Can you keep driving?
Can you keep driving?
Stop driving if any of these apply
- !The check-engine light is flashing or the engine is shaking badly.
- !The vehicle is stalling, struggling to accelerate, or obviously running rough.
What to check first
Step-by-step checks
- 1
Safety first
Avoid driving hard if the transmission is shifting oddly or going into limp mode
- 2
Free - no tools
Check whether the reading is pegged hot on a cold start
- 3
Basic tool needed
Inspect the sensor connector and harness for open-circuit behavior, heat damage, or loose fitment
- 4
Basic tool needed
Look for signs of actual overheating or fluid smell
- 5
Basic tool needed
If scan data is available, compare the temperature reading with the vehicle's operating state
- 6
Basic tool needed
Notice whether the code appeared after service or after towing/hard use
If the code returns
- -If the signal is stuck high, open circuit wiring or sensor failure becomes more likely.
- -If the transmission is actually hot, solve the cooling issue too.
- -If the reading changes when the harness is moved, focus on wiring before replacing the sensor.
Background
What this code means
P0713 is a generic OBD-II code for a high-input transmission fluid temperature sensor signal.
That usually means the ECU is seeing an unrealistically hot value, or the circuit is open and defaulting to an extreme reading. The problem is often electrical before it is a true heat event.
Diagnosis
Common causes
Open sensor circuit
A broken wire or loose terminal can make the ECU see a very high value.
Failed transmission fluid temperature sensor
The sensor may have drifted high or failed internally.
Connector damage or corrosion
Poor contact can create an unrealistic hot reading.
Actual overheating
A real heat problem can also trigger the code.
Avoid these mistakes
What not to do
- xDo not assume the fluid is fine if the transmission is actually hot.
- xDo not replace the module first if the sensor circuit is clearly open.
Parts
Parts that may need replacing
See also
Related OBD codes
Source notes
Generic OBD-II (SAE J1979 / ISO 15031-5). P0713 was seeded from dtcdb and then expanded around high-input transmission fluid temperature faults, with emphasis on open circuits and overheating checks.
This guide is written as a generic multi-make reference, so bulletin history, sensor locations, and repair order can still change by manufacturer and engine family.
This is generic OBD-II guidance and should not override vehicle-specific service information. Exact diagnosis and repair steps vary by make, engine family, and model year.
Last reviewed: 2026-04-10
Reference: Open reference