AutoCodes – Pontiac – P0712 Pontiac

P0712 Pontiac Code - Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input

Quick Answer

The Automatic Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) sensor is a resistor, or thermistor, which changes value based on temperature. Common causes include Faulty Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor, Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0712 Pontiac indicates Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor, Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 3,419

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jan 30, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0712 Pontiac Description

The Automatic Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) sensor is a resistor, or thermistor, which changes value based on temperature. The sensor has a negative-temperature coefficient. This means that as the temperature increases, the resistance decreases, and as the temperature decreases, the resistance increases. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) supplies a 5-volt reference signal to the sensor and measures the voltage drop in the circuit. When the transmission fluid is cold, the sensor resistance is high and the PCM detects high signal voltage. As the fluid temperature warms to a normal operating temperature, the resistance becomes less and the signal voltage decreases.

OBDII Code P0712 Pontiac - Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input - AutoCodes.com — P0712 Pontiac Code - Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0712 Pontiac?

Faulty Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0712 Pontiac?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0712 Pontiac code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0712 Pontiac Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0712 mean on a Pontiac?

P0712 indicates that the Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) sensor in your Pontiac is reporting a signal voltage that is too low, typically due to a circuit issue or sensor malfunction.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P0712 code on a Pontiac?

Symptoms can include erratic or harsh shifting, transmission overheating, poor fuel efficiency, the vehicle going into limp mode, and the check engine light turning on.

3. What causes the P0712 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty TFT sensor, damaged or corroded wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, low transmission fluid levels, or a failed powertrain control module (PCM).

4. Can I drive my Pontiac with a P0712 code?

Driving with a P0712 code is not recommended as it can lead to transmission damage if the fluid temperature is not monitored or if the vehicle goes into limp mode.

5. How do I diagnose the P0712 code on my Pontiac?

Diagnosis involves checking the transmission fluid level and condition, inspecting the TFT sensor and its wiring for damage, and using a multimeter to test the sensorâ€™s resistance and voltage.

6. How do I fix the P0712 code on a Pontiac?

Repairs may include replacing the TFT sensor, fixing damaged wiring or connectors, ensuring the transmission fluid is at the proper level, or updating/replacing the PCM if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to fix a P0712 code on a Pontiac?

Costs vary depending on the issue, with sensor replacements typically ranging from $100 to $300, while wiring repairs or PCM replacements may cost more.

8. Can low transmission fluid cause a P0712 code?

Yes, low or contaminated transmission fluid can cause the sensor to give incorrect readings, triggering the P0712 code.

9. Where is the Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) sensor located on a Pontiac?

The TFT sensor is usually located inside the transmission, often integrated into the transmission fluid pressure sensor or mounted on the valve body.

10. Will clearing the P0712 code fix the problem?

Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue will not fix the problem, and the code is likely to return until the root cause is resolved.