P0718 means Input/Turbine Speed Sensor A Circuit Intermittent. The input or turbine speed signal is dropping out intermittently. 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 P0718 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.
P0718 symptoms
- Erratic or harsh shifts
- Limp mode that comes and goes
- Check engine light
Common causes of P0718
- Loose or corroded connector
- Damaged wiring
- Failing sensor or debris on its tip
How to diagnose P0718
- Wiggle-test the wiring while watching input speed
- Inspect the connector
- Check the sensor tip for metal debris
Can you drive with P0718?
Short distances.
P0718 tips
Metal debris collecting on the sensor tip can create intermittent signals and is also a clue to internal wear. Clean the tip, note how much debris there is, and recheck; heavy debris means the transmission itself needs attention, not just the sensor.
Will P0718 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 P0718 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 |
|---|---|
| P0715 | Input/Turbine Speed Sensor A Circuit |
| P0716 | Input/Turbine Speed Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance |
| P0717 | Input/Turbine Speed Sensor A Circuit No Signal |
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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