P0713 means Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit High. The fluid temperature sensor signal voltage is high, which reads as very cold fluid or an open circuit. It is a generic OBD-II code, so the definition is the same on any make, but the most likely cause varies by engine; confirm with a scan tool and the service information for your vehicle before buying parts.
What P0713 means
Electronically controlled automatics are run by a transmission control module (TCM), a separate box or part of the engine computer. It reads speed sensors, the range sensor and fluid temperature to decide when to shift, and drives solenoids that apply clutches and the torque converter clutch. Many basic code readers only show the generic P0700; a scan tool that reads the transmission module shows the specific fault. Check fluid level and condition first, since low or burnt fluid causes many transmission codes.
P0713 symptoms
- Converter clutch not engaging
- Delayed upshifts
- Fluid temperature reading very low
Common causes of P0713
- Open sensor or wiring
- Loose case connector
- Damaged internal harness
How to diagnose P0713
- Check the case connector
- Check sensor resistance
- Inspect the internal harness
Can you drive with P0713?
Usually yes, but repair before towing.
P0713 tips
A sensor that reads extremely cold after a long drive is open. Many transmissions will not lock the converter until the fluid is warm, so fuel economy drops.
Will P0713 clear itself?
If the fault stops, the computer turns off the check engine light by itself after several drive cycles without seeing it again, and the code stays in memory as history for a while. Clearing P0713 with a scan tool after a repair is fine, but if the cause is still there the code returns, sometimes within one drive. Disconnecting the battery also clears codes on most vehicles, but it erases learned fuel trims and idle settings as well.
Related codes
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| P0710 | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit |
| P0712 | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low |
| P0711 | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance |
Guides that help
When it is more than a sensor
If the fault turns out to be internal (worn clutches, a failed converter or a damaged valve body), compare a rebuild with a replacement in transmission rebuild vs replacement and transmission replacement cost, identify your unit with what transmission do I have?, and browse our transmissions.
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