Transmission

P0700Transmission Control System Malfunction

High RiskDifficulty:Hard1 hour - 2 days
Is it safe to drive?
Short trips, with care

The transmission usually goes into limp mode and stays in one gear. You can drive a short distance to a workshop, but forcing it makes the damage worse.

Will it pass inspection?
Risky

The code alone may not be an inspection defect, but an illuminated warning light is recorded as one.

01 / 06

What does P0700 mean?

This code means 'a fault is stored in the transmission control unit'; it doesn't tell you what the problem is. The real information is in the transmission unit's codes. The transmission module must be read separately for diagnosis.

On automatic, CVT or dual-clutch transmissions, when the transmission control unit (TCM) stores a fault it informs the engine ECU, which stores P0700 and turns on the warning light. The actual fault (solenoid, pressure, clutch, sensor) is in the TCM's P07xx or manufacturer-specific codes.

02 / 06

How to fix P0700

Steps are ordered from cheapest to most expensive. If a step doesn't solve it, move to the next one, and don't let a garage replace parts blindly.

  1. 1

    Have the transmission unit read separately

    Pro job

    The actual fault code is there. Scanners that only read the engine ECU are not enough.

  2. 2

    Oil level and condition

    Pro job

    Level and colour are checked. Burnt-smelling, dark fluid is replaced.

  3. 3

    Adaptation / relearn

    Pro job

    Especially on dual-clutch and CVT transmissions, a relearn should be done after a fluid change or repair.

  4. 4

    Solenoid, mechatronic or clutch repair

    Pro job

    The relevant part is repaired or replaced according to the transmission codes.

Don't replace these first

  • Complete transmission
  • Engine control unit (ECU)

These parts are often replaced unnecessarily for P0700. Don't spend money on them before doing the checks above.

03 / 06

P0700 symptoms

  • Check engine light and transmission warning
  • Transmission stuck in one gear
  • Harsh or delayed shifts
  • Judder when pulling away

04 / 06

What causes P0700?

  • Low or degraded transmission fluidHigh
  • Faulty shift solenoid or valve bodyMedium
  • Clutch wear on dual-clutch transmissionsMedium
  • TCM / mechatronic failureMedium
  • Connector or wiring problemLow

05 / 06

Which cars commonly get P0700?

06 / 06

Frequently asked questions

What does fault code P0700 mean?

P0700 stands for “Transmission Control System Malfunction”. This code means 'a fault is stored in the transmission control unit'; it doesn't tell you what the problem is. The real information is in the transmission unit's codes. The transmission module must be read separately for diagnosis.

Can I drive with code P0700?

Short trips, with care. The transmission usually goes into limp mode and stays in one gear. You can drive a short distance to a workshop, but forcing it makes the damage worse.

Will a car with code P0700 pass vehicle inspection?

Risky. The code alone may not be an inspection defect, but an illuminated warning light is recorded as one.

Does the transmission need replacing for P0700?

Most of the time, no. The code only says there's a fault in the transmission unit. Cases fixed with a fluid change, adaptation or a single solenoid are very common.