Quick Answer
B071A means: B071A indicates a fault in the transmission fluid temperature sensor circuit.
Can I drive with B071A? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent transmission damage.
Common Questions
What does B071A mean and how does it affect my car?
The B071A code indicates a problem with the transmission fluid temperature sensor circuit. This can cause issues like erratic shifting and decreased fuel efficiency. If left unresolved, it may lead to serious transmission damage.
What are the most common causes of B071A and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include a faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, damaged wiring, or low transmission fluid levels. Repair costs can range from $150 to $300 depending on the required service.
Can I drive my car with B071A or should I stop immediately?
It is advisable to avoid driving the vehicle if the B071A code is present, as it may lead to further transmission damage. Immediate inspection is recommended.
How can I diagnose B071A myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, you can scan for codes, view live data from the transmission fluid temperature sensor, and check freeze frame data to understand the conditions under which the code was triggered.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by B071A?
The B071A code is often seen in vehicles like the 2015-2018 Ford F-150 and 2013-2017 Honda Accord. It's important to check for any manufacturer recalls related to transmission issues.
How can I prevent B071A from happening again?
Regular maintenance, including checking transmission fluid levels and quality, can help prevent B071A. Additionally, ensure that wiring and connectors are inspected during routine vehicle checks.
What is B071A?
The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) B071A indicates a problem with the transmission fluid temperature sensor circuit. This code is particularly relevant for various makes and models, including the 2015-2018 Ford F-150 and the 2013-2017 Honda Accord. The transmission fluid temperature sensor plays a crucial role in ensuring the transmission operates efficiently by monitoring the fluid temperature. When the sensor detects that the fluid temperature is outside the expected range or if the circuit has a performance issue, it triggers the B071A code. This can lead to significant problems, including erratic shifting, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to the transmission. If left unaddressed, the overheating of transmission fluid can cause severe wear and tear on the transmission components, leading to costly repairs. Therefore, it's essential for vehicle owners to understand this code, its implications, and the necessary steps for diagnosis and repair.
System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when B071A is present:
- The check engine light illuminates consistently, indicating a persistent issue with the transmission.
- Drivers may experience rough or erratic shifting during acceleration, making the vehicle feel unstable.
- Fuel economy may drop significantly, with reports of decreased efficiency by 10-15%, as the transmission struggles to operate effectively.
- Transmission overheating warnings may appear on the dashboard, suggesting critical issues with fluid temperature management.
- In some cases, the vehicle may go into 'limp' mode, restricting engine power to protect the transmission.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of B071A (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of B071A is a faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, which occurs in about 60% of cases. This can be due to wear or internal failure.
- Another prevalent cause is damaged wiring or poor connections in the sensor circuit, which may result from corrosion or physical damage, accounting for around 25% of cases.
- A third cause could be low transmission fluid levels, which can lead to overheating and erratic sensor readings. Regular fluid checks can help prevent this issue.
- Less common, but serious, is a malfunctioning Transmission Control Module (TCM), which can misinterpret sensor readings and lead to severe transmission problems.
- Rarely, software glitches in the vehicle's ECU may cause incorrect readings from the temperature sensor circuit.
B071A Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty temperature sensor with an OEM part to ensure accuracy and reliability.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 85%
Wiring Repair or Replacement
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit.
- Total: $100 - $250
- Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for B071A
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional B071A Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B071A. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the transmission fluid temperature sensor and wiring for visible damage or disconnections (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the transmission fluid temperature sensor and wiring for visible damage or disconnections (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: Use an OBD2 scanner, such as the GeekOBD APP, to read all stored codes and obtain freeze frame data, which helps contextualize the fault (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: Use an OBD2 scanner, such as the GeekOBD APP, to read all stored codes and obtain freeze frame data, which helps contextualize the fault (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Test the transmission fluid temperature sensor with a multimeter to check for proper voltage and resistance according to manufacturer specifications (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Test the transmission fluid temperature sensor with a multimeter to check for proper voltage and resistance according to manufacturer specifications (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: After performing repairs, conduct a system function test to ensure the transmission operates correctly and clear any stored codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: After performing repairs, conduct a system function test to ensure the transmission operates correctly and clear any stored codes (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Finally, take the vehicle for a road test under various conditions to confirm that the issue has been resolved (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Finally, take the vehicle for a road test under various conditions to confirm that the issue has been resolved (15-20 minutes).
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Transmission Sensor Replacement on 2017 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2017 Ford F-150, 45,000 miles
Problem: The owner reported rough shifting and a persistent check engine light.
Diagnosis: After scanning with the GeekOBD APP, the B071A code was identified. A visual inspection revealed a faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor.
Solution: The sensor was replaced with an OEM part, and the fluid was checked for contamination.
Cost: $220 (sensor $150, labor $70)
Result: Post-repair, the vehicle shifted smoothly, and the check engine light was cleared.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2014 Honda Accord
Vehicle: 2014 Honda Accord, 60,000 miles
Problem: The vehicle exhibited erratic shifting and a warning light.
Diagnosis: Using the GeekOBD APP, the B071A code was confirmed. Wiring inspection found significant corrosion.
Solution: Damaged wiring was replaced, and connections were cleaned and secured.
Cost: $180 (wiring $100, labor $80)
Result: After repairs, the transmission operated normally with no further codes logged.