P0712: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low Input

What does P0712 mean?

Transmission fluid temperature sensor A signal voltage is too low. On a typical negative-temperature-coefficient circuit that can be interpreted as extremely hot fluid, even when the actual transmission is cold.

Generic OBD-II definition: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low Input. Confirm applicability in your vehicle service information.

Common causes

• Signal shorted to ground
• Internally shorted temperature sensor
• Damaged internal harness or connector

Symptoms

• Harsh or delayed shifts
• Torque-converter clutch behavior changes
• Limp mode or transmission warning

Diagnostic focus

Low signal does not mean cold fluid. A false hot reading can trigger protective shifting, but a real overtemperature warning must still be taken seriously.

Can I keep driving with P0712?

Severity: Medium Avoid towing, steep loads, and prolonged driving until diagnosed. Stop and arrange recovery if the transmission slips, loses drive, overheats, or bangs into gear; driving through slip can cause further damage.

If the check engine light is flashing or the car runs badly, stop driving and have it checked.

Typical fixes

• Compare the cold transmission reading with ambient
• Test for a grounded signal circuit
• Check sensor resistance using the specified temperature chart

Sources & review

• OBD-Codes.com: P0712
• TroubleCodes.net: generic code definitions

Definitions and diagnostic background checked 2026-11-06. Generic guidance, not a substitute for the service procedure for your exact year, engine, and transmission.