Transmission · Powertrain · generic (SAE-defined)
P0705: Transmission Range Sensor "A" Circuit (PRNDL Input)
P0705 means the transmission or engine computer received an invalid signal from the transmission range sensor, the switch that reports which gear the selector is in (PRNDL).
Standard title per SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 · Updated 2026-11-07 · By CarWhere Research
How P0705 sets
The transmission range sensor, sometimes called a neutral safety switch, tells the transmission control module (TCM) or powertrain control module (PCM) the gear selector position. The module expects one valid combination of signals at a time. If it sees an impossible combination, no valid position, or an open or shorted circuit, it sets P0705.
Common causes of P0705
Roughly most likely first; the actual cause depends on the vehicle and needs testing to confirm.
- Failed transmission range sensor
- Range sensor out of adjustment
- Shift cable or linkage misadjusted or worn
- Damaged wiring or corroded range sensor connector
- Fluid leak contaminating the sensor or connector
- TCM or PCM fault
P0705 symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Engine will not crank in Park, or cranks in Neutral only
- Gear indicator on the dash incorrect or blank
- Reverse lights not working
- Erratic shifting or transmission in limp mode
How P0705 is diagnosed
- Record freeze frame data and any other transmission codes
- Compare the selector position with the range reading in live data for every gear
- Check shift cable and linkage adjustment
- Inspect the range sensor connector and harness for damage, leaks and corrosion
- Test the range sensor circuits for continuity, shorts and correct signals per the service manual
- Replace or adjust the sensor, then recheck live data in all positions
Typical fixes for P0705
- Adjust the transmission range sensor or shift linkage
- Replace the transmission range sensor
- Repair damaged wiring or connectors
- Fix leaks that contaminate the sensor
- Replace or program the TCM if it is faulty
Replace parts only after testing confirms the cause — a code names the circuit or condition that failed a check, not necessarily the faulty part. We don’t publish per-repair prices; for what households actually spend on upkeep, see car repair costs.
Manufacturer notes
Definitions can vary by manufacturer; on some vehicles the sensor is internal to the transmission, so check factory service information for location and testing.
Related codes & warning lights
P0705 FAQ
What does code P0705 mean?
P0705 means the transmission or engine computer received an invalid signal from the transmission range sensor, the switch that reports which gear the selector is in (PRNDL). The standard definition is "Transmission Range Sensor "A" Circuit (PRNDL Input)."
Can I drive with a P0705 code?
Not recommended beyond a short trip to a shop. A faulty range signal can cause wrong-gear engagement, no-start, missing reverse lights, or, in rare cases, the engine starting in gear.
Is the range sensor the same as the neutral safety switch?
On many vehicles, yes. The range sensor combines the neutral safety function with gear position reporting for the transmission computer.
Can a misadjusted shift cable cause P0705?
Yes. If the cable does not move the sensor fully into each detent, the computer may see an invalid position even though the sensor itself works.
Keep researching
More transmission codes
Sources
- SAE J2012 — Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (standard code titles)
- ISO 15031-6 — Road vehicles: communication between vehicle and external equipment for emissions-related diagnostics, Part 6: Diagnostic trouble code definitions
- U.S. EPA — Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs
- U.S. EPA, 40 CFR 86.1806-17 — Federal onboard diagnostics requirements for light-duty vehicles
General information written by CarWhere Research, not a diagnosis of your vehicle. Manufacturers can add their own sub-definitions and test conditions; confirm with the factory service information for your year, make and model. Before paying for a repair, check NHTSA for open recalls and your warranty booklet: federal law requires an emissions warranty on major emission-control parts such as the catalytic converter and engine computer.