Error Code P0701: What It Means & What To Do?

<<See All OBD Codes

Struggling to solve the error code P0701? Well, you have landed just at the right place. Here’s a little guide from Parts Avatar that’s surely going to help you crack the code P0701. This OBD-II generic powertrain code P0701 strictly focuses on the transmission control system Range/Performance. The automatic transmission parallels the engine optimum power and torque features to the driver's coveted rate of acceleration and speed by auto-selecting various gear ratios or 'speeds' to power the wheels. The engine control module (PCM) sets in the error code P0701 when the transmission control module (TCM) fails to engage and select the accurate gear.

The error code P0701 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that precisely refers to all 1996-newer vehicles (Ford, Honda, Mazda, Mercedes, VW, etc.). Though generic in nature, certain repair measures may differ depending on make/model. If your vehicle instrument panel displays an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) alongside a stored code P0701, it plainly denotes that an error has been detected by the powertrain control module (PCM) in the transmission control system. It should be noted that this code focuses and is valid exclusively to vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. While primarily transmission controllers (for OBD-II equipped vehicles) are unified into the PCM, there are still a number of manufacturers that opt to use a stand-alone transmission control module (TCM). These transmission related codes are stored as P-codes regardless of whichever type of system that specific vehicle is equipped (there are no T-codes). If the P0701 code is sets in, there is a high probability of other transmission control codes stored too.

What causes this problem with the Transmission Control System Range/Performance?

• A falling or low transmission fluid level
• Inferior transmission fluid
• A possible failure of the transmission sensor
• Transmission control system having open or shorted circuits.
• Mechanical (internal) transmission malfunctioning
• A distorted torque converter
• A damaged transmission controller or a PCM programming error

1. Powertrain control module - Having problems with the powertrain control module? Don’t you worry, Parts Avatar has it all. A damaged or an unsound powertrain control module could end up being the root cause behind the Error code P0701.
2. Transmission sensor - A distorted transmission sensor can end up being the chief host inviting the Error Code P0701. So, replacing one can be one of the wisest decisions to avoid a problematic system.
3. Transmission connectors - Weary and defective connectors can often be problematic. So to add some spark to your ride you definitely need the perfect quality connectors offered at Parts Avatar. Isn’t that just the perfect deal?
4. Transmission control solenoid - A bad solenoid can lead to a lot of issues. Get your Error code fixed instantly by repairing or replacing your solenoid. So, what are you thinking? Tune into Parts Avatar now.

Curious to know the symptoms associated with the OBD code P0701? If yes, this is just the right stop for you. We at Parts Avatar have listed out few common symptoms associated with Transmission Control System Range/Performance.

Common Symptoms

• Irregular transmission shift patterns observed
• A Failure of the transmission to shift
• Deteriorating fuel efficiency
• A Transmission slide
• A delay in transmission engagement
• Various other codes related to transmission

Have a look at some ways with which you can correct the P0701 code:

• The transmission fluid if bad or flowing should be replaced
• Replace the transmission sensor
• All the open or shorted circuits in the transmission control system should change or repaired
• A malfunctioning mechanical transmission should be repaired or replaced
• The defective torque converter should be replaced
• If a PCM programming error is detected it should be replaced or repaired
• The damaged transmission controller should be mended or changed

To do all this, you will need few high-quality auto parts such as turbocharger, exhaust pressure sensor, exhaust pressure control valve, EGR pressure sensor, turbo, twin turbo kits, oil pressure sensor, turbo kits, oil pressure switches, electric turbo, turbo diesel and so on. From where will you get them? From your local store? Well, why go there when you can order quality parts with us while sitting in the comfort of your home. So, just browse through our website and order your needed parts today.

To diagnose a P0701 trouble code, the technician should refer to a manufacturer's wiring schematic for the vehicle they are diagnosing, a digital volt/ohmmeter, and an advanced scanner or OBD-II code reader. The following steps should be performed:

• First and foremost, even before attempting to diagnose and repair a P0701 trouble code, the technician should check on any other stored transmission related codes.
• Then a visual inspection should be done of the PCM wiring and connectors utilizing the manufacturer's wiring schematic.
• The system should be retested by linking the code scanner to the diagnostic connector if the code sets back or all of the wiring and connectors appear in order. When connected, download any of stored codes and freeze frame data.
• Also, the technician should fill the transmission fluid to a level to allow for noting any of the leaks.
• Lastly, investigate thoroughly all the solenoids, sensors or switches as a malfunctioning one can cause the PCM to store a P0701 trouble code.
• Then, all the codes should be cleared and the vehicle should be taken for a test drive to see if any of the code returns.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0701 Code

Fearing a misdiagnose? Well, nothing to worry about. We have listed here a few common mistakes that should be avoided while diagnosing and solving the error code P0701:

A generic mistake that most of the technicians make while diagnosing and repairing a P0701 trouble code is to completely restoring the transmission when a lesser expensive part replacement would have cured the problem. As part of the replacement procedure, many technicians also change the torque converter making the repair even costlier.