AutoCodesToyota – P0712 Toyota

P0712 Toyota Code - Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor 'A' Low Input

Quick Answer

The Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Temperature Sensor converts the fluid temperature into a resistance value for use by the Engine Control Module (ECM). Common causes include Faulty Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Temperature Sensor, Automatic Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Automatic 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 Toyota indicates Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor 'A' Low Input.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Temperature Sensor, Automatic Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Automatic 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 35,045
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 11, 2022
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Code P0712 Toyota Description

The Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Temperature Sensor converts the fluid temperature into a resistance value for use by the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM applies a voltage to the temperature sensor. The sensor resistance changes with the ATF temperature. As the temperature becomes higher, the sensor resistance decreases. One terminal of the sensor is grounded so that the sensor resistance decreases, and the voltage goes down as the temperature increases. The ECM calculates the fluid temperature based on the voltage signal.
This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) indicates an open or short in the ATF temperature sensor circuit. The ATF temperature sensor converts ATF temperature into an electrical resistance value. Based on the resistance, the ECM determines the ATF temperature, and the ECM detects an open or short in the ATF temperature circuit. If the resistance value of the ATF temperature is below 79 Ω*1 or higher than 156 kΩ*2, the ECM interprets this as a fault in the ATF sensor or wiring. The ECM will turn on the MIL and store the DTC.
OBDII Code P0712 Toyota - Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor 'A' Low Input - AutoCodes.com
P0712 Toyota Code - Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor 'A' Low Input

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0712 Toyota?

  • Faulty Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Temperature Sensor
  • Automatic Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Automatic Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0712 Toyota?

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 Toyota 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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Information for Specific Toyota Models

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 Toyota Code

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

P0712 indicates that the Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor 'A' is reporting a voltage or temperature reading that is lower than expected by the vehicle's ECU.

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

Common symptoms include erratic shifting, reduced fuel efficiency, transmission overheating, and the Check Engine Light turning on.

3. What causes the P0712 code on a Toyota?

Causes include a faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, low or contaminated transmission fluid, or issues within the ECU.

4. Can a P0712 code cause transmission damage?

Yes, prolonged driving with this code may lead to improper transmission operation, overheating, or long-term damage due to inaccurate temperature readings.

5. How do I diagnose code P0712 on a Toyota?

Diagnosis involves scanning the vehicle with an OBDII reader, inspecting the transmission fluid temperature sensor, checking wiring and connectors, and verifying fluid levels and condition.

6. How can I fix the P0712 code on a Toyota?

Repairs may include replacing the transmission fluid temperature sensor, repairing damaged wiring, cleaning electrical connections, or changing the transmission fluid if contaminated.

7. Is it safe to drive with code P0712 on a Toyota?

Driving with this code is not recommended as it can lead to poor transmission performance and potential overheating, risking further damage.

8. How much does it cost to fix code P0712 on a Toyota?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $150 to $400 depending on whether the sensor, wiring, or fluid needs replacement.

9. Can low transmission fluid trigger the P0712 code on a Toyota?

Yes, low or contaminated transmission fluid can cause inaccurate temperature readings and trigger this code.

10. Does clearing the P0712 code solve the problem on a Toyota?

Clearing the code may temporarily reset the warning, but the underlying issue must be repaired to prevent the code from returning.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0712 Toyota OBDII Code

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