Looking for the meaning of P0705 code? You’re in the right place. In this article, we talk about the meaning, cause and possible solutions to the “Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction”, or P0705 Code.

Meaning and Cause of P0705 Code

P0705 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for 'Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction (PRNDL Input)'. This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. P0705 Transmission Range Sensor A Circuit. After looking around into the forum and on other websites I ended up to the following possible scenarios that might be causing the problem: 1. Shifter might went bad 2. Neutral safety switch might went bad. Oil leaking into the wires through transmission harness plug / connector Do you guys have any.

First things first – is this a generic or a manufacturer-specific Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)? Because it starts with P0xxx, the P0705 is a generic powertrain code, meaning it covers all vehicles with OBD-II systems, or all newer makes and models (1996 and newer). Normally, generic DTCs will exhibit similar symptoms across all newer vehicles, however, the specific diagnostic and repair steps will vary from model to model.

What Does the P0705 Code Mean?

This DTC indicates a problem with a part of your vehicle known as Transmission Range Sensor or Transmission Gear Position switch. Another common name for this part is Park Neutral Position switch, or PNP switch. When the Transmission Control Module (TCM) receives an erroneous input from this particular sensor, your Engine Control Module (ECM) will light up your Check Engine Light.

To explain in more detail, we need to address the location and function of the Transmission Range Sensor (TRS). Usually, it’s found on the outside of the transmission box, but sometimes, it can be located inside the transmission on the valve body. Its function is to inform the TCM, and by extension the ECM, of gear selection or the position of the shift lever. If the ECM doesn’t receive an input, P0705 occurs. There is another way this DTC may set – if the ECM receives an illogical input. For instance, if you’re driving 60 mph but the TRS informs the ECM that the vehicle is in reverse, the code P0705 will occur. Likewise, if the TRS becomes so faulty that it tells the ECM that it’s in more than one gear at the same time, the code P0705 will set.

Finally, there are different types of TRS and it’s important to differentiate between each as diagnostic and repair steps will vary from type to type:

• The Contact TRS

This type consists of a set of wires that communicate with the ECM, letting it know the exact shift lever position. This is possible because each position of the shifter has its own wire.

• The Pressure Range Switch

This type is mounted on the valve body of the transmission. There are various passages for the transmission fluid which get open and closed as the shifter is moved, which is how this type of the sensor knows when the position moves.

• The Variable Resistor

Containing a series of resistors tied to one voltage output, this type is designed to absorb a certain amount of voltage. Because each gear has its own resistor that will be used depending on the shifter positioning (park, reverse, neutral, drive, low, or PRNDL), the sensor knows when and which position moves.

But What Causes the Code P0705?

Sine there are several types of the TRS, there can be various causes for the occurrence of this DTC. The most common ones include:

• Short or open in the TRS circuit
• Loose or damaged TRS
• Defective transmission range sensor
• Loose or damaged connector at the external TRS
• Misadjusted shift linkage
• Contaminated/bad transmission fluid
• Blockage in the internal valve body TRS port
• Faulty transmission valve body
• Low voltage
• Damaged TCM or ECM (rare)

Symptoms of the P0705 Code

The P0705 code can have a variety of symptoms, including the following:

• Check Engine Light is on
• The vehicle may experience a no start condition
• Harsh/erratic shifting
• The vehicle may start in any gear
• Poor fuel economy
• The car may only start in neutral
• No reverse lights
• The vehicle may not go in or out of gear

Diagnosing and Repairing the P0705 Code

Although a very common cause for this DTC is a defective TRS, this is not always the case. Often, the problem will lie in a misadjusted TRS, where the solution is to simply adjust it. However, mechanics will sometimes replace the sensor in error. This is a costly mistake. Another common mistake when diagnosing the P0705 code is not checking the fluid level and condition. If the fluid is low, contaminated or both, the code P0705 code can occur, plus several other problems. To avoid these common but easily solvable issues, it’s crucial to start and perform the diagnostic and repair process following the right steps.

Note: If you have an extensive auto knowledge, you may be able to do this with the help of a friend. Otherwise, it’s highly advisable you hire a professional as diagnosing and repairing P0705 code can be tricky.

• Plug the OBD-II scanner into the DLC port. Record all stored codes and freeze frame data.
• Start the inspection by checking the fluid level and condition, as well as the condition of the transmission. If all is well there, inspect the electrical connection on the TRS. This is especially important if the switch is mounted externally because it’s susceptible to road dirt, grime and moisture which can damage the connection. Also, verify that the TRS has a proper voltage.
• For the Contact type TRS

Probe each wire, and at the same time, change the gears to verify there is correct output (this is why at least two people, preferably mechanics should do the inspection, diagnosis and repair of this DTC). If all works well, there will be a change in the voltage every time the gear position is changed.

• For the Variable Resistor Type

Using a multimeter, measure the amount of voltage that the reference wire outputs. This needs to be done because the reference wire sends a different voltage to the ECM every time the gear is changed. So, if the voltage doesn’t change or appears to be nonexistent, the problem is either in the sensor itself or reference wire.

• For the Pressure Range Switch Type

Because most of these types of sensors use a ground connection as their form of output, a mechanic needs to verify which wires are actually output to ground. To do this, gear position needs to be changed so that the valve body lets the transmission fluid go through different passages. As it travels through one of the passages, the TRS will output that ground. Of course, to find out which wire corresponds to which gear, you’ll need a wiring diagram of the sensor.

