible Causes:

-Defective shift solenoid D
-Wiring or connector faults
-Transmission fluid problems

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the faulty solenoid.
  • Repair wiring and connectors.
  • Address transmission fluid issues.

P0770 – Shift Solenoid E Malfunction

Description: This code indicates an issue with shift solenoid E.
What it Means: The vehicle may shift erratically or fail to engage certain gears.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty shift solenoid E
-Electrical issues in the solenoid circuit
-Low or contaminated transmission fluid

Fix/Solution:

  • Test and replace solenoid E if needed.
  • Repair electrical connections.
  • Refill or replace transmission fluid.

P0841 – Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch A Circuit Range/Performance

Description: This code indicates that the transmission fluid pressure sensor A is not operating within its specified range.
What it Means: The vehicle may experience delayed or erratic shifting.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty transmission fluid pressure sensor
-Wiring or connector issues
-Low or dirty transmission fluid

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the faulty pressure sensor.
  • Inspect and repair wiring or connectors.
  • Check and refill or replace transmission fluid.

P0845 – Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch B Circuit Range/Performance

Description: This code is triggered when transmission fluid pressure sensor B operates outside its expected range.
What it Means: The transmission may not shift properly or may slip.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty transmission fluid pressure sensor B
-Wiring or electrical faults
-Transmission fluid problems

Fix/Solution:

  • Test and replace the faulty sensor.
  • Repair damaged wiring or connections.
  • Check and service transmission fluid.

P0846 – Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch B Circuit Low

Description: This code indicates that the transmission fluid pressure sensor B circuit is reading low pressure.
What it Means: The vehicle may struggle to shift gears or fail to engage gears.

Possible Causes:

-Malfunctioning pressure sensor B
-Fluid blockage or leakage
-Electrical issues in the circuit

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Inspect fluid passages for blockages.
  • Repair wiring or connectors.

P0854 – Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch D Circuit Low

Description: This code is triggered when the fluid pressure sensor D circuit reads low pressure.
What it Means: The transmission may have trouble shifting into higher gears.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty fluid pressure sensor D
-Electrical circuit malfunction
-Low transmission fluid

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the pressure sensor.
  • Repair electrical connections.
  • Check and refill transmission fluid.

P0868 – Transmission Fluid Pressure Low

Description: This code indicates that the transmission fluid pressure is below the required level for proper operation.
What it Means: The vehicle may exhibit delayed shifting, slipping, or fail to engage gears.

Possible Causes:

-Low transmission fluid level
-Blocked or leaking fluid lines
-Faulty transmission pump

Fix/Solution:

  • Refill transmission fluid to the proper level.
  • Inspect fluid lines for blockages or leaks.
  • Test and replace the transmission pump if necessary.

P0869 – Transmission Fluid Pressure High

Description: This code indicates that the transmission fluid pressure is higher than the acceptable range.
What it Means: The vehicle may shift harshly or exhibit erratic gear changes.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty transmission pressure regulator
-Blocked fluid passages
-Faulty pressure sensor

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the pressure regulator or sensor.
  • Inspect for and clear fluid blockages.

P0870 – Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch C Circuit Range/Performance

Description: This code indicates that the transmission fluid pressure sensor C is not functioning within the expected range.
What it Means: The transmission may experience poor shifting performance.

Possible Causes:

-Defective fluid pressure sensor C
-Electrical faults in the sensor circuit
-Transmission fluid issues

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the sensor if faulty.
  • Repair wiring or electrical connections.
  • Refill or replace transmission fluid.

P0871 – Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch C Circuit High

Description: This code indicates that the pressure sensor C is reporting abnormally high pressure.
What it Means: The vehicle may shift harshly or have difficulty engaging gears.

Possible Causes:

-Malfunctioning pressure sensor C
-Electrical issues in the circuit
-Blocked fluid passages

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Repair wiring or connectors.
  • Clear fluid passages of blockages.

P0875 – Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch D Circuit Range/Performance

Description: This code indicates an issue with the transmission fluid pressure sensor D operating outside its expected range.
What it Means: The transmission may not shift smoothly or at all.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty sensor D
-Wiring or electrical faults
-Fluid pressure irregularities

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the sensor.
  • Repair electrical issues.
  • Check and service fluid system.

P0876 – Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch D Circuit Low

Description: This code is triggered when the fluid pressure sensor D circuit reports a low pressure reading.
What it Means: The vehicle may experience delayed or failed gear engagement.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty fluid pressure sensor D
-Wiring or circuit issues
-Low or contaminated transmission fluid

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Inspect and repair wiring or connectors.
  • Check and refill or replace transmission fluid.

