P0717: Input/Turbine Shaft Speed Sensor A Circuit No Signal
What Does P0717 Mean?
P0717 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Input/Turbine Shaft Speed Sensor A Circuit No Signal. This code relates to the transmission system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 14 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 P0717
- ⚠️ 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
P0717 Reports by Year
Real Owner Reports
From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.
"Was driving car on 3/3/25 with 91,635 miles and lights started flashed saying "Emission System Problem" and "Transmission System Problem." Car slowed down and wouldn't shift gears putting me in danger of being stranded on the street. Screen showing drive mode went blank and wouldn't show if car was "
— Honda Pilot owner, 03/03/2025
"Drove car out of driveway, after driving approximately 150-200 feet the dashboard wrench icon ( powertrain problem ) illuminated and car went into limp mode. Read MIL codes, had codes P0715, Input/Turbine Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction and P0717, Input/Turbine Speed Sensor No Signal. Traced wi"
— Ford Fusion owner, 09/23/2021
"THE SPEEDOMETER STOPPED WORKING, TWO OR THREE WARNING LIGHT ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CAME ON, THE CAR LOST ALL POWER. I WOULD ONLY GO FORWARD WITH THE GAS PETAL PUSHED TO THE FLOOR. IT'S A KNOWN ISSUE, FOUND OUT FROM YOUTUBE MANY PEOPLE HAVE HAD THE SAME EXACT ISSUE. IT'S AN INTERMITTENT ISSUE THAT"
— Ford Edge owner, 03/07/2015
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Most Reported Vehicles for P0717
Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
| # | Vehicle | Reports |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | NISSAN PATHFINDER | |
| 2 | CHEVROLET TAHOE | |
| 3 | NISSAN XTERRA | |
| 4 | DODGE CALIBER | |
| 5 | GMC ACADIA | |
| 6 | HONDA PILOT | |
| 7 | FORD FUSION | |
| 8 | FORD EDGE | |
| 9 | CHEVROLET EQUINOX | |
| 10 | CHEVROLET MALIBU | |
| 11 | KIA SORENTO | |
| 12 | VOLKSWAGEN JETTA | |
| 13 | MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS | |
| 14 | MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS |
P0717 Reports by Vehicle
Detailed NHTSA complaint analysis for each vehicle model.
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?
Reported Repair Costs for P0717
Based on 3 owner-reported repair costs from NHTSA complaints.
⚠️ These are owner-reported costs, not estimates. Actual costs vary by location, labor rates, and root cause. Source: NHTSA complaints database.
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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3
Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.