Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Ford)
What does P1710 mean?
The P1710 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Ford). This is a moderate severity code.
Common Symptoms
- Check Engine Light on
- Transmission shifting harshly
- Delayed torque converter lockup
- Transmission overheating
- Poor fuel economy
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor (TFT) Very High
- Corroded TFT sensor connector High
- Open or shorted wiring to TFT sensor Moderate
- Actual transmission overheating condition Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
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Compare the TFT sensor reading on a scan tool to ambient temperature before starting (should be close to outside temp when cold).
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Inspect the TFT sensor connector at the transmission for corrosion or fluid leakage.
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Measure TFT sensor resistance and compare to the temperature/resistance chart (typically 100K ohms at 68F).
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Check for 5V reference voltage at the sensor connector with ignition on.
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If the sensor reads abnormally high, verify the transmission is not actually overheating with an infrared thermometer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does transmission temperature matter?
The PCM adjusts shift timing, line pressure, and torque converter lockup based on fluid temperature. An incorrect reading causes inappropriate shift behavior.
Where is the TFT sensor?
On most Ford transmissions, the TFT sensor is inside the transmission, typically threaded into the valve body or integrated into the internal wiring harness connector.
Can a bad TFT sensor cause the transmission to overheat?
Not directly, but an incorrect reading can prevent torque converter lockup, which would increase fluid temperature during highway driving.