Gear Selector Position Sensor Voltage Low
The gear selector position sensor is reporting a low voltage condition.
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What it means (plain English)
Inside the gearbox, the gear selector position sensor measures the position of the gear shift lever. It sends voltage signals to the engine control unit (ECU). If this voltage drops below a specified threshold, it triggers the SPN 6705 code because the ECU thinks there's a problem with the sensor or the wiring.
What the computer is actually seeing
The engine control unit (ECU) expects the gear selector position sensor to output between 0.5V to 4.5V depending on the gear position. A reading below 0.5V indicates a fault.
What a healthy reading looks like
Normal voltage range from gear selector position sensor should be 0.5V to 4.5V. Below 0.5V will trigger the fault.
Guided diagnostic — the DiagCoach way
Don't just throw parts at it. Walk through these in order — each step tells you whether to keep going or stop and fix what you found.
- 1Verify battery voltage is 12V or greater to ensure proper operation of the sensor and ECU.
- 2Inspect the wiring and connector for any physical damage or corrosion. Repair or replace as necessary.
- 3Using a multimeter, measure the voltage output of the gear selector position sensor while shifting through each gear. Expected readings should be within 0.5V to 4.5V. Note any gears that do not provide a valid output.
- 4If the sensor output is consistently below 0.5V across gears, replace the gear selector position sensor.
- 5If the sensor output is normal, check for continuity in the wiring from the sensor to the ECU. Repair as needed.
Common causes
- Faulty gear selector position sensor
- Shorted or open wiring in the sensor circuit
- Corrosion or bad connections at the sensor connector
- ECU programming errors
Typical repair cost
$$ - $$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive with this code active?
Moderate severity indicates you should fix it soon, as it may affect drivability.
Will this code come back after clearing?
It might return if the underlying issue, like a bad sensor or wiring problem, isn't fixed.
Why does this code appear alongside other gear selector codes?
Often, multiple codes indicate issues with the same system, which is why related codes are common.
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