Transmission

P0714 — Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent

Severity: medium Drive with care, to a shop

What P0714 means

The transmission fluid temperature sensor is a thermistor. The control module uses it to adjust line pressure, shift timing and torque converter lockup. P0714 sets when the signal drops out, jumps or goes out of range and then returns to normal. This usually points to a poor connection rather than a constant failure.

Symptoms

  • Transmission warning or check engine light that comes and goes
  • Harsh or jerky shifts when the transmission is hot
  • Shift quality that changes without a clear reason
  • Late or missing torque converter lockup
  • Code clears itself and returns after a few drives

Possible causes

  1. Loose, dirty or corroded connector at the transmission
  2. Failing transmission fluid temperature sensor
  3. Chafed or broken wires in the internal transmission harness
  4. Damaged wiring between the transmission and the control module
  5. Poor terminal contact at the control module connector
  6. Rarely, a faulty PCM or TCM

How to diagnose

  1. Read freeze frame data and other transmission codes to see when the fault occurs
  2. Check fluid level and condition: color, smell and debris
  3. Inspect the transmission connector for dirt, moisture, corrosion and a secure lock
  4. Wiggle the harness with the engine running while watching fluid temperature on a scan tool
  5. Compare the sensor reading with real pan temperature from an infrared thermometer, cold and hot
  6. Test the signal and ground wires for opens, shorts and resistance
  7. Measure the sensor resistance and compare it to the manufacturer's spec
  8. Check the control module connector and reference voltage if wiring and sensor are good

Common fixes

  • Clean the connector terminals and repair or replace a damaged connector body
  • Repair or replace damaged wiring
  • Replace the fluid temperature sensor or internal wiring harness
  • Change the fluid and filter if it is dirty or overheated
  • Repair or replace the control module only after ruling out everything else

Questions and answers

What does P0714 mean?

The transmission control module is getting an unstable signal from the fluid temperature sensor that drops out and returns. A bad connection in the connector or harness is the usual cause, less often the sensor itself.

Can I drive with P0714?

For a short time, if the transmission shifts normally. Without reliable temperature data it may run in a less than ideal mode, so don't put off the inspection.

Can I just clear the code?

Clearing it only hides the problem for a while. If a loose connector or damaged wire is the cause, the code will return and the fault may get worse.

This is general information about the code. The meaning can differ between makes and models: a scan tool and the repair manual for your car will show the exact cause.