Fault Code P0706: Problem with Transmission Range Sensor

Looks like you’ve got another diagnostic message that doesn’t look good—a P0706 code.  But what is it, and how serious is it? 

What Range Sensors Do

Probably a lesser-known component than other parts of automatic transmissions, range sensors play an important role. 

Also referred to as a “neutral safety switch,” the range sensor is a communication device that tells your transmission what gear you’re in, so that the engine will start only if the car’s in park or neutral.  

Range sensors are usually located immediately outside of the transmission box either to the left or right, depending on the make and model of your car.

 Sound trivial?  It’s not:  When the sensor fails to send correct the correct signal to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), your transmission won’t respond to the gear you’ve selected, and you may have one or more of the following problems: 

• Your engine won’t start, because it thinks you’re not in park or neutral
• Your gears will slip uncontrollably
• You may be stuck in a low gear, or even in reverse

 Obviously, these problems can present some serious driving hazards; in the long run, they can wreck your transmission. 

You need to take care of the problem ASAP or potentially face catastrophic damage. 

Bad Sensors and How to Fix Them

There’s no one single reason the P0706 code might show up.  The sensor itself can be damaged, there may an electrical problem (such as a short), or the cable to the transmission could be bad. 

Excessively rough driving, or driving through high water could be to blame for any of these problems. Even the age of the transmission, or normal wear and tear could lead to sensor failure. 

The worst-case scenario is that the sensor itself is malfunctioning, in which case replacement, rather than attempted repair, is your best option. 

The good news is that, all things considered, it’s not too costly to replace; you can buy the sensor itself for less than $200, and the job isn’t very labor-intensive.  Replacing cables, electrical parts, and other peripherals costs even less. 

Sun Transmissions to the Rescue

 If you’re having automatic transmission problems, Sun Transmissions is the transmission parts store that has what you need.  We’re experts on transmissions, power steering parts, and other parts and accessories for your vehicle, such as transmission overhaul kits, power steering pump rebuild kit, bands, seal kits and more.  If you’re in the Miami area, come by and see us, or reach out to us by phone or e-mail—we’ll ship anywhere in the U.S.