P0713

Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input

Powertrain Transmission Control TFT Sensor Circuit 🟡 Moderate — Fix within a week ⚠️ Drive with Care
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What This Actually Means

In plain language — no jargon

The transmission fluid temperature sensor is sending a voltage signal that's too low, like a thermometer that always reads colder than reality. This prevents the engine computer from properly adjusting transmission shift points and cooling.

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Symptoms You May Notice

3 known symptoms for this code
Check Engine Light illuminated
Transmission shifting harshly or at wrong times
Reduced fuel economy due to improper shift scheduling
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How Your ECU Detects This

Technical sensor logic and voltage thresholds

The ECM monitors the analog voltage output from the transmission fluid temperature (TFT) sensor, which should vary with fluid temperature. When voltage falls below the expected minimum threshold for a given temperature range, the ECM logs P0713. The sensor uses a thermistor that changes resistance with temperature, producing proportional voltage changes.

Voltage & Parameter Thresholds

ParameterNormal RangeFault Condition
TFT Sensor Voltage 0.5V - 4.5V (varies with temp) Below 0.1V or excessive low reading
Fluid Temperature Range -40°C to 150°C Reading suggests <-50°C implausibly
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Diagnostic & DIY Fix Guide

Check these in order — from cheapest to most complex
1
Wiring harness connector
Inspect and clean the TFT sensor connector for corrosion, moisture, or loose pins.
2
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor
Replace the sensor if resistance values are out of range when tested with a multimeter.
3
Wiring and shielding
Check harness for cuts, pinches, or poor grounds between sensor and ECM; repair or replace as needed.
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When to See a Professional Mechanic

Not all fault codes are safe to DIY

Code P0713 is a moderate fault. You can generally drive to a workshop, but avoid long trips or high-load driving (motorway, uphill towing) until it is diagnosed. If the code keeps returning after clearing, or if you notice the symptoms listed above worsening, do not delay professional diagnosis. Many moderate codes have multiple possible root causes — a mechanic with live OBD data can identify the exact fault more efficiently than part-by-part trial and error.

Safety note: OBD-II codes identify the system or circuit where a fault was detected — they do not always identify the exact failed component. A professional mechanic using live sensor data will diagnose the root cause more accurately than replacing parts based on the code alone.
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How to Clear Code P0713

What happens after you fix the fault

Once the fault is repaired, P0713 can be cleared using any OBD-II scanner. Connect the scanner, navigate to "Clear Codes" or "Erase DTCs," and confirm. The check engine light turns off immediately.

The code will return if the root cause was not actually fixed. The ECM re-detects the fault within 1–3 drive cycles and sets the code again.

✅ Safe to Clear When
  • Fault has been diagnosed and repaired
  • You want to confirm the repair worked
  • Code appeared after a sensor was cleaned
⚠️ Do Not Clear When
  • Preparing for an emissions/PUC test
  • Root cause is still undiagnosed
  • Check engine light is flashing
Emissions test note: Clearing codes resets OBD readiness monitors. Most vehicles need 50–100 km of mixed driving before monitors complete. Do not clear codes immediately before an emissions or PUC inspection.