Fault code P070A is called “Transmission Fluid Level Sensor Circuit Malfunction” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P070A
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic transmission code. Error P070A is considered a general code because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles. Although the specific repair steps may vary slightly depending on the model.
Many vehicles have a transmission control module called a transmission control module (TCM). The engine control module (PCM) communicates with the TCM. To monitor the automatic transmission for malfunctions.
If your vehicle retains code P070A, it means that the transmission control module (PCM) has received a signal from a special circuit fault sensor. The transmission fluid level sensor (TFL) is used to activate a warning light on the dashboard when the fluid level is low.
When the fluid level is within the acceptable range, the switch is grounded. When the transmission fluid drops below the specified level, the switch opens. A “low transmission fluid level” warning is then displayed on the instrument panel.
The TFL sensors receive a reference voltage from the PCM. The PCM monitors the circuit and when it detects the switch open, it turns on the low fluid warning on the instrument cluster.
If error P070A appears, the PCM or TCM has detected a transmission fluid level sensor circuit fault.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P070A has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- Check engine light on the control panel will illuminate (the code will be stored as a fault).
- The transmission fluid low level indicator light will illuminate.
- Difficulty shifting gears while driving may occur.
- Unstable or sudden gear shifting.
- Shifting gears takes a long time.
- Transmission may be put into emergency mode.
A stored code P070A indicates that a potentially serious transmission malfunction has been detected. The conditions that contributed to the stored code should be corrected as soon as possible.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P070A can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Transmission fluid level sensor (TFL) is defective.
- Transmission fluid level is low.
- Shorted or broken wires or other wiring problems.
- Sometimes faulty PCM is the cause.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P070A
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P070A:
- Inspect wires for breaks, melted wires, etc.
- Check transmission fluid level.
- Check transmission fluid level sensor (TFL), replace if necessary.
- Test the PCM / TCM modules.
After performing all the above actions, remove DTC P070A error code with a scan tool. It is also worth to test-drive and check if the error will return.
Diagnose and repair of problems
The first thing to check in case of P070A malfunction is to check the electrical part for damage. In today’s vehicles, electrical and electronic signals require good cabling for proper data transmission. Any malfunctions, such as breaks, disconnected connectors, or corrosion, can interrupt signals, resulting in transmission control failures.
Check the battery pack, as some PCM and TCM modules are sensitive to low voltage. If the battery is low, the system may detect this as a failure. Make sure the battery is putting out at least 12 volts, and that the alternator is running properly, at least 13 volts at idle.
Low ATF fluid levels can result in no pressure in the box, which can also be a problem that the TCM detects as a failure. Fuses should not be overlooked either, as a blown fuse is a common problem.
Very often, error code P070A appears due to a faulty sensor. To check this, turn off the ignition and set the multimeter to read in ohms.
Remove the transmission fluid level sensor connector and connect the meter to the sensor terminals. If the reading is outside the allowable limits specified in the technical manual, the sensor should be replaced.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P070A can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Chevrolet
- Citroen
- Dodge (RAM)
- Ford
- Hyundai
- Toyota
Fault code P070A can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P070B, P070C, P070D, P070E, P070F.
