P0706 serious

Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

The P0706 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance. This is a serious severity code.

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Keep driving?: Yes, but fix soon
DIY difficulty: medium
Estimated cost: $30-$100 for range sensor; $80-$200 labor

Check Your Fluid First

ANCEL AD310 OBD-II Scanner

Read and clear transmission codes. Many trans codes are caused by low or burnt fluid -- check level and color before assuming the worst.

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Read Transmission Codes

LAUNCH CRP123X (Reads All Systems)

Basic scanners only read engine codes. This reads transmission, ABS, and airbag too.

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Common Symptoms

Vehicle starts in gear without pressing brake
Reverse lights on in Drive
Transmission shifts incorrectly or not at all
Check Engine Light on

Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)

Failed or misadjusted transmission range sensor (neutral safety switch) Very High
Damaged wiring or connector at range sensor Moderate
Sticking shift cable not moving the range sensor properly Moderate

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

Move the shifter through all positions while monitoring range sensor position on a scan tool. Each position should show a unique signal.
Inspect range sensor adjustment: most require alignment with the shift lever in Park.
Test continuity of each circuit in the range sensor connector per the wiring diagram.
Inspect the shift cable for binding or incorrect adjustment.

Common Fixes by Vehicle

What techs usually find when diagnosing P0706 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:

2003-2015 Nissan Altima/Maxima CVT Moderate DIY

The transmission range sensor (also called inhibitor switch) on Nissan CVTs develops internal contact wear causing intermittent incorrect range signals. Located on the outside of the transmission near the manual shift lever. Replace with OEM Nissan 42700-1XF01 for reliable fitment.

Labor: 1-2 hours

Common fix part Nissan Transmission Range Sensor View on Amazon→ Compare fitment at PartsGeek→

2004-2014 Chevrolet Silverado 4L60E/6L80E Moderate DIY

The neutral safety switch (PRNDL sensor) on GM trucks with 4L60E or 6L80E transmissions fails from fluid contamination. The sensor is on the driver side of the transmission. Unplug and test each position with an ohmmeter. Replace with ACDelco 24230298 if any position reads open circuit.

Labor: 1-1.5 hours

Common fix part ACDelco Neutral Safety Switch View on Amazon→ Compare fitment at PartsGeek→

2005-2014 Ford F-150 4R75E Moderate DIY

The digital transmission range sensor on Ford 4R75E transmissions reads erratically when the adjustment goes out of spec. Before replacing, loosen the sensor mounting bolts and re-align using the alignment tool (Rotunda T97L-70010-A). If adjustment does not fix it, replace the sensor. Located on the side of the transmission.

Labor: 1-2 hours

Common fix part Ford Digital Transmission Range Sensor View on Amazon→ Compare fitment at PartsGeek→

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the transmission range sensor?

The transmission range sensor (also called the neutral safety switch or multi-function switch) tells the TCM and ECM which gear the driver has selected. It also controls the reverse lights and prevents the engine from starting in gear.