P0700 Code (Meaning, Causes, Symptoms & Fixes)

P0700 is an OBD-II generic code that indicates a fault in the transmission control system.

The vehicle’s internal computer uses warning errors to communicate with you about any internal problems. While some warning lights may be caused by a simple problem that can quickly be fixed, others could indicate severe damage to the engine or transmission.

The Transmission system is a critical component of your vehicle. It is vital that you, as a driver, maintain a flawless transmission. Understanding error codes is essential for understanding the transmission.

The P0700 code can be used to identify a general problem you might encounter when driving an automobile with an automatic transmission.

This article will provide all the information you need to know about the P0700 code. This article outlines the definition of the code, its symptoms, and expected repair options. It also gives an estimate of the repair cost.

What Is The P0700 Code?

The P0700 OBD-II scanner error code is a generic code applicable to all vehicles with OBD-II. It refers to the transmission control module (TCM) in an automatic transmission. The P0700 is an Informational code because it indicates a general fault and not a specific fault.

A scan tool that communicates to the TCM will help you identify the problem if you have a P0700 c0de. There is also The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), which illuminates if the code P0700 is present to inform you of the presence of the code.

If you have a P0700 code, there is a possibility that you are experiencing poor gas mileage or transmission shifting issues. It could also mean that your engine could stop working or cause problems. OBD-II scan tools may reveal other codes accompanied by the P0700.

Doing a proper diagnosis could help you determine the problem with your vehicle. The P0700 code is a generic OBD-II code that can be triggered by a number of different problems.

The most common cause of the P0700 is a problem with the TCM (Transmission Control Module). This could be due to a faulty wiring harness or loose connections, but it can also mean that you have an electrical short in your vehicle’s computer system.

The P0700 code could mean that your transmission is damaged or malfunctioning. If you do not get it fixed right away, it could cause further damage to other parts of your vehicle.

The P0700 code is an indication that the transmission control module (TCM) has detected a problem with the electrical signal from one of the sensors. There are many different sensors in your car’s transmission, each responsible for monitoring a specific function.

The TCM uses these sensors to monitor things like speed, throttle position and engine RPMs.

What Does the P0700 Code Mean for My Car?

It is possible to experience rough, erratic shifting and a drop in gas mileage if your vehicle TCM is not functioning as it should and you have a P0700 code. This is something to be worried about if you are a driver, as it will make driving your vehicle difficult.

Driving a car with the P0700 code comes with a number of risks, but the biggest risk it poses is not to your comfort but to your safety.

If your transmission control module malfunctions, it can prevent the car from shifting properly. If this happens on a highway, you could be in danger of crashing. That’s why it’s important to diagnose and repair your TCM as soon as possible.

What Causes Code P0700 ?

This P0700 code is commonly associated with transmission or shift solenoid problems. Most likely, the TCM detects an issue in the transmission, and then the code is displayed.

Here are some of the common causes of a P0700 code

1. Bad or Failing Transmission Control Module (TCM)
2. Shortages in the wiring
3. Transmission problems
4. Defective shift solenoids
5. Bad or failing engine coolant Sensor
6. Lower levels of transmission fluid, or dirty transmission fluid

Also Read: P0430 – Meaning, Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

What are the Various P0700 Code Symptoms?

These are the most common symptoms of P0700. These symptoms may vary depending vehicle which could possibly not show them all.

1. The check engine light is on
2. Reduced Transmission performance
3. Delayed response When changing gears
4. Abnormal Shifting
5. Limp Home Mode – limits the vehicle to one gear and limit the speed limit to get the car to a repair shop (limp home)
6. Fluid leak/burning smell from transmission area – usually red/brownish color/black
7. Harsh shifting

If you see any of these symptoms, it is important to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic immediately.

How To Diagnose The P0700 Code?

1. Start by attaching a scanner to your vehicle and verifying that all codes are present. If P0700 is found, it’s usually not the only code present.
2. check all freeze frame data, To see the circumstances in which the Check Engine Light was illuminated
3. Clear the code, then take your vehicle to a road test to see if the code reappears.
4. After this inspection is complete, inspect the transmission and all wiring connections.
5. Finally, use the scan tool to monitor the transmission information while driving, such as solenoid operation or condition of the transmission valve body.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing P0700

There are 2  common mistakes you might make when diagnosing the P0700 code they are:

1. Under Diagnose

Do not assume that your vehicle is repaired just because the code has been cleared. Small problems can quickly become big ones.

2. Over Diagnose

Not getting all the codes and data set causing the P0700 and recommending extensive repairs — when a wire replacement, TCM, or sensor repair would have solved it.

What Repairs Can Fix The P0700 Code?

1. Restoring the Transmission Valve Body
2. Replacing the Transmission Control Module (TCM)
3. Replacing a Malfunctioning or Broken Solenoid
4. Repairing any Faulty Wires

How To Fix The P0700 Code?

This section will provide you with a list of DIY steps that you could try to fix the P0700 code. This is done to reduce labor costs. If none of these DIYs work, take your vehicle to the nearest shop to have professional mechanics perform certain manufacturer tests to identify the issue.

Here’s a summary of all DIY steps you can try to fix a P0700 code:

1. Use An OBD-II Tool To Confirm The Code

To resolve any check engine light error code, the first step is to confirm that it exists. You can connect an OBD II device to your vehicle’s computer.

It will instantly display any errors and previous errors you have fixed. If you see the P0700 code, you can proceed to test the following DIY and see if it fixes the error.

2. Inspect The transmission control module

To eliminate the P0700 code, you can inspect and repair the transmission control module. This module is usually located in the back of your transmission. If you have trouble finding it, you can refer to the owner’s manual of your vehicle, which will give you detailed instructions.

Quickly do a visual inspection to check for damage to the transmission control module or its electrical connections. After identifying any damages, you can replace the transmission control unit.

To avoid buying the wrong part, ensure that you compare the new part with the original one.

3. Clear the Code

After replacing the transmission control module, you need to reconnect the OBDII scanner again to the vehicle’s computer and remove any inactive errors. After doing this, the P0700 error code should disappear. A second scan is recommended to confirm that the issue has been resolved.

If you are still having trouble with your car after trying the DIY solution, take it to the nearest shop to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic to identify the root cause.

How Much Does It Cost to Fix the P0700 Code?

on average, it will cost between 300 to 900 to fix the P0700 code depending on your vehicle type and model and the extent of the repair. Repair costs for a defective transmission control module can run from $840 to $900.

If the problem is with the transmission, the repair cost can go up to $5000 for some vehicles. If your problem is limited to the transmission valve body, repairs can cost anywhere from $320 to $900.

Also Read: P0456 Code – Meaning, Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

Frequently Asked Questions – P0700 Code

Conclusion – P0700 Code

P0700 is a diagnostic code (DTC) for “Transmission Control System Malfunction.” Commonly, P0700 can be seen with one or more shift code solenoid codes. It could be simple fluid flow due to a transmission failure or even a transmission leak.

It is common to find metal flakes in transmission fluid when it is bad. These metal flakes can clog the shift solenoids and the transmission valve bodies and may result in the P0700 error code.

If excessive metal buildup is detected in the transmission, it could be due to mechanical wear. This can indicate that the transmission should be rebuilt or replaced.

We hope this post was of help to you. Please feel free to check out our other blog articles if you want to get more tips for fixing and preventing car troubles!