1. What is P0717?

P0717 is a Diagnostic Trouble Code indicating an Input Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal. The input turbine speed sensor (ITSS) monitors the rotational speed of the transmission’s input turbine, sending data to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) to regulate shifting, torque converter lockup, and transmission pressure.

This code triggers when the TCM fails to receive a valid signal from the ITSS for a specified duration, disrupting proper transmission operation and potentially causing performance issues or damage.

Impact on Transmission Function

Without a valid ITSS signal, the TCM cannot accurately match engine speed to transmission speed. In European and American vehicles with automatic transmissions (e.g., Ford 10R80, GM 8L90, VW DSG), this leads to harsh shifting, delayed engagement, or torque converter lockup failure—all of which increase wear on transmission components over time.

2. Common Causes in European & American Vehicles

P0717 stems from input turbine speed sensor or circuit failures. Real-world diagnostic cases include:

• Failed ITSS (Ford F-150 10R80 Transmission) – UR1000 live data showed 0 RPM from ITSS; replacing OEM sensor #BL3Z-7M101-A restored normal shifting.
• Damaged Wiring Harness (Chevrolet Silverado 8L90) – Rodent-chewed wires between sensor and TCM caused open circuit; heat-shielded wiring repair fixed intermittent P0717.
• Corroded Connector (Volkswagen Golf GTI DSG) – Water intrusion from damaged seal increased resistance; cleaning with electrical contact cleaner + dielectric grease resolved signal loss.
• Low Transmission Fluid (Ford Explorer 6F50) – 2-quart low fluid caused sensor immersion failure; topping off fluid + UR1000 adaptive learning reset cleared code.
• TCM Software Glitch – 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe with incorrect sensor threshold settings; UR1000 TSB lookup identified GM service bulletin 22-NA-187 requiring TCM reflash.

3. Key Symptoms

Vehicles with P0717 typically exhibit these transmission-related symptoms:

• Check Engine Light illuminated (often with P0700 Transmission Control System code)
• Transmission slipping or delayed engagement when shifting
• Harsh or erratic gear changes (especially during acceleration)
• Torque converter not locking up (increased RPM at highway speeds)
• Transmission enters "limp mode" (limited to 2nd or 3rd gear)
• Decreased fuel efficiency (10-15% drop reported in highway driving)
• UR1000 live data showing "Input Turbine Speed: 0 RPM" while driving

4. Models Prone to P0717

These models show higher incidence due to transmission design or sensor placement:

• Ford: 2017-2023 F-150 (10R80), 2018-2022 Explorer (6F50), 2020-2023 Expedition (10R60)
• Chevrolet: 2019-2023 Silverado 1500 (8L90), 2020-2023 Tahoe (10L80), 2018-2022 Equinox (9T50)
• Volkswagen: 2018-2023 Golf GTI (DSG 7-speed), 2019-2023 Tiguan (DSG 7-speed), 2020-2023 Arteon (DSG 7-speed)

Relevant TSBs: Ford 21-2298, GM 22-NA-187, VW 21G034 (sensor and wiring harness improvements).

5. Diagnostic Steps with UR1000

Use ICARZONE UR1000 to accurately diagnose P0717 and avoid unnecessary transmission repairs:

Case Example: 2020 Chevrolet Silverado with P0717 – UR1000 showed 0 RPM from ITSS while output speed registered 650 RPM. Resistance test measured 2500Ω (outside spec), confirming sensor failure. Replacement + adaptive learning reset resolved shifting issues.

6. Fixes & Execution

Repair strategies depend on UR1000 diagnostic results:

• Sensor Replacement – Install OEM input turbine speed sensor (Ford #BL3Z-7M101-A, GM #12677836, VW #02E927321). Access requires removing transmission pan or side cover depending on model.
• Wiring Repair – Replace damaged sections of wiring harness with heat-resistant导线 (20-gauge). Use wire loom to protect against abrasion and secure away from moving parts.
• Connector Service – Disconnect battery, clean terminals with electrical contact cleaner, apply dielectric grease, and ensure proper locking tab engagement.
• Fluid Service – Perform complete transmission fluid exchange (not just drain-and-fill) using manufacturer-specified fluid (Ford MERCON ULV, GM DEXRON VI, VW G 052 182 A2).
• TCM Reprogramming – Use UR1000 or dealer tools to install latest calibration (critical for 2019+ models with known sensor interpretation issues).

Model-Specific Tips

• Ford 10R80: Torque sensor to 8 ft-lbs and perform "Transmission Adaptive Learning Reset" via UR1000 after replacement.
• GM 8L90: Replace transmission filter during sensor replacement and use OEM gaskets to prevent leaks.
• VW DSG: After sensor replacement, perform "Clutch Adaptation" procedure with UR1000 to restore shift quality.

7. Repair Costs & Safety Tips

Critical Safety Precautions

• Disconnect battery negative terminal before working on transmission components to prevent electrical shorts.
• Work on level surface and use proper jack stands when accessing under-vehicle sensors.
• Allow transmission to cool completely before opening (fluid temperatures exceed 200°F during operation).
• Use manufacturer-specified fluid only – incorrect fluid types can damage sensors and clutches.
• After repair, perform 50+ mile test drive with varying speeds to complete adaptive learning.

8. Preventive Maintenance

Avoid P0717 with these proactive measures:

• Change transmission fluid every 60,000–80,000 miles (40,000 miles for towing vehicles).
• Inspect ITSS wiring harness during fluid services – look for abrasion, corrosion, or rodent damage.
• Use UR1000 to monitor turbine speed sensor data during routine scans – early detection of fluctuations prevents failures.
• Check transmission fluid level monthly – maintain between min/max marks to protect sensors.
• Address any shifting abnormalities immediately – delayed repairs increase sensor and transmission damage risk.
• Install rodent deterrents (peppermint oil, ultrasonic devices) if parking in areas with rodent activity.

9. Frequently Asked Questions

10. Summary

P0717 indicates an Input Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal, preventing the TCM from receiving critical speed data for proper transmission operation. Common in Ford, Chevrolet, and Volkswagen models, this code stems from sensor failure, wiring damage, low fluid, or software issues. Using the ICARZONE UR1000 for diagnostics – including live data monitoring, circuit testing, and TSB verification – ensures accurate identification of root causes. Repairs range from sensor replacement to wiring repairs, with proper fluid maintenance and TCM calibration critical for resolution. Prompt attention prevents costly transmission damage.