P0706Generic code

P0706 Code: Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

The P0706 code means the transmission range sensor (PRNDL selector) gives a reading that is electrically valid but does not match what the computer expects. The main effect is that the engine will not start in park, or the wrong gear is selected.

Severity
High
Can I keep driving?
Yes, but with caution
Estimated cost
$40 to $400
Difficulty
Medium
System
Transmission
Applies to
All OBD2 vehicles

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

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What the P0706 code means

The range sensor reports the position of the lever (P, R, N, D and the manual gears). It allows starting only in P or N, turns on the reverse lights and tells the transmission computer which gears it may engage.

It is a switch: the computer sees a high or low voltage depending on its position. A range fault means the sensor is measuring, but wrongly, or that there is a real abnormal condition.

The P0706 code is set when the computer sees that fault in the circuit.

If the signal is not coherent, the transmission can go into the wrong gear or into limp mode, the engine may not start in park and the reverse lights may fail. A shift cable that is out of adjustment causes the same symptoms as a bad sensor. See the range sensor guide to learn how to test it.

This kind of fault does not usually get solved with a multimeter, because electrically everything looks right. You have to compare what the part says with reality: with a gauge, a thermometer, a tachometer, or by commanding the component with the scan tool and watching whether the physical result matches the command.

P0706 code symptoms

  • Check engine light on.
  • Cannot start in park, or the wrong gear engages.
  • The engine only starts in neutral.
  • The reverse light does not come on.
  • The gear indicator on the dash does not match the lever.

Likely causes of the P0706 code

  1. Degraded or miscalibrated sensor that gives believable but wrong readings.
  2. A real abnormal condition, where the system is actually working outside of normal.
  3. High resistance in the connector from corrosion, which shifts the reading.
  4. Damaged or blocked port, hose or tone wheel, depending on the sensor type.

How to diagnose the P0706 code step by step

  1. Read the sensor value on the scan tool and compare it with what is expected.
  2. Inspect the connector for corrosion, water and loose pins.
  3. Check power and ground with the key on: a correct reference and less than 0.1 volt drop on the ground.
  4. Measure the signal with the connector plugged in and see whether it changes with the condition.
  5. Do a wiggle test of the wiring with the scan tool in graph mode.
  6. Check the continuity of each wire back to the computer (under 1 ohm).
  7. Move the lever through every position and check on the scan tool that the computer sees the same one.
  8. Check the adjustment of the shift cable.

How to fix the P0706 code

  • Repair the connector or the wiring.
  • Replace the sensor if the tests confirm it is bad.
  • Correct the real condition if there is one.
  • Clear the P0706 code and verify with a road test.

Technical reference data

  • Multi position switch or Hall effect sensor with a digital output.
  • Reference values only: check the manufacturer data for your vehicle.

Brand-specific notes

The source notes the sensor location on several brands.

P0706 on Ford

On many Fords the sensor is on the outside of the transmission and is adjusted with a centering pin.

P0706 on Toyota

On many Toyotas the sensor is on the outside of the transmission and is adjusted with a centering pin.

P0706 on Nissan

On many Nissans the sensor is on the outside of the transmission and is adjusted with a centering pin.

Frequently asked questions about P0706

What does the P0706 code mean?
It means the range sensor gives a reading that is valid electrically but does not match what is expected, so the computer cannot trust the lever position.
Can I drive with a P0706 code?
With caution. Make sure the vehicle does not move in park and that it only starts in P or N.
Do I have to replace the sensor?
Only if the tests confirm it. The connector and the wiring fail just as often.
What does the transmission range sensor do?
It reports the position of the lever (P, R, N, D and the manual gears). It allows starting only in P or N, turns on the reverse lights and tells the transmission computer which gears it can engage.
How much does it cost to fix P0706?
As a rough guide, between $40 and $400, depending on whether it is a connector, wiring or a new sensor.

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