Q: Transmission range sensor bad

asked by on February 13, 2016

I was told that the transmission range sensor is bad and needs to be replaced.

Check Engine Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi. The transmission range sensor (TR) receives a reference voltage from the transmission control module (TCM). The sensor then varies that voltage according to the position the gear selector (P, R, N, D, 2, 1). In this way, the sensor is used to determine the desired gear and control transmission hydraulic pressure. A TR sensor that is not operating properly will illuminate the Check Engine Light. I may also cause harsh shift engagement, harsh shift feel and a no-start condition. The sensor can be tested using the proper equipment. I suggest you have a trained professional, such as one form YourMechanic, do this for you.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Coolant leaking, engine might be messed up now
You are correct in not wanting to start the car to avoid any further damage. It sounds like you might have coolant leaking into one of the cylinders due to an engine block failure, resulting in a misfire. What needs...
Power steering leak.
It is highly likely that your power steering hoses are leaking which has caused a low fluid condition. Low fluid in the power steering system will cause loss of power steering. It can also damage the power steering pump. I...
Key won't unlock car anymore
The latch inside the door is locked and unlocked by a lock actuator. The latch or lock actuator has likely bound up, and will need to be accessed get the door open. If this is the case, the inside door...
How can I reset the computer
Unhooking the battery and jumping the positive and negative terminals should clear any trouble codes. Be sure to unhook both as this can be very dangerous if not done properly. If not experienced in doing this, I would recommend having...
Clicking noise in back of pick up only forward not backwards??
Hello. I would need to listen to the noise to see if the problem is in the brakes. If the rotor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-rotor-disc-replacement) or drum (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-drum-replacement) is warped, then the pads or shoes may make a click sound every time the...
Just changed oil,how do you make change oil light go away?
To reset the oil change reminder light on your vehicle: Turn the ignition key to the run position, do not start the vehicle. Press the gas pedal fully 3 times within 10 seconds. Turn the ignition to the off position....
Changed my brake pads, now there is a grinding noise and the brake is spongy
The grinding noise you may be hearing may be a sign of worn out brake pads (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-pads-replacement) grinding on the brake rotors. When the brake pads wear down beyond a specific measurement, this kind of sound is common and may...
Soft clutch, topped off clutch fluid reservoir and clutch pedal became firm/springing back on its own.
It is most common for the clutch hydraulic leak to be from a leaking clutch slave cylinder. You should have the clutch hydraulic system inspected by YourMechanic to see why the fluid is getting low. The fluid gets low anytime...
Car vibration
Your car has some of the most sophisticated Motor Mounts in the business. It may even have a variable motor mount that has a vacuum line going to it. When the car is idling, the engine vacuum opens a valve...

Related articles

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Support Bearing
Common signs include unusual noises and shuddering during acceleration.
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Universal Joint (U-Joint)
Common signs of a faulty u-joint include a squeaking noise, clunking sound when shifting, vibrations in the car, and transmission fluid leaking.
How Long Does a Throttle Body Last?
There There are so many components involved in a vehicle running properly, but some of the main ones are rather basic in their role. The throttle body is one of those parts. This component is part of the air intake...