P0705: Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction (PRNDL Input)
Updated November 12, 2026
The transmission range sensor tells the computer which gear the shifter is in: park, reverse, neutral, drive and so on. P0705 means the signal is missing, unclear or showing two positions at once.
COMPZA may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. How we make money.
🔧 Want to check this yourself? An OBD2 scanner reads the code; models with live data also show the sensor readings used in the checks below. See code readers and scanners from $24.99 ↓ · Which scanner do I need?
Common causes
- A faulty or misadjusted transmission range sensor
- Damaged wiring or a corroded connector
- A worn shift linkage or cable
- Fluid leaking into the sensor connector on some designs
Code meanings can vary slightly by manufacturer. Use these as a starting point and confirm with your vehicle's service information or a mechanic before replacing parts.
Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Engine won't start in park, or starts in other gears
- Reverse lights not working
- Harsh or incorrect shifting
Is it safe to drive?
Get it checked soon. A range sensor fault can let the engine start in gear or stop the car from starting at all.
How to check it with a scanner
- Plug an OBD2 scanner into the port under the dashboard and read all stored codes and the freeze-frame data (the conditions when the code set).
- Watch the gear position in live data as you move the shifter (engine off, parking brake on, foot on the brake).
- Inspect the sensor connector for fluid or corrosion.
- Check the shift cable or linkage adjustment.
- After a repair, clear the code and drive normally for a few days to confirm it doesn't come back.
A basic code reader shows the code; scanners with live data let you watch sensor readings, which is what you need for most of the checks above. See OBD2 scanners under $100.
Code readers and scanners in stock
From partner stores' live product feeds. Check that the tool covers your vehicle's make, model and year on the retailer's page before you buy.
LAUNCH CR319 OBD2 Code Reader & Emissions Readiness Tester$24.99at LAUNCH X431 Online 
LAUNCH CR529 OBD2 Code Reader with Live Data Stream$45at LAUNCH X431 Online 
Autel MaxiLink ML529$52at AUTELOnline 
AutoLink AL319$59at AUTELOnline 
MaxiAP AP2500E$60at AUTELOnline 
LAUNCH Creader VII+ Code Reader for Engine, ABS, SRS & Transmission$119at LAUNCH X431 Online Affiliate links. AUTELOnline prices updated Nov 14, 8:02 PM EST · LAUNCH X431 Online prices updated Nov 15, 12:27 AM EST.
Search eBay for your vehicle
Affiliate links: COMPZA may earn a commission from qualifying eBay purchases at no extra cost to you. Add your vehicle in eBay's parts finder to see parts that fit.
Questions
What does P0705 mean?
P0705 is the generic OBD2 code for "Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction (PRNDL Input)." The transmission range sensor tells the computer which gear the shifter is in: park, reverse, neutral, drive and so on. P0705 means the signal is missing, unclear or showing two positions at once.
Is it safe to drive with P0705?
Get it checked soon. A range sensor fault can let the engine start in gear or stop the car from starting at all.
How do I check P0705 myself?
Read the code and freeze-frame data with an OBD2 scanner, then: Watch the gear position in live data as you move the shifter (engine off, parking brake on, foot on the brake). Inspect the sensor connector for fluid or corrosion. Check the shift cable or linkage adjustment.
Related codes
📬 Get the weekly deals email
One email a week with the best current deals from our partner stores: home, kitchen, tech, car and gifts. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Emails include affiliate links; COMPZA may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our privacy policy.