P0708 Code: Transmission Range Sensor “A” Circuit High

Reviewed by

Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

Written by CarParts.com Research Team - Updated on December 19th, 2024

Reading Time: 2 minutes
Summary
  • The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0708 indicates “Transmission Range Sensor “A” Circuit High.”
  • The powertrain control module (PCM) will log this code when it detects two different gear positions simultaneously for more than 30 seconds.
  • Common causes of the P0708 code are a bad transmission range sensor, damaged wiring, and a misadjusted range sensor, transmission shift cable, or shift linkage.
  • The common symptoms of a P0708 code are a lack of engine power and an illuminated check engine light.

The transmission range sensor, also called a neutral safety switch, is a device responsible for monitoring the position of your gear shifter and sends this information to your vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM) using voltage signals. Once the PCM detects two different gear positions at the same time for a given number of seconds, it will trigger the P0708 code.

What Does the P0708 Code Mean?

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0708 stands for “Transmission Range Sensor “A” Circuit High”

Your vehicle’s transmission range sensor checks the position of your gear shifter and sends this data to your vehicle’s PCM. It’s located outside the transmission box or on the valve body.

The neutral safety switch is a device responsible for monitoring the position of your gear shifter. It sends this information to your vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM) using voltage signals.

The P0708 code is a type B DTC. That means that the PCM needs to detect the same condition twice before it activates the check engine light. Once the PCM detects two different gear positions at the same time for more than 30 seconds, it will trigger the P0708 code and the vehicle will operate under fail-safe or limp mode.

Read our extensive technical discussion about transmission range sensors to better understand codes like P0708.

Note: The definition of code P0708 code may be different per vehicle manufacturer. Consult the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.

What are the Possible Causes of the P0708 Code?

What are the Possible Causes of the P0708 Code?

How to Diagnose the P0708 Code

DTC P0708 is a generic code that can be set in various vehicles. Although similar symptoms may be observed across different makes and models, the steps for diagnosis and repair steps vary depending on the vehicle you own.

It’s always a good idea to take your vehicle to a licensed mechanic for an accurate diagnosis. Watch this video for more information about what the diagnostic procedure might involve:

How to Fix the P0708 Code

Fixing DTC P0708 won’t be easy without the proper tools and know-how. In most cases, it’s best to leave the job to a licensed mechanic. But if you’re an experienced DIYer who’d like to do the job yourself, we recommend consulting a repair manual or an online repair database for vehicle-specific information.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.