Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor - High
Transmission fluid temperature sensor is reading too high.
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What it means (plain English)
The transmission fluid temperature sensor measures how hot the transmission fluid gets. If it gets too hot, that means the fluid isn't doing its job properly, which can cause shifting problems and damage the transmission.
What the computer is actually seeing
The computer sees a voltage signal from the temperature sensor that exceeds its normal operating range, indicating temperatures higher than 250°F (121°C).
What a healthy reading looks like
Normal operating temperature should range between 175°F and 225°F (79°C - 107°C).
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.
- 11. Check the transmission fluid level and condition. If it's low or burnt, top off or replace it before further testing.
- 22. Inspect the wiring and connector to the temperature sensor for damage or corrosion. Repair any issues found.
- 33. Use a scan tool to view the actual temperature readings from the sensor. If the reading is over 250°F (121°C) during normal operating conditions, continue to step 4.
- 44. Check the resistance of the temperature sensor. At room temperature, it should read around 2-3 kOhms; if it's significantly off, replace the sensor.
- 55. If the sensor checks out, inspect the transmission cooler and lines for blockages or concerns that may cause overheating.
Common causes
- Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor
- Overheating transmission due to low fluid level
- Faulty wiring or connector to the sensor
- Blocked transmission cooler
Typical repair cost
$$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive with this code?
It can be driven short distances but should be addressed soon to prevent transmission damage.
Will this code come back after reset?
If the underlying issue isn't fixed, the code is likely to return once the transmission reaches high temperatures again.
What happens if I ignore this code?
Ignoring it can lead to transmission failure, overheating, and costly repairs.
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