P0705

Transmission Range Sensor A Circuit (PRNDL Input)

Transmission range sensor Generic OBD-II High

What it means

P0705 means the transmission range sensor — the switch that tells the computer whether you're in Park, Reverse, Neutral, or Drive — is sending an invalid signal. Because this input also drives the start interlock and shift logic, it can cause a no-start in Park, a wrong gear reading on the dash, and erratic shifting.

High

Can I keep driving? May not start unless the shifter is jiggled or set to Neutral, and shifting can be erratic. Get it fixed before relying on the vehicle.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

433

scans in the past year

Found in

0.1%

of scans

0.1%

of scans that found faults

Figures reflect only diagnostic scans recorded through our own apps and tools. Cars are typically scanned because a symptom or warning light prompted it, so these counts describe our scan records — not the incidence of faults in any model, and not the quality, reliability, or safety of any vehicle. No comparison between manufacturers or models is implied. All trademarks belong to their respective owners; no affiliation or endorsement is implied.

Common symptoms

What you'll notice

No crank/no-start in Park (may start in Neutral)
Wrong gear shown on the dash, or no gear indication
Harsh, delayed, or wrong-gear shifting
Transmission defaults to a limp / fail-safe mode
Check-engine light on

Common causes

Most likely first

Faulty transmission range sensor (neutral safety / PRNDL switch)Likely
Misadjusted range sensor or shift linkageCommon
Damaged or corroded wiring or connector at the sensorCommon
Failed transmission control moduleLess often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Scan and compare the gear the module reports with the actual shifter position.
Check the range sensor adjustment and shift linkage alignment first — a common, cheap fix.
Inspect the sensor's wiring and connector for corrosion or damage.
Test the sensor's signal through the gear range for dropouts.
Replace or re-adjust the range sensor as needed. Clear and re-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0705?+

Use caution. The car may refuse to start in Park or shift into the wrong gear, and the safety interlock can behave unpredictably. Have it diagnosed promptly.

Can I just clear P0705?+

It returns until the range sensor or its adjustment is corrected. Because it ties into the start interlock and shift logic, fix the cause rather than clearing it.

Read & clear P0705 yourself

Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.

▶ Get it on Google Play

✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX