What it means
ATF temperature sensor signal voltage above the upper threshold — short to supply or sensor fault. Wiring faults of this kind typically come from chafing, water ingress at connector seals, or pin push-back — a wiggle test on the harness while the code is active often confirms the location.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
Transmission fluid temperature sensor A sends a temperature-dependent electrical signal to the TCM. P0713 sets when that signal voltage is above the expected range, commonly because the signal wire is shorted to a supply or the sensor has failed; the TCM may respond with fallback shifting or limp mode.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Sensor circuit shorted to supply
- Transmission temperature sensor failed
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
Symptoms
- Check engine or transmission warning light on
- Harsh, delayed, or missing shifts
- Possible limp mode (locked in one gear)
- Slipping or shuddering during gear changes
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and check sensor A's live temperature for a reading that is implausibly cold or fixed compared with actual conditions.
- Inspect sensor A's connector seals, pins, and harness for water intrusion, chafing, pin push-back, or contact with a power wire.
- Use the manufacturer's wiring information to test for a signal wire short to supply and check the circuit for opens or poor connections.
- Test sensor A and its circuit following the manufacturer's procedure to determine whether the high signal comes from the sensor or the wiring.
- After repair, clear the code and confirm sensor A's reading changes plausibly as the transmission warms.
Common fixes
- Dry, clean, and secure sensor A's connector if water or poor contact is present.
- Repair chafed wiring or a signal wire shorted to supply.
- Replace transmission fluid temperature sensor A if it fails the specified test.
- Replace damaged connector terminals or seals that allow water intrusion.
Can I keep driving?
Limit driving because the TCM may restrict shifting or enter limp mode. Avoid towing and hard acceleration; stop if the transmission slips, shudders, or shifts unpredictably, since continued operation can worsen damage.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.