P0712🔧 Transmission / Temperature sensingStop and fix promptly

P0712: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low (Meaning, Causes, Fixes)

Reviewed 2026-10-25 · Based on 2 cited source(s)

What P0712 means

The transmission fluid temperature (TFT) sensor tells the computer how hot the transmission fluid is, and the computer uses that to set shift points, line pressure and torque converter clutch operation. OBD-Codes.com says the sensor is often in the transmission oil pan, gets a reference voltage (usually 5 volts) from the computer, and is a thermistor whose resistance and signal voltage drop as the fluid gets hotter. Because of that, a signal that is stuck low looks to the computer like very hot fluid even when it isn't. OBD-Codes.com says P0712 sets when the computer sees a low TFT sensor signal, usually because the circuit is shorted. RepairPal describes it more generally, saying it sets when the computer detects an incorrect signal from the sensor. A code like this is about the sensor signal, not proof that the fluid is actually overheating. The sources differ slightly on the name: RepairPal calls it Circuit Low, while OBD-Codes.com says Circuit Low Input. The related sensor A codes are P0710 (circuit), P0711 (range/performance), P0713 (circuit high) and P0714 (intermittent).

Severity: can I keep driving?

Stop and fix promptly

Get it diagnosed soon and drive gently until you do. RepairPal rates P0712 Urgent, meaning it can cause severe damage or be unsafe. OBD-Codes.com calls it moderate to severe, says it can sometimes point to a transmission problem, and advises addressing it as soon as possible. If the transmission is stuck in limp mode or shifting harshly or late, keep trips short and slow and have it checked.

Common symptoms

Likely causes

Roughly most to least common, based on the sources below. Your vehicle may differ.

  1. Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor (both sources)
  2. Wiring problems, such as a shorted sensor circuit (both sources)
  3. Engine computer (PCM) failure (both sources)
  4. Transmission computer (TCM) failure (RepairPal)
  5. A problem inside the transmission, especially if other transmission codes are also set (OBD-Codes.com)

Diagnostic steps you can do

⚠ Before you start

Work on a cool engine, parked on level ground with the parking brake set. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.

  1. Check the transmission fluid level and condition using the method in your owner's or service manual.
  2. Inspect the sensor wiring and connectors for loose plugs, chafed or pinched wires and corrosion, repair anything you find, clear the code and see if it returns (OBD-Codes.com).
  3. Check for technical service bulletins for your vehicle (OBD-Codes.com).
  4. OBD-Codes.com describes a quick circuit check with a scan tool: watch the transmission temperature reading, then unplug the sensor. The reading should drop to a very low value. If the reading changes as expected when the sensor is unplugged and the terminals are jumpered, the wiring and computer can see the input and the sensor itself is the likely fault.
  5. OBD-Codes.com also describes a resistance test: unplug the sensor, measure across its terminals with a multimeter, and start the engine. Resistance should drop smoothly as things warm up; if it doesn't, the sensor is faulty. Use your vehicle's specs where available.

Typical fixes

Repair costs vary widely by vehicle, region, parts brand and shop, so we don't quote prices. Get a written estimate after diagnosis.

🛠 When to call a pro

  • The transmission is in limp mode or shifting harshly
  • Other transmission codes are set along with P0712
  • The sensor is inside the transmission pan or built into an internal harness, so replacing it means draining fluid and dropping the pan
  • A new sensor doesn't clear the code, which can point to wiring, the computer or the transmission itself

Where to buy

Plain search links. Always match parts to your exact year, make, model and engine.

OBD2 scanners on Amazon Parts at Advance Auto Parts catalog at RockAuto

FAQs

Can I drive with P0712?

Only gently and not for long. RepairPal rates it Urgent and OBD-Codes.com calls it moderate to severe. The transmission may shift harshly or sit in limp mode until it's fixed.

Does P0712 mean my transmission is overheating?

Not by itself. A low signal from this sensor can read as very hot fluid even when it isn't, because the sensor's voltage drops as temperature rises. If you also have a transmission temperature warning light, check the fluid level and let it cool, then have it diagnosed.

What's the difference between P0712 and P0713?

Both are about transmission fluid temperature sensor A. P0712 means the circuit signal is too low, which OBD-Codes.com says usually means a short. P0713 means the signal is too high.

How much does it cost to fix P0712?

Neither source gives a repair cost for P0712. A wiring or connector fix costs far less than a sensor that is inside the pan or part of an internal harness, so get it properly diagnosed first.

Sources

  1. OBD-Codes.com: P0712 Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low Input
  2. RepairPal: P0712 Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor "A" Circuit Low (rated Urgent)

Last reviewed 2026-10-25. Code definitions and repair steps can vary by manufacturer. Confirm with your vehicle's service information.