P2703 OBD-II Trouble Code: Transmission Friction Element D Apply Time Range/Performance

P2703 code definition

A P2703 trouble code means that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a malfunction in the transmission friction element D application. In addition to the storage of a trouble code and the illumination of the Check Engine light, some vehicles enter Limp-in mode when trouble code P2703 comes up.

A P2703 code is also related to trouble codes P2700, P2701, P2702, P2704, and P2705.

What the P2703 code means

A P2703 trouble code indicates that the output RPM signal is not within manufacturer specifications in comparison to the input RPM signal. In this instance, the PCM recognizes it as a transmission friction element application malfunction. In addition, this type of condition is similar to a transmission component slippage condition. With a transmission slippage code oftentimes accompanying a P2703 trouble code.

What causes the P2703 code?

Common causes of a P2703 trouble code include:

• A faulty or slipping transmission caused by low transmission fluid levels
• A transmission fluid leak
• A faulty transmission pump
• An overheating engine
• Defective output or input speed sensors
• A faulty PCM
• Faulty system wiring, connectors, or other electrical components

What are the symptoms of the P2703 code?

Some of the symptoms common of a P2703 trouble code include:

• Transmission slippage
• Lack of transmission engagement
• Harsh shifting (caused by the transmission entering Limp-in mode.)

How does a mechanic diagnose the P2703 code?

Some items a mechanic needs to successfully diagnose a P2703 trouble code include an advanced scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter, and a manufacturer's wiring schematic for the vehicle in question. To properly diagnose a P2703 trouble code, the mechanic needs to perform the following:

• Visually inspect the system wiring, connectors, and components for damage or fault.

• Check the engine and transmission area for oil or transmission fluid leaks.

• Clear the P2703 trouble code and test drive the vehicle to see if the code returns.

• If the code returns immediately, check for reference voltage and grounding at the input/output speed sensors using the digital volt/ohmmeter.

• If the reference voltage or ground circuits test as opened, check for resistance using the digital volt/ohmmeter on both circuits. Make sure to disconnect any related components from the circuit as controller damage may occur.

• Retest the system after clearing the code to see if it returns.

• If the trouble code returns, connect the oscilloscope and observe the input/output data while the engine is running, looking for glitches or soft spots in the waveform patterns.

• If everything seems to be in working order, disconnect and check the PCM using the digital volt/ohmmeter to determine if the fault lies there.

• Upon completing all of the repairs, clear the P2703 trouble code, and retest the system to see if the code returns.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P2703 code

A common mistake often made when diagnosing a P2703 code is to incorrectly assume that the problem is caused by a leaking transmission. As is often the case, the low fluid condition has allowed other parts within the transmission to become damaged. The mechanic should also keep in mind that an overheated transmission does not necessarily indicate the transmission needs rebuilding.

How serious is the P2703 code?

If not dealt with promptly, conditions associated with a P2703 trouble code can lead to transmission slippage and eventual failure, especially if a low fluid condition is the cause. If the engine enters limp mode, the engine will only run at very low RPMs and barely move. This is to protect the engine from damage at extremely high temperatures.

What repairs can fix the P2703 code?

Repairing and clearing a P2703 code requires the mechanic to:

• Repair any transmission fluid leaks
• Replace any faulty or damaged wiring, connectors, or components
• Replace the input/output speed sensors if necessary
• Replace or rebuild the transmission depending on condition and mileage
• Replace and reprogram the PCM if it is faulty

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0100 code

Sometimes an intermittent condition can occur with a P2703 trouble code. In this case, the mechanic should download any trouble codes or freeze frame data on the PCM to help with the diagnosis of such a condition. The vehicle owner might have to let the condition worsen before an intermittent P2703 trouble code can be successfully diagnosed by a mechanic.

Need help with a P2703 code?

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