P0701 OBD-II Trouble Code: Transmission Control System Range/Performance

Our certified mechanics come to you · Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront

EXCELLENT RATING ON

Cost of diagnosing the P0701 code

P0701 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Transmission Control System Range/Performance". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.

Cars Estimate* Credit towards follow-up repair Earliest Availability
Ford $154.99 $50.0
Toyota $154.99 $50.0
BMW $164.99 $50.0

*Estimates may vary by market

SCHEDULE P0701 DIAGNOSTIC Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront

P0701 code definition

A P0701 trouble code indicates that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a malfunction in the automatic control system. In addition to some models of vehicles placing the transmission into Limp-in mode, this code can be triggered by a selection of different transmission failure codes, including P0700, P0702, and other related trouble codes.

What the P0701 code means

When a P0701 trouble code is stored, the transmission control system has detected an abnormality in the readings from one or more sensors. This code can also derive from a malfunction with a solenoid or switch, or any malfunction with a specific transmission component or the transmission system itself.

What causes the P0701 code?

Some of the more common causes of a stored P0701 trouble code include failure of the torque converter clutch, shift solenoid, or other transmission component. A low fluid condition is another cause of this type of code, most likely the result of a transmission leak. Faulty sensors, switches, and defective wiring and connectors are some other likely causes.

What are the symptoms of the P0701 code?

The symptoms of a P0701 trouble code include total transmission failure in a worst-case scenario, or, in some cases, there are no symptoms at all. Some common symptoms include the check engine light illuminating and shifting, slipping, and overheating of the transmission. Engine stalling and difficulty shifting are some other common issues arising when a P0701 trouble code is stored.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0701 code?

To diagnose a P0701 trouble code, a mechanic needs access 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. To diagnose a P0701 trouble code, a mechanic needs to:

  • Before attempting to diagnose and repair a P0701 trouble code, the mechanic needs to diagnose any other stored transmission related codes first.
  • Then, they should visually inspect the PCM wiring and connectors using the manufacturer's wiring schematic.
  • Next, retest the system, attaching the code scanner to the diagnostic connector if the code returns or all of the wiring and connectors look good. While connected, download any stored codes and freeze frame data.
  • The mechanic should also fill the transmission fluid to a level to allow for the checking of leaks.
  • Inspect the solenoids, sensors, or switches, as a fault with one of them can cause the PCM to store a P0701 trouble code.
  • Clear the code and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0701 code

A common mistake that many mechanics make when diagnosing and repairing a P0701 trouble code is to completely rebuild the transmission when a less expensive part replacement would have fixed the problem. As part of the rebuild process, many mechanics also replace the torque converter, making the repair even more expensive.

How serious is the P0701 code?

The seriousness of a P0701 trouble code depends on the cause of the problem. If the code is stored due to damage from a low fluid condition, a mechanic might have to rebuild the transmission if the damage is extensive enough. A faulty sensor, switch, or solenoid can trigger the storage of a P0701 trouble code, and the driver can continue to drive the vehicle without fear of any major damage, though failed sensors, switches, and solenoids can cause a slippage, rough shifting, or other problems in a vehicle transmission.

What repairs can fix the P0701 code?

To repair and clear a P0701 trouble code, a mechanic should perform the following steps:

  • Repair or replace any faulty wiring, connectors, or components.
  • In a manual transmission vehicle, replace the PCM if faulty.
  • Repair any fluid leaks if detected.
  • Fill the transmission to an appropriate level before test driving the vehicle.
  • Replace any faulty solenoids, sensors, or switches.

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0701 code

This type of code only applies to vehicles with automatic transmissions. If a P0701 trouble code is stored on the PCM of a vehicle with a manual transmission, the mechanic should suspect a faulty PCM.

Need help with a P0701 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.

Check Engine Light
P0701
trouble codes

No more waiting rooms! Our mechanics will come to you to diagnose and fix the P0701 code.

SCHEDULE P0701 DIAGNOSTIC
Get a $50 credit for the follow-up repair

Recent Check Engine Light is on Inspection reviews

Excellent Rating

(8600)

Rating Summary
8017
273
65
46
199
8017
273
65
46
199
 at YourMechanic

Brandon

9 years of experience
133 reviews
Brandon
9 years of experience
Ford Escort L4-2.0L - Check Engine Light is on - Nashville, Tennessee
Brandon showed up ahead of schedule, was very personable and diagnosed my problems. He also scheduled my next appointments which will be with him.
 at YourMechanic

William

23 years of experience
33 reviews
William
23 years of experience
Lexus IS250 V6-2.5L - Check Engine Light is on - Mableton, Georgia
Arrived early which was great. William was courteous, and attentive to the issue. Even though it took several attempts I'm so happy he was determined to fix it and he did!
 at YourMechanic

Dan

40 years of experience
1080 reviews
Dan
40 years of experience
Plymouth Grand Voyager - Check Engine Light is on - Lawrenceville, Georgia
Mr. Dan Barber was quite patient, courteous and quite knowledgeable. From my observation, Mr. Barber appears to be quite professional.
 at YourMechanic

Christopher

9 years of experience
120 reviews
Christopher
9 years of experience
Ford Fiesta L4-1.6L - Check Engine Light is on - Smyrna, Georgia
Chris communicated with us each step of the way up until his arrival. He listened well, was knowledgeable, and was prepared. He took the time to diagnose the problem, explained the what, why and how and provided a solution. I would definitely recommend him and will use him again.


Related questions

Car misfiring and is barely driving.
The modifications you have done are hard to say if they are causing the problem or not, since they are different than the original equipment specifications. The problem sounds like you are running out of fuel or you do not...
P0701 and limp mode - 2006 Ford Freestyle
Hello - the P0701 (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0701-obd-ii-trouble-code-transmission-control-system-range-performance-by-cheryl-knight) is a generic problem code which is set by the transmission, but there should be other codes, because there are other possibilities that will trigger this code. A throttle position sensor, whether dirty or malfunctioning,...

More related articles

P2110 OBD-II Trouble Code: Throttle Actuator Control System Forced Limited RPM
P2110 P2110 trouble code definition Throttle Actuator Control System Forced Limited RPM What the P2110 code means P2110 is an OBD-II generic code for the engine control module (ECM) detecting a major failure in the throttle actuator control (TAC) system...
P0251 OBD-II Trouble Code: Injection Pump Fuel Metering Control "A" Malfunction (Cam/Rotor/Injector)
P0251 code definition Injection Pump Fuel Metering Control "A" Malfunction (Cam/Rotor/Injector) What the P0251 code means P0251 is a generic fault code...
P2431 OBD-II Trouble Code: Secondary Air Injection System Air Flow / Pressure Sensor Circuit Range / Performance Bank 1
P2431 P2431 code definition Secondary Air Injection System Air Flow / Pressure Sensor Circuit Range / Performance Bank 1 What the P2431 code means The secondary air injection system is used to add air into the exhaust to reduce vehicle...

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (855) 347-2779 · hi@yourmechanic.com