P0711: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
What Does P0711 Mean?
P0711 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance. This code relates to the transmission system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 9 different vehicle models.
The automatic transmission is controlled by the TCM using input from speed sensors, temperature sensors, and pressure sensors. When the TCM detects a fault, it may activate limp mode (2nd or 3rd gear only). Shift solenoids are electromagnetic valves inside the valve body controlling hydraulic fluid flow. Modern transmissions use 4-8 solenoids in combination for each gear. Solenoid failures are often caused by contaminated fluid — worn clutch material and degraded fluid create varnish that sticks solenoids. Always check transmission fluid first: level, color (red/pink good, brown/black bad), and smell (burnt = internal damage). Transmission DTCs escalate fast — a $200 solenoid fix can become a $3000-$5000 rebuild if ignored.
Symptoms of P0711
- ⚠️ Check engine/transmission warning light on
- ⚠️ Harsh, delayed, or erratic shifting
- ⚠️ Transmission stuck in one gear (limp mode)
- ⚠️ No upshift or no downshift
- ⚠️ Transmission slipping
- ⚠️ RPM flares between shifts
Common Causes
- 🔍 Faulty shift solenoid
- 🔍 Contaminated transmission fluid
- 🔍 Wiring issue between TCM and solenoid
- 🔍 Valve body wear
- 🔍 TCM internal failure
P0711 Reports by Year
Real Owner Reports
From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.
"I am bringing in my 2017 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium due to a serious transmission problem. The vehicle’s 10R60 / 10R80 automatic transmission becomes stuck in Drive/Sport mode and fails to shift properly, which is a significant safety concern since it prevents me from reliably selecting Park or N"
— Ford Mustang owner, 09/04/2025
"The transmission temperature sensor has gone bad in my 2016 Camaro ss with 6.2L engine, GM has recalled thousands of 2016 vehicles with this very issue, these transmissions have enough issues as it is, and GM knows it’s an issue or they wouldn’t have already recalled all those other 2016 vehicles. "
— Chevrolet Camaro owner, 04/17/2025
"On Friday August 12th 2022 at 9:30pm check engine light came on after car was sitting turned off for a few hours while my fiance was buffing/polishing/waxing the car. Checked the chevy app, it didn't list any problems. Took it to auto zone. They ran diagnostics. Came back codes P0711 and P0700. Made"
— Chevrolet Camaro owner, 08/12/2022
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Most Reported Vehicles for P0711
Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
| # | Vehicle | Reports |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CHEVROLET CAMARO | |
| 2 | HYUNDAI ELANTRA | |
| 3 | KIA OPTIMA | |
| 4 | KIA SORENTO | |
| 5 | FORD MUSTANG | |
| 6 | HYUNDAI SONATA | |
| 7 | KIA SPORTAGE | |
| 8 | JEEP CHEROKEE | |
| 9 | GMC YUKON |
P0711 Reports by Vehicle
Detailed NHTSA complaint analysis for each vehicle model.
Diagnostic Tips
- Check fluid level and condition FIRST
- Multiple codes suggest valve body or internal damage
- Monitor solenoid duty cycle with scan tool
- Solenoids often accessible by removing pan
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Replacing solenoid without flushing contaminated fluid
- ❌ Using aftermarket fluid instead of manufacturer-specified
- ❌ Driving in limp mode for extended periods
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a shift solenoid?
Can I drive in limp mode?
How much for solenoid replacement?
Can fluid change fix it?
What To Do Next
Possible Fixes
- 🔧 Replace shift solenoid or pack
- 🔧 Transmission fluid flush with manufacturer fluid
- 🔧 Repair wiring to transmission
- 🔧 Replace valve body
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1
Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
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2
Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
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3
Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.