P0712

DTC P0712

Circuit Description
The automatic transmission fluid temperature (TFT) sensor is a thermistor. The powertrain control module (PCM) supplies a 5 volt reference signal to the sensor. When the transmission fluid is cold, the sensor resistance is high and the PCM senses a high signal voltage. As the transmission fluid warms, the sensor resistance lowers and the PCM senses lower voltage. The PCM uses the TIFT reading in order to control the torque converter clutch (TCC), line pressure adjustments, and temperature compensated shifts. When the PCM detects a continuous short to ground in the TFT circuit or the TFT sensor, DTC P0712 sets. DTC P0712 is a type C DTC.

Conditions for Running the DTC
- No TFT DTC P0711.
- The system voltage is 11 volts or greater.

Conditions for Setting the DTC
The TFT sensor voltage is 0.16 V or less for at least 10 seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets
- The PCM does not illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL).
- The PCM illuminates the SVS Lamp.
- The PCM flashes the Coolant Temp indicator.
- The PCM ignores the input from TFT sensor and uses the default values.
- The PCM records the operating conditions when the Conditions for Setting the DTC are met. The PCM stores this information as Failure Records.
- The PCM stores DTC P0712 in PCM history.

Conditions for Clearing the SVS Lamp/DTC
- The PCM turns OFF the SVS lamp when the condition no longer exists.
- A scan tool can clear the SVS lamp/DTC.
- The PCM clears the DTC from PCM history if the vehicle completes 40 warm-up cycles without a non-emission related diagnostic fault occurring.

Diagnostic Aids
- Inspect the connectors at the PCM, the TFT sensor, and all other circuit connecting points for an intermittent condition.
- Inspect the circuit wiring for an intermittent condition.
- Inspect for a shorted TFT sensor wire.
- Inspect for a faulty TFT sensor.
- Inspect for an internal fault of the PCM.

Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
2. This step verifies DTC P0712, by indicating a short to ground. If the scan tool does not display a transmission fluid temperature equal to or greater than 159°C (318°F), then the DTC is intermittent.
3. This step isolates the PCM and the engine wiring harness. If the scan tool displays a transmission fluid temperature less than -29°C (-20°F), then the PCM and the engine wiring harness are not damaged.

Steps 1 - 8:

DTC P0712