Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
What does P0712 mean?
The P0712 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low. This is a moderate severity code.
Common Symptoms
- Check Engine Light illuminated
- TCM assumes fluid is very hot
- Transmission may activate cooling fan continuously
- Harsh shifting
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Shorted TFT sensor (internal short) Very High
- Short to ground in TFT sensor signal wire High
- Contaminated connector causing low resistance path Moderate
- TCM input circuit fault Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
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Check TFT sensor reading on a scan tool -- an abnormally high temperature reading when cold indicates low circuit
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Measure sensor resistance -- very low reading at room temperature confirms a shorted sensor
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Disconnect the sensor and check if the reading changes to very cold/high resistance
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Check the signal wire for short to ground
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Replace the TFT sensor if internally shorted
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code P0712?
Drive short distances. The TCM thinks the fluid is very hot and may apply maximum cooling and altered shift strategy, causing harsh shifts.
Why does low circuit mean high temperature reading?
The TFT sensor is a thermistor whose resistance decreases as temperature rises. A short circuit mimics very low resistance, which the TCM interprets as extremely high temperature.
Can I test the TFT sensor at home?
Yes. Disconnect the sensor and measure resistance with a multimeter. At room temperature (68F), it should read approximately 80K-120K ohms. Very low resistance indicates failure.