P0882 – TCM Power Input Signal Low


Description: This code indicates that the Transmission Control Module (TCM) is receiving a low input voltage.
What it Means: The transmission may enter limp mode or fail to shift.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty TCM power supply
-Battery or alternator issues
-Damaged wiring or connectors

Fix/Solution:

  • Check and restore the power supply to the TCM.
  • Inspect the battery and alternator.
  • Repair or replace damaged wiring.

P0883 – TCM Power Input Signal High

Description: This code indicates that the Transmission Control Module (TCM) is receiving a voltage higher than the specified range.
What it Means: The vehicle may experience erratic shifting or enter limp mode.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty alternator or regulator
-Electrical short or damaged wiring
-Malfunctioning TCM

Fix/Solution:

  • Inspect and repair the alternator or voltage regulator.
  • Repair damaged wiring or connectors.
  • Test and replace the TCM if necessary.

P0884 – TCM Power Input Intermittent

Description: This code indicates an intermittent loss of power input to the Transmission Control Module (TCM).
What it Means: The transmission may operate inconsistently or enter limp mode.

Possible Causes:

-Loose or corroded battery connections
-Intermittent wiring or connector faults
-Faulty TCM

Fix/Solution:

  • Check and secure battery and electrical connections.
  • Repair damaged wiring or connectors.
  • Replace the TCM if needed.

P0890 – Transmission Control System Relay Sense Circuit Low

Description: This code indicates a low voltage signal in the transmission control system relay sense circuit.
What it Means: The vehicle may fail to engage gears or enter limp mode.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty relay or relay connections
-Damaged wiring or circuit issues
-Malfunctioning TCM

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the faulty relay.
  • Inspect and repair the circuit or wiring.
  • Test and replace the TCM if required.

P0933 – Hydraulic Pressure Sensor Range/Performance

Description: This code indicates that the hydraulic pressure sensor is operating outside its expected range.
What it Means: The transmission may experience delayed shifts, slipping, or harsh shifting.

Possible Causes:

-Defective hydraulic pressure sensor
-Low or contaminated transmission fluid
-Wiring or connector issues

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Check and replace the transmission fluid.
  • Repair damaged wiring or connectors.

P0934 – Hydraulic Pressure Sensor Circuit Low

Description: This code is triggered when the hydraulic pressure sensor circuit reports a low pressure signal.
What it Means: The vehicle may fail to engage gears or shift properly.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty hydraulic pressure sensor
-Fluid blockage or leakage
-Circuit wiring issues

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Inspect fluid passages and repair blockages.
  • Repair damaged wiring or connections.

P0935 – Hydraulic Pressure Sensor Circuit High

Description: This code indicates that the hydraulic pressure sensor circuit is reporting abnormally high pressure.
What it Means: The transmission may shift harshly or fail to shift smoothly.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty hydraulic pressure sensor
-Fluid blockage causing pressure buildup
-Circuit or wiring issues

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the sensor if faulty.
  • Clear fluid blockages.
  • Repair wiring or connectors.

P0944 – Hydraulic Pump Loss of Prime

Description: This code indicates that the hydraulic pump has lost prime, disrupting fluid flow.
What it Means: The transmission may not function correctly, resulting in shifting issues or total failure.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty hydraulic pump
-Low or leaking transmission fluid
-Blocked fluid lines

Fix/Solution:

  • Inspect and replace the hydraulic pump if necessary.
  • Check for fluid leaks and refill.
  • Clear fluid line blockages.

P0957 – Auto Shift Manual Mode Circuit Low

Description: This code indicates a low voltage signal in the auto shift manual mode circuit.
What it Means: Manual shifting may not function correctly, or the vehicle may remain in a single gear.

Possible Causes:

-Faulty auto shift manual mode switch
-Damaged wiring or connectors
-Transmission Control Module (TCM) issues

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the manual mode switch if faulty.
  • Inspect and repair wiring or connectors.
  • Test and replace the TCM if required.

P0958 – Auto Shift Manual Mode Circuit High


Description:
This code indicates a high voltage signal in the auto shift manual mode circuit.
What it Means: The vehicle may experience erratic shifting or fail to enter manual mode.

Possible Causes:

-Malfunctioning manual mode switch
-Wiring or circuit faults
-TCM problems

Fix/Solution:

  • Replace the faulty manual mode switch.
  • Repair damaged wiring or connectors.
  • Test and replace the TCM if necessary.