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P0700: Transmission Control System Malfunction

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What is P0700?

P0700 on a scan tool is a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) defined as Transmission Control System Malfunction.” When your transmission control module (TCM) detects an issue with the automatic transmission system, it triggers this generic code

Your engine computer and TCM monitor the sensors and actuators to shift gears when necessary. 

However, faulty connectors or sensors can cause the TCM to send a Malfunction Indicator Lamp request (MIL request) to the engine control module (ECM). The computer then activates the P0700 code.

NOTE: Since DTC P0700 is a generic code, it doesn’t indicate which component is in poor condition. An accurate diagnosis of the transmission will help determine the problem.

What Are the Symptoms of Error Code P0700?

Besides an illuminated Check Engine light or MIL (the first sign a person will notice), additional symptoms of P0700 include:

What Are the Causes of P0700?

Your vehicle may register P0700 due to:

1. Low or dirty transmission fluid: If your car is running on low or contaminated fluid, it may force the metal components to rattle and overheat, registering a fault code.

2. Faulty TCM power connectors or wiring: Loose wires can deliver insufficient power signals and prevent the TCM from transmitting important information efficiently, leading to transmission problems. 

3. Malfunctioning transmission range sensor: The sensor detects the gear position and communicates this data to the TCM. If the sensor degrades, it may disrupt the communication, activating the error code.   

4. Defective transmission shift solenoids: These solenoids control the flow of transmission fluid. However, if the fluid’s quality deteriorates due to contamination, the solenoids will get stuck and cause shifting issues

5. Slipping converter clutch: A functional torque converter clutch ensures your gears shift seamlessly. But if the clutch malfunctions, the gears won’t change smoothly, which will trigger P0700.

6. Bad engine coolant temperature sensor (ECT): Your engine computer uses temperature sensor data for optimal shifting points. However, a coolant leak can degrade the sensor, causing poor communication between the two, resulting in transmission issues.

7. Defective transmission valve body: The valve body helps with smooth gear shifting. But if it’s clogged with sludge, it’ll deteriorate quickly, which could lead to gear slipping problems.

Can You Still Drive with a P0700 Trouble Code?

No. 

The P0700 error code indicates transmission issues, so you must discontinue driving immediately.

Here’s the thing:
Driving with a P0700 code can cause problems, such as transmission overheating and poor shifting. You don’t want to be stuck in fourth gear when you’re meant to be in second one. You also run the risk of damaging your transmission system, which will cost a lot of money to repair.

How to Diagnose a P0700 Code

To identify the problem, you need to perform a quality inspection of the transmission components and use a diagnostic tool. Fulfilling these criteria can be demanding for an inexperienced person. So, visit a dealership or ask a mechanic for a quality service

Here’s how they’ll determine the transmission control system malfunction

1. Use an OBD-II scan tool to check for any additional transmission codes and address them.

2. Access and download the freeze frame data (a collection of important information the ECM records in its memory) for more accurate troubleshooting. 

3. Inspect the transmission fluid level and assess its quality to determine whether it’s contaminated

4. Check the wires’ condition in your transmission module to ensure they aren’t faulty.  

5. Use a multimeter to test voltage levels at the power connection points between the TCM and engine control module or powertrain control module (PCM).

6. Measure the transmission range sensor’s resistance using an ohmmeter. If it hasn’t run its course and failed, its resistance should be around 1,000 ohms.

7. Test drive the vehicle to compare the revolutions per minute (RPM) of your torque converter with the input shaft’s RPM. If it exceeds 10 RPM, you have a malfunctioning converter clutch.

3 Crucial Mistakes to Avoid During a Diagnosis

Inaccurate troubleshooting can lead to grave errors, like: 

1. Misidentification: P0700 is often misunderstood as a misfire rather than a TCM malfunction, especially when the car stalls or jerks. Since fixing these issues requires different measures, it could lead to needless repairs.

2. Failure to identify additional faulty wires: The transmission control module, coolant sensor, and other parts may have loose or corroded wires that need attention. Skipping thorough inspection could result in missing a crucial repair service

3. Hyper-focus on one fault code: When the TCM malfunctions, more than one code, such as P0613 and P0706, may be active. Missing these transmission codes can leave certain issues unaddressed. 

If you notice signs of the P0700 code and have questions about the issue, call an expert for assistance and an accurate diagnosis.

Possible Repairs for P0700 & Costs

To clear the code, your mechanic will perform the following repair and maintenance services:

  • Flush or top-up transmission fluid level as per the requirements. 
  • Change all wires and connectors between your TCM, ECM, and PCM.
  • Install a new transmission range sensor or transmission shift solenoid.
  • Repair or replace the faulty TCM to clear other OBD2 codes, such as P0613.  
  • Update the TCM’s software and use a multimeter to check whether it’s working. 
  • Change the transmission valve body or install a new transmission.

Once the repair is complete, the mechanic will clear the fault codes using the diagnostic tool and test-drive the vehicle

Now let’s look at how much money you’ll require for these maintenance and repair services:

NOTE: These estimates will vary between different car models, such as Toyota, Chevrolet, and Dodge. To get a fair estimate and answers to cost-related questions, contact a mechanic for guidance. 

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