So, the following fixes can help resolve the P0705 code:

• Repairing a short or open in the TRS circuit
• Adjusting a misadjusted TRS
• Replacing a damaged TRS
• Changing the transmission fluid and/or filter
• Rarely, replacing the (faulty) ECM.

Additional Information about the P0705 Code

Because there are different types of TRS, inspecting, diagnosing and repairing P0705 may require a lot of work. For this reason, and also because two people are usually necessary to inspect the vehicle, it’s recommended you hire a professional to deal with this DTC.

Code Explanations

These links will provide more detailed insights into what code means in your vehicle:

P0303 Code
P0456 Code
P0155 Code
P0430 Code

Be sure to also read our essential guide to the best OBD2 Scanner.

Sources:

1. P0705 OBD-II Trouble Code – YourMechanic
2. How to Read and Understand OBD Codes – wikiHow

Description

What does this mean?

OBD2 Code P0705 Mercedes definition:
The park/neutral position (PNP) switch includes a transmission range switch. The transmission range switch detects the selector lever position when the shift lever is in the N or P shift position and sends a signal to the Transmission Control Module (TCM).

Symptoms

P0705 Mercedes C240

Possible sumptoms of OBD code P0705 Mercedes
– Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)

Causes

Possible causes of OBD code P0705 Mercedes
– Open or short park/neutral position switch circuit – Poor park/neutral position switch circuit connection – Misadjusted park/neutral position switch – Park/neutral position switch may be faulty The Error code is generally activated on detection of the following conditions: The transmission range switch detects the selector lever position and sends a signal to the TCM.

The OBD2 Code Information Be Applicable For Mercedes-Benz:

2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT,2013 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG,2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550,2013 Mercedes-Benz SL500,2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class,2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 4Matic,2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class,2013 Mercedes-Benz GL63 AMG,2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class,2013 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6×6 Concept,2013 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG,2013 Mercedes-Benz G550,2013 Mercedes-Benz G350 Bluetec,2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class,2013 Mercedes-Benz E300 BlueTEC Hybrid,2013 Mercedes-Benz Citan,2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake,2013 Mercedes-Benz A-Class AMG Sport,2013 Mercedes-Benz A-Class,2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster,2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG,2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK350,2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK250 CDI,2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class,2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG,2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class,2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Wagon,2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG,2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG,2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS550,2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS350 CDI,2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class,2012 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG,2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class,2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class,2011 Mercedes-Benz Vito,2011 Mercedes-Benz Viano,2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG,2011 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG,2011 Mercedes-Benz S600 Pullman Guard,2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class,2011 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG,2011 Mercedes-Benz G-Class,2011 Mercedes-Benz F125 Concept,2011 Mercedes-Benz E550 Cabriolet,2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet,2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 4Matic Wagon,2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class L,2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet,2011 Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG,2011 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG,2011 Mercedes-Benz CL500,2011 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class,2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class DR 520,2011 Mercedes-Benz B55 Concept,2011 Mercedes-Benz A-Class E-CELL,2011 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Concept,2010 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG,2010 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG,2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 BlueHYBRID,2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class,2010 Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid,2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class,2010 Mercedes-Benz GL550,2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Estate,2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG,2010 Mercedes-Benz E550 Coupe,2010 Mercedes-Benz E550,2010 Mercedes-Benz E350 Coupe,2010 Mercedes-Benz E350,2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class,2010 Mercedes-Benz Biome Concept,2010 Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-Cell,2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG,2009 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG,2009 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class,2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG,2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class,2009 Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG,2009 Mercedes-Benz G-Class,2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG,2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 280,2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC,2009 Mercedes-Benz B-Class,2009 Mercedes-Benz A-Class,2008 Mercedes-Benz SL,2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR,2008 Mercedes-Benz R-Class,2008 Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG,2008 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG,2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class,2007 Mercedes-Benz S 63 AMG,2007 Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard,2007 Mercedes-Benz S 500 4MATIC,2007 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG,2007 Mercedes-Benz S550,2007 Mercedes-Benz R 63 AMG,2007 Mercedes-Benz G-Class,2007 Mercedes-Benz CL 63 AMG,2007 Mercedes-Benz CL 600,2007 Mercedes-Benz CL 500,2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG,2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 CGI,2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG,2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 600,2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 55 AMG,2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 500,2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 350,2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG SS,2006 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class,2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class,2006 Mercedes-Benz R500,2006 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG,2006 Mercedes-Benz ML500,2006 Mercedes-Benz ML350,2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 420 CDI,2006 Mercedes-Benz GL450,2006 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class,2006 Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG,2006 Mercedes-Benz E-Class,2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG,2006 Mercedes-Benz B200 CDI,2006 Mercedes-Benz B150,2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK350,2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS500,2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK350,2005 Mercedes-Benz AClass

Note:

1. The list of automotive Makes at the right edge of the screen. The currently selected ODB-ii codes is for the Mercedes-Benz makes.

P0705 Mercedes E320

2. Look up the other OBD II Trouble Codes, please use the search box. Enter the 5 character trouble codes in the search box and submit the search.

P0705 Transmission Range Sensor

3. Don’t assume a particular OBD-II code means the same for other auto manufacturers as there are many makes specific codes in use.

4. If your OBD-II trouble codes are for a different car, select that vehicle series before searching for the diagnostic codes because not all OBD2 codes used by one manufacture are used by the other makes.

P0705 Mercedes E320

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