Fault code P0713 – a step-by-step guide to diagnosing and fixing it

The meaning of error code P0713 – Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input

P0713: Causes, signs and repairs

Error code P0713 is displayed and the check engine light is on - what does this mean?

The OBD/EOBD system has detected an error in the temperature sensor of the automatic transmission. DTC P0713 indicates that the transmission control unit is receiving too high a signal from the transmission fluid temperature sensor. For some manufacturers, this fault code may also be referred to as "ATF Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input".

What can cause this fault code?

Defective transmission fluid temperature sensor
Damaged wiring to the temperature sensor
Corroded or loose plug connections
Short circuit in the sensor cable
Defective transmission control unit (TCM)
Overheating of the transmission fluid
Contaminated or old ATF fluid

What symptoms occur in parallel with fault code P0713?

Shifting problems: The automatic transmission shifts jerkily or irregularly between gears
Emergency running program: The transmission switches to safety mode and stalls in one gear
Delayed shifting: Clearly noticeable delays when changing gear
Overheating: Unusually high transmission temperature and possible smell of burnt fluid
Loss of power: Reduced driving performance and poor acceleration

How can the problem with error code P0713 be rectified?

Repairing trouble code P0713 requires a systematic diagnosis of the transmission temperature sensor circuit.
Replacement of the defective transmission fluid temperature sensor including seals and cleaning of the sensor area
Repair or replacement of the damaged wiring between the sensor and control unit with appropriate automotive cables
Cleaning and renewal of corroded plug connections with contact spray and new seals
Complete change of the automatic transmission fluid (ATF) including filter and seals
Flushing the transmission cooling system to eliminate overheating problems
Replacement of the transmission control unit in the event of irreparable electronic defects

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about DTC P0713

Can I continue driving with error code P0713?

Short distances are possible, but the code P0713 can lead to transmission damage. The vehicle should be taken to a workshop as soon as possible, as the transmission is operating in emergency mode.

How much does it cost to repair error code P0713?

The costs vary depending on the cause: sensor replacement 150-300€, wiring repair 200-400€, ATF change 200-350€. Costs of €800-1500 can be incurred for control unit defects.

How long does it take to diagnose P0713?

The fault diagnosis of EOBD code P0713 usually takes 1-2 hours. The actual repair can take between 2-6 hours, depending on the cause.

Can P0713 be caused by incorrect transmission oil?

Yes, the use of incorrect ATF specifications or overdue oil changes can trigger error code P0713. Regular maintenance according to the manufacturer's specifications is important.

Is P0713 a common fault code?

DTC P0713 occurs particularly in vehicles with higher mileage. Automatic transmissions with over 150,000 km show this code more frequently due to wear.

What consequential damage can P0713 cause?

Untreated error code P0713 can lead to costly transmission damage as the thermal management system is not working properly. Overheating can damage clutches and valves.

Vehicles in which error code P0713 occurs most frequently

Error code P0713 is a transmission-specific OBD code that indicates problems with the ATF temperature sensor and can occur in various automatic transmissions, but is most common in the following vehicles:

BMW: 3 Series (E90/E91), 5 Series (E60/E61), X3 (E83), X5 (E70) (2004-2013)
Mercedes-Benz: C-Class (W204), E-Class (W211/W212), ML-Class (W164) (2005-2014)
Audi: A4 (B7/B8), A6 (C6/C7), Q5, Q7 (2005-2015)
Volkswagen: Touareg, Phaeton, Passat (B6/B7) with DSG gearbox (2005-2012)
Ford: Explorer, F-150, Mustang with automatic transmission (2004-2014)
General Motors: Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Cadillac Escalade (2007-2014)
Chrysler: Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Ram, Chrysler 300C (2005-2012)
Toyota: Camry, Highlander, Sienna with automatic transmission (2007-2015)
Honda: Pilot, Ridgeline, Odyssey (2006-2013)
Nissan: Pathfinder, Armada, Titan (2004-2015)

If the code P0713 occurs in your vehicle, you should first have the transmission fluid and its temperature checked. A professional diagnosis with an OBD scanner can identify the exact cause. As transmission repairs can be costly, it is advisable to rectify the problem at an early stage. In modern vehicles with complex automatic transmissions, the repair should always be carried out by a specialist workshop.

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