P0700 Transmission control system malfunction (MIL request)
What P0700 means
P0700 is an informational code: the transmission control module has detected a fault and asked the engine computer to switch on the check engine light. It does not say what the fault is. The specific transmission codes must be read from the gearbox module.
P0700 is a generic SAE J2012 code: it means the same on every make. The exact cause still depends on the car, so read the freeze-frame data before replacing parts.
At a glance
- Severity
- Medium
- Typical repair cost
- 80–3000 €
- Workshop time
- 0.5–12 h
- Repair difficulty
- Medium
- DIY possible
- No
- Check engine light
- Yes
- Affects emissions test
- No
Parts and labour at an independent workshop in Europe. Main dealers charge more; the cause decides the bill, not the code.
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Harsh or delayed shifts
- Gearbox stuck in one gear (limp mode)
- Transmission warning on the dashboard
Common causes
- Another fault stored in the transmission module (solenoid, sensor, slipping)
- Low or degraded transmission fluid
- Wiring or connector fault at the gearbox
- Low battery voltage
- Faulty transmission control module
Can I keep driving with P0700?
You can drive, but have it checked soon. If the gearbox is in limp mode or slipping, drive gently and only as far as needed.
What to check first
- Read codes from the transmission control module, not only the engine
- Check transmission fluid level and condition where possible
- Inspect gearbox connectors for oil or corrosion
- Diagnose and repair according to the specific transmission codes found
Related codes
- P0705 Transmission range sensor circuit (PRNDL input)
- P0706 Transmission range sensor circuit range/performance
- P0711 Transmission fluid temperature sensor A range/performance
- P0715 Input/turbine shaft speed sensor A circuit
- P0716 Input/turbine shaft speed sensor A range/performance
- P0717 Input/turbine shaft speed sensor A no signal
- P0720 Output shaft speed sensor circuit
- P0722 Output shaft speed sensor no signal
Data: TORKO fault-code catalogue, built on OBDex (CC0-1.0) and reviewed against workshop practice. Informational only — it does not replace a diagnosis by a mechanic.
Updated: