P0711 Code: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor “A” Circuit Range / Performance

Finding out what a trouble code means may seem like a difficult task, but it’s an important step in fixing the underlying issue with your vehicle. If this is your first time encountering the P0711 code, this guide will help you understand its meaning, possible causes, and common symptoms.

What Does the P0711 Code Mean?

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0711 stands for “Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor “A” Circuit Range/Performance” This code is set when the powertrain control module (PCM) detects a signal from the transmission temperature sensor that does not match the expected values.

On a GM vehicle, these are the conditions for setting code P0711:

Condition 1

• The transmission fluid temperature at startup is −40 to +20°C (−40 to +68°F).
• The vehicle speed is greater than 8 km/h (5 mph) for 300 seconds (5 minutes) cumulatively.
• The transmission fluid temperature has not changed by more than 2°C (4°F) since startup for 80 seconds.

Condition 2

• The transmission fluid temperature at startup is 129–149°C (264–300°F).
• The vehicle speed is greater than 8 km/h (5 mph) for 300 seconds (5 minutes) cumulatively.
• The transmission fluid temperature has not changed by more than 2°C (4°F) since startup for 80 seconds.

Condition 3

• The transmission fluid temperature has changed by 20°C (36°F) or greater within 250 milliseconds; 14 times within7 seconds.

These conditions are easy to understand: the ECM knows if the Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) sensor starts out cold and doesn’t change, there’s a problem. Also, if the TFT starts out really hot and doesn’t change, there’s a problem. Finally, if the TFT input is bouncing around all over the place, there’s a problem.

The transmission fluid temperature (TFT) sensor is a sensor that’s typically located in the transmission valve body, behind the oil pan. The PCM uses the signals from this sensor when calculating parameters, such as torque converter clutch (TCC) control, shift points, and line pressure.

The TFT sensor receives a reference voltage from the PCM and varies its internal resistance in relation to the temperature of the transmission fluid. The TFT sensor is a type of negative temperature coefficient thermistor, which means that its internal resistance is inversely proportional to the transmission fluid’s temperature. Simply put, the TFT sensor’s signal voltage goes down when the transmission fluid’s temperature goes up, and vice versa.

If the PCM detects a performance problem with the transmission fluid temperature sensor, it may set the trouble code 0711.

Note: The definition of code P0711 may be different depending on the vehicle manufacturer. Consult the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.

What are the Common Causes of the P0711 Code?

Like other trouble codes, the P0711 has several possible causes. Below are some of the most common causes of this code:

• Defective transmission fluid temperature sensor
• Wiring issues
• Transmission internal problems
• An issue with the powertrain control module (PCM) or transmission control module (TCM)

What are the Common Symptoms of the P0711 Code?

When the trouble code P0711 is set, the PCM may illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). Aside from that, you may also encounter other symptoms. Below are some of the common symptoms you may notice if you’re dealing with this code:

• Illuminated check engine light
• Transmission temperature warning light may illuminate
• Abnormal torque converter clutch operation
• Transmission may not shift properly
• Vehicle stuck in limp mode

How to Diagnose the P0711 Code

Determining the root cause of the problem is the first step in fixing any OBD-II code. As mentioned above, the P0711 code has several possible causes, so you may need to consult an expert mechanic or technician to find out what the issue is.

If you want to do your own research and know more about the P0711 code, there are a few resources that explain the diagnostic and repair procedures in more detail.

The following video demonstrates what the diagnostic process might involve:

How to Fix the P0711 Code

Several trouble codes have the same symptoms, probable causes, and affected areas, but that doesn’t mean that there’s a single solution for every code. Before you can even plan on fixing the trouble code P0711, you need to get to the bottom of things and determine the root cause first. Plus, you also need to find out the prescribed repair procedure for your specific vehicle.

Good thing there are a lot of auto repair resources and guides that you can use to figure out the right fix. Vehicle-specific repair manuals are a great place to start because they contain detailed repair information for your vehicle’s specific make and model. They also have illustrations and diagrams to help you understand the issue better.

Note that if you’re not familiar with OBD-II repairs, it may be best to have a certified mechanic do the job for you, so you can avoid problems and more expensive repairs down the line.

Other Notes About P0711

Driving with the P0711 code is not advised. In some cases, the P0711 may indicate a transmission problem, so it’s recommended that you take your vehicle to a repair shop for diagnosis and repair as soon as possible.

Other TFT sensor-related trouble codes include the P0710, P0712, P0713, and P0714.