P0714
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor "A" Circuit Intermittent
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The P0714 code specifically indicates an intermittent fault in the transmission fluid temperature sensor circuit. This means the PCM has detected the temperature signal dropping out, spiking, or changing erratically in a way that doesn't correspond to normal fluid temperature behavior. Intermittent codes can be more frustrating to diagnose than hard faults because the problem may not be present during testing.
The driving symptoms tend to come and go as well. You might experience perfectly normal shifting on one trip and harsh, erratic shifts on the next. The transmission may briefly enter limp mode and then return to normal operation. The check engine light may illuminate and then turn off after a few drive cycles, only to return again later.
Diagnosis focuses on finding the intermittent connection. Start by carefully inspecting the wiring harness from the sensor to the PCM, looking for chafed insulation, stretched wires, or areas where the harness contacts hot or moving components. Perform a wiggle test on the connector and wiring while monitoring the sensor signal with a scan tool — any signal dropout during the test points to the problem area. If the wiring checks out, replacing the sensor is the next step. Even though the problem is intermittent, it should be addressed promptly because the PCM cannot properly protect the transmission from overheating without reliable temperature data.
Severity
Symptoms
- •Unpredictable shifting patterns that come and go
- •Occasional harsh shifts or gear slippage
- •Intermittent transmission temperature warning light
- •Sporadic limp mode activation
- •Check engine light that may turn on and off
- •Inconsistent torque converter clutch operation
Likely Causes
A wire that makes contact intermittently due to vibration, thermal expansion, or physical movement causes the signal to cut in and out, resulting in erratic temperature readings that the PCM flags as intermittent.
A sensor with a degraded thermistor element may work correctly when cold but fail or produce erratic readings as it heats up, or vice versa.
Oxidation on connector pins can create a high-resistance connection that works under some conditions but fails under others, particularly when affected by heat or moisture.
In rare cases, electrical noise from alternators, ignition coils, or other high-voltage components near the sensor wiring can cause intermittent signal disruptions.
Estimated Cost
Professional Repair
Includes parts + labor
Common Fixes
- Wiggle-test and repair loose wiring connections
- Replace the transmission fluid temperature sensor
- Clean, tighten, and protect connector pins with dielectric grease
- Re-route sensor wiring away from interference sources