AutoCodes – Mercedes-Benz – P0712 Mercedes-Benz

P0712 Mercedes-Benz Code - Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input

Quick Answer

The ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) Temperature Sensor converts the fluid temperature into a resistance value. 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 Mercedes-Benz 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 5,361

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 Mercedes-Benz Description

The ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) Temperature Sensor converts the fluid temperature into a resistance value. The sensor resistance changes with the transmission fluid temperature. As the temperature becomes higher, the sensor resistance decreases. The Transmission Control Module (TCM) monitors the ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) Temperature Sensor signal. The TCM sets the OBDII code when the ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) Temperature Sensor signal is out of factory specifications.

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0712 Mercedes-Benz?

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 Mercedes-Benz?

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 Mercedes-Benz 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.

Need more information about the P0712 Mercedes-Benz code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0712 Mercedes-Benz code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0712 Mercedes-Benz code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 Mercedes-Benz Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0712 mean on a Mercedes-Benz?

P0712 indicates that the Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) Sensor is reporting a low input signal, which may suggest incorrect or abnormal readings of the transmission fluid temperature.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0712 on a Mercedes-Benz?

Symptoms may include erratic shifting, transmission overheating, poor fuel efficiency, or the vehicle entering limp mode to protect the transmission.

3. What causes the P0712 code on a Mercedes-Benz?

Common causes include a faulty TFT sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, transmission fluid contamination, or issues with the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

4. Can driving with a P0712 code damage the transmission?

Yes, prolonged driving with this code can result in transmission overheating or improper operation, potentially leading to significant damage.

5. How is code P0712 diagnosed on a Mercedes-Benz?

Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool, inspecting the TFT sensor, checking for wiring or connector damage, and testing the transmission fluid temperature signal.

6. Can low transmission fluid cause a P0712 code?

Yes, insufficient or contaminated transmission fluid can lead to improper sensor readings and trigger the P0712 code.

7. How do you fix a P0712 code on a Mercedes-Benz?

Repairs may involve replacing the TFT sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, flushing and replacing transmission fluid, or reprogramming the PCM if necessary.

8. How much does it cost to fix a P0712 code on a Mercedes-Benz?

The cost can vary widely depending on the exact issue, but replacing a TFT sensor typically ranges from $150 to $400, including parts and labor.

9. Can a bad TFT sensor cause transmission overheating?

Yes, a faulty TFT sensor can provide incorrect temperature readings, potentially leading to overheating if the transmission is not properly managed.

10. Do I need a mechanic to fix the P0712 code on my Mercedes-Benz?

While some repairs, like checking fluid levels, can be done by a DIYer, diagnosing and repairing sensor or wiring issues often requires professional expertise and tools.