Quick Answer
P0704 means: The P0704 code indicates an issue with the transmission range sensor circuit, affecting gear shifting.
Can I drive with P0704? Immediate attention is recommended to avoid further transmission damage.
Common Questions
What does P0704 mean and how does it affect my car?
The P0704 code signifies a problem with the transmission range sensor circuit. This can lead to issues like difficulty shifting gears, poor acceleration, and even starting problems. It's essential to address this code promptly to avoid further damage to your transmission.
What are the most common causes of P0704 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include a faulty transmission range sensor, damaged wiring, or a malfunctioning transmission control module. Repair costs can range from $150 for sensor replacement to $200 for wiring repairs, depending on the issue.
Can I drive my car with P0704 or should I stop immediately?
It's advised to stop driving if you see the P0704 code, as it can lead to severe transmission issues. Continuing to drive may cause further damage and increase repair costs.
How can I diagnose P0704 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, you can scan your vehicle for DTC codes, review freeze frame data to understand when the code occurred, and monitor the transmission range sensor's performance to identify issues more accurately.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0704?
The P0704 code is commonly found in vehicles such as the 2016 Honda Accord, 2017 Toyota Camry, and other models from the 2015-2018 range. Check for any vehicle-specific recalls or technical service bulletins related to this code.
How can I prevent P0704 from happening again?
Regular maintenance, including transmission fluid changes and inspections of electrical connections, can help prevent the P0704 code from recurring. Keeping your vehicle's software updated is also crucial.
What is P0704?
The P0704 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates an issue with the Transmission Range Sensor Circuit, which monitors the position of the transmission gear. This sensor is crucial for informing the engine control module (ECM) about which gear the transmission is in. When the sensor reports a discrepancy or malfunction, it can adversely affect vehicle performance, leading to shifting issues or even making the car undriveable in some cases. Drivers may experience problems like the inability to shift gears smoothly, issues with starting the vehicle, or the check engine light illuminating. Commonly found in vehicles like the 2016 Honda Accord and 2017 Toyota Camry, this code may also appear in other makes and models. Ignoring the P0704 code can lead to more severe transmission problems down the line, which can be costly to repair. Therefore, understanding this code and addressing it promptly is essential for maintaining your vehicle's health and ensuring safe driving conditions.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P0704 is present:
- Check engine light stays on constantly, indicating a persistent issue with the transmission range sensor.
- Engine hesitates during acceleration, causing a noticeable delay and an unpleasant driving experience.
- Fuel economy decreased by 10-15%, indicating potential inefficiencies in gear shifting or engine performance.
- Difficulty shifting gears, where the vehicle may become stuck in a specific gear or fail to shift properly.
- Inability to start the vehicle in certain gear positions, particularly if the sensor is malfunctioning.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P0704 (ordered by frequency):
- Faulty transmission range sensor (approximately 60% likelihood) - The most common reason for the P0704 code is a sensor that has failed or become misaligned, causing incorrect signals to be sent to the ECM.
- Damaged wiring or connectors (about 25% likelihood) - Wiring issues such as frayed wires or poor connections can lead to erratic sensor readings.
- Faulty transmission control module (15% likelihood) - Although less common, a malfunctioning module can misinterpret the signals from the transmission range sensor.
- Software issues in the vehicle's ECU - Rare but can occur, sometimes requiring a software update to resolve communication errors.
- Contaminated transmission fluid - Dirty or low transmission fluid can affect performance and cause sensor inaccuracies.
P0704 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Transmission Range Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty transmission range sensor to restore proper communication with the ECM.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair
Repairing any damaged wiring or connectors related to the transmission range sensor.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 80%
Money-Saving Tips for P0704
- 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 P0704 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0704. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the transmission range sensor (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the transmission range sensor (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (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 Range Sensor Replacement on a 2016 Honda Accord
Vehicle: 2016 Honda Accord, 65,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported check engine light and difficulty shifting gears.
Diagnosis: Initial scan revealed P0704. Visual inspection showed damaged wiring leading to the transmission range sensor.
Solution: Replaced the transmission range sensor and repaired the wiring.
Cost: $250 (sensor $150, wiring repair $100)
Result: Post-repair, the check engine light was cleared and shifting issues were resolved.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on a 2017 Toyota Camry
Vehicle: 2017 Toyota Camry, 40,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced erratic shifting and check engine light.
Diagnosis: P0704 code confirmed after scanning. Wiring damage was found during inspection.
Solution: Repaired damaged wiring and connectors, ensuring a proper connection to the range sensor.
Cost: $180 (wiring repair)
Result: Vehicle shifted smoothly post-repair, and the check engine light remained off.