Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
The P0706 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance. This is a serious severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Limited driving only
- DIY difficulty
- medium
- Estimated cost
- $30-$100 for range sensor; $80-$200 labor
Read and clear transmission codes. Many trans codes are caused by low or burnt fluid -- check level and color before assuming the worst.
Basic scanners only read engine codes. This reads transmission, ABS, and airbag too.
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Common Symptoms
- Vehicle starts in gear without pressing brake
- Reverse lights on in Drive
- Transmission shifts incorrectly or not at all
- Check Engine Light on
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Failed or misadjusted transmission range sensor (neutral safety switch) Very High
- Damaged wiring or connector at range sensor Moderate
- Sticking shift cable not moving the range sensor properly Moderate
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing P0706 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2003-2015 Nissan Altima/Maxima CVT Moderate DIY
The transmission range sensor (also called inhibitor switch) on Nissan CVTs develops internal contact wear causing intermittent incorrect range signals. Located on the outside of the transmission near the manual shift lever. Replace with OEM Nissan for reliable fitment. Confirm the exact part for your year and engine with a retailer's fitment lookup or your VIN before ordering - these applications split by engine and build date.
Labor: 1-2 hours2004-2014 Chevrolet Silverado 4L60E/6L80E Moderate DIY
The neutral safety switch (PRNDL sensor) on GM trucks with 4L60E or 6L80E transmissions fails from fluid contamination. The sensor is on the driver side of the transmission. Unplug and test each position with an ohmmeter. Replace with an OE-quality ACDelco unit if any position reads open circuit. Confirm the exact part for your year and engine with a retailer's fitment lookup or your VIN before ordering - these applications split by engine and build date.
Labor: 1-1.5 hours2005-2014 Ford F-150 4R75E Moderate DIY
The digital transmission range sensor on Ford transmissions reads erratically when the adjustment goes out of spec. Before replacing, loosen the sensor mounting bolts and re-align using the alignment tool (Rotunda T97L-70010-A). If adjustment does not fix it, replace the sensor. Located on the side of the transmission. Confirm the exact part for your year and engine with a retailer's fitment lookup or your VIN before ordering - these applications split by engine and build date.
Labor: 1-2 hoursFrequently Asked Questions
What is the transmission range sensor?
The transmission range sensor (also called the neutral safety switch or multi-function switch) tells the TCM and ECM which gear the driver has selected. It also controls the reverse lights and prevents the engine from starting in gear.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
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Move the shifter through all positions while monitoring range sensor position on a scan tool. Each position should show a unique signal.
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Inspect range sensor adjustment: most require alignment with the shift lever in Park.
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Test continuity of each circuit in the range sensor connector per the wiring diagram.
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Inspect the shift cable for binding or incorrect adjustment.
Sources 1
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines the generic OBD-II code ranges)
Commonly Affected Vehicles
- Chevrolet Silverado and Tahoe
- GMC Sierra and Yukon
- Dodge Ram and Caravan
- Ford F-150
Related Codes
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