P1705 Code: Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction | Diagnose & Fix with ICARZONE UR800

P1705 Code: Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction | Diagnose & Fix with ICARZONE UR800

Table of Contents 1. What is P1705? 2. Common Causes 3. Key Symptoms 4. Models Prone to P1705 5. Diagnostic Steps with ICARZONE UR800 6. Fixes & Execution 7. Repair Costs & Safety Tips 8. Preventive Maintenance 9. Frequently Asked Questions 10. Summary
Diagnostic Guide

P1705: Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction

Diagnose P1705 in Ford, Chevrolet, and Volkswagen vehicles. Learn causes, symptoms, and fixes using the ICARZONE UR800 scanner.

Get ICARZONE UR800 Now
P1705

1. What is P1705?

P1705 indicates a malfunction in the Transmission Range Sensor Circuit. This sensor communicates gear position to the TCM/ECM. P1705 triggers when voltage is too high, low, or intermittent.


Symptoms include incorrect gear display, harsh shifting, or limp mode. Early detection prevents transmission damage.

Note: Applies to automatic transmissions on Ford, Chevrolet, and Volkswagen models; persistent P1705 may cause drivetrain faults.

2. Common Causes

  • Faulty Transmission Range Sensor (Ford Explorer 3.5L) — Replacing sensor cleared P1705 in UR800 scan.
  • Damaged Wiring / Connector (Chevrolet Malibu 1.5L) — Frayed wires or corroded connector caused intermittent P1705.
  • ECM Misreading (Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T) — Software glitch triggered false P1705; ECM update fixed the issue.
  • Fluid Contamination — Dirty transmission fluid affecting sensor readings.

3. Key Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light illuminated with P1705 stored
  • Incorrect gear display
  • Harsh or delayed shifting
  • Limp mode or limited gear range
  • Transmission jerking during acceleration

4. Models Prone to P1705

  • Ford: 2017–2023 Explorer 3.5L, 2018–2022 F-150 3.5L EcoBoost
  • Chevrolet: 2018–2023 Malibu 1.5L, 2018–2023 Equinox 1.5L Turbo
  • Volkswagen: 2018–2023 Tiguan 2.0T, 2019–2023 Jetta 1.4T

Relevant TSBs: Ford 22-1560, GM 23-NA-125, VW 21G040.

5. Diagnostic Steps with UR800

Step Action Goal Pass/Fail
1 Scan transmission system for DTCs Identify P1705 and related codes Pass: Only P1705 | Fail: Multiple transmission codes
2 Live Data: TR sensor voltage & gear signals Check proper voltage & gear position during start Pass: Normal range | Fail: High/low or erratic signals
3 Connector & wiring inspection Detect corrosion, loose, or broken wires Pass: Clean & intact | Fail: Replace wiring
4 Replace transmission range sensor if needed Clear code & restore proper gear reporting Pass: Code cleared | Fail: Check ECM
5 ECM software update Ensure latest version installed Pass: Updated | Fail: Update required

6. Fixes & Execution

  • Replace faulty transmission range sensor with OEM part
  • Repair or replace damaged wiring harness or connectors
  • Clean connectors and apply dielectric grease
  • Update ECM software if misreporting P1705
  • Test drive to ensure code cleared and proper transmission operation

7. Repair Costs & Safety Tips

  • Transmission Range Sensor Replacement: $120–$300
  • Wiring harness repair: $50–$150
  • ECM software update: $0–$50
  • Total labor: $80–$150 depending on model
  • Disconnect battery before replacing sensor
  • Check transmission fluid & related components during service

8. Preventive Maintenance

  • Regular transmission fluid replacement
  • Inspect wiring & connectors during routine service
  • Update ECM software as recommended by manufacturer
  • Use OEM or high-quality aftermarket TR sensors

9. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can P1705 trigger engine limp mode? Yes, if the TR sensor signals are inconsistent, ECM may restrict gear usage to protect transmission.
Q2: Will replacing the sensor always clear P1705? Usually yes, but wiring issues or ECM faults can persist. Scan again after repair.
Q3: Can I use aftermarket scanners? Yes, but ICARZONE UR800 provides live data & transmission-specific functions for accurate diagnostics.

10. Summary

P1705 indicates a Transmission Range Sensor Circuit fault. Early diagnosis with the UR800 scanner prevents transmission damage. Follow proper diagnostic steps, inspect wiring, replace sensor if needed, and keep ECM updated. Preventive maintenance ensures longevity and smooth shifting.

Diagnose P1705 Easily with UR800

Get the ICARZONE UR800 scanner to quickly read, clear, and live monitor P1705 and other transmission codes on Ford, Chevrolet, and Volkswagen vehicles.

Buy UR800 Now