P0708 – Transmission range (TR) sensor/switch -high input
| Code | Fault Location | Probable Cause |
|---|---|---|
| P0708 | Transmission range (TR) sensor/switch -high input (Buy Part On Amazon) | Wiring short to positive, TR sensor/switch, ECM/PCM!TCM |
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Table of Contents
- What Does Code P0708 Mean?
- Where is the P0708 sensor located?
- What are the common causes of code P0708 ?
- Get Help with P0708
What Does Code P0708 Mean?
OBD II fault code P0708 is a generic code that is defined as “Transmission range (TR) sensor/switch -high input’, and is set when the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) detects an input voltage from the transmission range sensor and/or its control/signal circuit(s) that exceeds a maximum allowable threshold or limit.
Also known as the “PRNDL input” and/or “neutral safety switch”, the purpose of the transmission range sensor is to provide input data to the TCM (Transmission Control Module) and the PCM about which gear is currently selected. If the transmission range sensor is fully functional, it also acts as a safety cut-out switch that allows the engine to be started only when “N” is selected.
In terms of its operating principles, the transmission range sensor is typically a rotary type switch similar to an ignition switch in which different circuits are completed depending on the position of the moving part(s) in the switch. In the case of most transmission range switches, the transmission selector shaft passes through the switch; thus, by moving the gear selector, the selector shaft rotates a moving part, which then completes a particular circuit- with the circuit depending on the position of the gear selector.
In practical terms, if the gear selector is moved into, say, the “D” position, the transmission range sensor will complete a particular circuit that alerts the PCM, TCM, and other control modules that “D” had been selected. Apart from illuminating or highlighting the appropriate indicator light on the dashboard, completing this circuit when “D” is associated with different modes like “Sport”, “Economy” or others, also allows both the PCM and TCM to switch to a programming mode that is appropriate for the particular mode that was selected.
From the above it should be obvious that the transmission range sensor/switch is a critical component and that if it fails or cannot communicate with the PCM/TCM effectively, these control modules cannot in their turn, manage the engine and transmission effectively. For this reason, when the PCM/TCM detect abnormal voltages in either the transmission range sensor or its control/signal circuits, the PCM will initiate a failsafe or limp mode both as a safety precaution, and to prevent damage to the transmission.
NOTE: Note that some types of failures will not necessarily cause a failsafe or limp mode: for example, if circuit that indicates “N” fails the engine may be started while any gear is selected. While this condition is clearly dangerous, it does not affect the operation of either the engine or transmission directly, and a failsafe or limp mode will therefore not be initiated.
Be aware that on most applications, the presence of only code P0708 will generally not cause the CHECK ENGINE warning light to be illuminated. However, what might happen is that the “OD” (Over drive) or other transmission related indicator light may start to blink or flash.
Where is the P0708 sensor located?
The image above shows a typical transmission range sensor (indicated by the white arrow), where it is attached directly to the transmission casing. While his arrangement is typical, there are nevertheless applications on which the transmission range sensor is attached to the gear selector lever. On these applications, the transmission range sensor is typically located inside the center console where the gear selector lever acts upon it directly, instead of through a control cable as shown here.
What are the common causes of code P0708 ?
Some common causes of code P0708 could include the following-
- Damaged, burnt, shorted, disconnected, or corroded wiring and/or connectors
- Damaged, worn, or defective transmission range sensor/switch
- Incorrect adjustment of the transmission range sensor/switch
- Incorrect adjustment, or, excessive mechanical wear of control linkages/cables
- Failed or failing PCM/TCM. Note that these are rare events, and the fault must therefore be sought elsewhere before any control module is replaced
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I got $0708 and $0709 , check engine light on . Please let me know what does mean ? and how I can fix it ? cost to repair ? Thank you
Hi,
My Toyota also have the P0708 code after checking with my ODB tool and I could not start my car. However, when I change gears, the dash and gear LED indicator on the gear selector also shows corresponding PRND gear. If I would guess, it would be a short or high voltage input to the wiring. Should I replace the sensor? Thanks
I’m guessing you have an automatic transmission? In that case, this wiring diagram might help. The TR switch gets its power from the backup-fuse and doesn’t appear to have any other feeds. Can you reproduce the problem in certain gear positions? For example, does it only throw the code when it’s in Park or another gear? Possibly, if the TR switch isn’t aligned, it might contact two gear positions at once, sending voltage to two circuits. Adjusting the TR switch position might fix it in that case, if not replacement.
Otherwise, you might need to trace the circuit and see if it’s getting power from somewhere it shouldn’t, perhaps from rubbing through another wire, some aftermarket installation, or impact or rodent damage.
Hello,
Just threw the P0708 code for a short circuit.
Been a good vehicle for the wife.
Is it time to start shopping for another, or will it be worth the cost to repair?
Thanks
Don’t throw away your car just yet. The transmission range sensor is located on the transmission just under the shift arm. When you move the shift lever, the cable moves the transmission into whatever mode you select. Just under the lever is the transmission range (TR) sensor, TR Sensor Location, which reports to the ECM what gear you’ve selected. I’m not sure about how common the issue is for Hyundai, but was common on Toyota/Lexus, which have a similar setup. As long as the transmission was shifting fine before this problem occurred, I think investing a little in a sensor would be worth it.
I never had any issues with shifting on it, and even though it has high mileage, it has been reliable and she`s very comfortable with the car. With the information you have given me, I see no reason we cannot get a few more miles out of it without breaking the bank.. Thanks for your help.
Sometimes it’s just little fixes that can go a long way. If you can get the TR signal back, you’ll be good until the rest of the car rusts away from around it! Keep us posted with your progress.
I have now run another scan, turned off the engine light display…then no more issues were found. If it returns, and I expect it will, I will be prepared and know how to proceed.
Many thanks.
Hi thanks first
I have code p0700 & p 0 708
Hyondi santafe 2007
Get R&N together on screen