Manual Transmission
DTC P0712
Circuit Description
Important: This diagnostic procedure is for manual transmission vehicles with RPO VD1 and/or RPO Z06.
The Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) sensor contains a semiconductor device which changes the resistance based on the temperature, a thermistor. The TFT sensor has a signal circuit and a ground circuit. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) applies a voltage, approximately 5 volts, on the signal circuit to the sensor. The PCM monitors the changes in this voltage caused by changes in the resistance of the sensor in order to determine the fluid temperature.
When the PCM senses a signal voltage lower than the normal operating range of the sensor, this DTC will set.
Conditions for Running the DTC
The ignition switch in the ON position or the engine is operating.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
^ The transmission fluid temperature is greater than 150°C (302°F).
^ All conditions are met for 10 seconds.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
^ The PCM stores the DTC information into memory when the diagnostic runs and fails.
^ The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) will not illuminate
^ The PCM records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The PCM stores this information in the Failure Records.
^ A message is displayed on the Drivers Information Center.
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
^ A last test failed, or current DTC, clears when the diagnostic runs and does not fail.
^ A history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles, if no failures are reported by this or any other non-emission related diagnostic.
^ Use a scan tool in order to clear the DTC.
Diagnostic Aids
Important:
^ Remove any debris from the PCM connector surfaces before servicing the PCM. Inspect the PCM connector gaskets when diagnosing/replacing the module. Ensure that the gaskets are installed correctly. The gaskets prevent contaminate intrusion into the PCM.
^ For any test that requires probing the PCM or a component harness connector, use the J 35616-A GM terminal test kit. Using this kit prevents damage to the harness/component terminals.
^ If the engine has sat overnight, the transmission fluid temperature and the intake air temperature values should display within a few degrees of each other. If the temperatures are not within 3°C (5°F), refer to Temperature vs Resistance.
^ For an intermittent, refer to Symptoms - Engine Controls.
Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
2. This step determines if the malfunction is present.
3. Using the Freeze Frame/Failure Records data may aid in locating an intermittent condition. If you cannot duplicate the DTC, the information included in the Freeze Frame/Failure Records data can help determine how many miles since the DTC set. The Fail Counter and Pass Counter can also help determine how many ignition cycles the diagnostic reported a pass and/or a fail.
Operate the vehicle within the same freeze frame conditions, such as RPM, load, vehicle speed, temperature, that you observed. This will isolate when the DTC failed.
4. A transmission temperature below -30°C (-22°F) indicates the PCM and the TFT sensor wiring are OK.
5. Disconnecting the PCM enables the DMM to test continuity of the circuits. This aids in locating an open or a shorted circuit.
7. Inspect for proper terminal tension/connections at the PCM harness before replacing the PCM.