P0712: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low
What Does P0712 Mean?
P0712 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low. This code relates to the transmission system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 3 different vehicle models.
The automatic transmission is controlled by the TCM using input from speed sensors, temperature sensors, and pressure sensors. When the TCM detects a fault, it may activate limp mode (2nd or 3rd gear only). Shift solenoids are electromagnetic valves inside the valve body controlling hydraulic fluid flow. Modern transmissions use 4-8 solenoids in combination for each gear. Solenoid failures are often caused by contaminated fluid — worn clutch material and degraded fluid create varnish that sticks solenoids. Always check transmission fluid first: level, color (red/pink good, brown/black bad), and smell (burnt = internal damage). Transmission DTCs escalate fast — a $200 solenoid fix can become a $3000-$5000 rebuild if ignored.
Symptoms of P0712
- ⚠️ Check engine/transmission warning light on
- ⚠️ Harsh, delayed, or erratic shifting
- ⚠️ Transmission stuck in one gear (limp mode)
- ⚠️ No upshift or no downshift
- ⚠️ Transmission slipping
- ⚠️ RPM flares between shifts
Common Causes
- 🔍 Faulty shift solenoid
- 🔍 Contaminated transmission fluid
- 🔍 Wiring issue between TCM and solenoid
- 🔍 Valve body wear
- 🔍 TCM internal failure
P0712 Reports by Year
Real Owner Reports
From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.
"KIA TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN TRANSAXLE OIL TEMPERATURE SENSOR DTC P0711, P0712 & P0713 HTTPS://STATIC.OEMDTC.COM/TSB/2012-043.PDF MY VEHICLE, WHEN STILL COLD EXPERIENCES ROUGH SHIFTING. VEHICLE WILL SLAM INTO GEAR, UP THROUGH GEARS AND DOWN SHIFT HARD AS WELL, UNTIL THE CAR HAS WARMED UP. A"
— Kia Sportage owner, 08/19/2019
"WHEN ACCELERATING MY VEHICLE IS SLOW TO TAKE OFF WITH MAX SPEEDS OF ONLY 50 MPH ON THE FREEWAY AND 30 MPH CITY. I HAVE PRESSED THE GAS ALL THE WAY AND CAR IS STILL LAGGING. THE CEL STAYS ON AND THE FOLLOWING DIAGNOSTIC CODES ARE READ P0722 WHICH IS TRANS OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR U1146 WHICH IS A COMMUNIC"
— Dodge Caliber owner, 03/31/2018
"I had a transmission failure on my 2016 Subaru Legacy and there were no warning signs before this incident occurred. I was on a road trip driving at highway speeds and suddenly without warning I heard a loud bang. Then the "at oil temp" light came on, then the "check engine light", smelled something"
— Subaru Legacy owner, 09/14/2022
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Most Reported Vehicles for P0712
Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
| # | Vehicle | Reports |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | KIA SPORTAGE | |
| 2 | DODGE CALIBER | |
| 3 | SUBARU LEGACY |
Diagnostic Tips
- Check fluid level and condition FIRST
- Multiple codes suggest valve body or internal damage
- Monitor solenoid duty cycle with scan tool
- Solenoids often accessible by removing pan
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Replacing solenoid without flushing contaminated fluid
- ❌ Using aftermarket fluid instead of manufacturer-specified
- ❌ Driving in limp mode for extended periods
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a shift solenoid?
Can I drive in limp mode?
How much for solenoid replacement?
Can fluid change fix it?
What To Do Next
Possible Fixes
- 🔧 Replace shift solenoid or pack
- 🔧 Transmission fluid flush with manufacturer fluid
- 🔧 Repair wiring to transmission
- 🔧 Replace valve body
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1
Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
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2
Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
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Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.