How much does it cost to fix P0713?

DIY repair typically costs $15–$80 for parts. Professional repair runs $100–$350 including parts and labor.

P0713

Powertrain

Moderate

Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor "A" Circuit High Input

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The P0713 code indicates that the PCM is receiving an abnormally high voltage signal from the transmission fluid temperature sensor, which corresponds to a very low (cold) temperature reading. Because the TFT sensor is a negative temperature coefficient thermistor, high resistance equals high voltage equals cold reading. When the circuit is open or the sensor fails open internally, the PCM sees maximum voltage and interprets it as the fluid being extremely cold.

This causes the PCM to operate the transmission as if the fluid hasn't warmed up, even after extended driving. You may experience delayed or firm shifts, the torque converter clutch may never engage (reducing fuel economy), and the transmission won't adapt its shift strategy for warmed-up conditions. Essentially, the transmission stays in its cold-start shift program indefinitely.

Diagnosis should start with a visual inspection of the sensor wiring and connector. An open wire is the most common cause — look for broken, chafed, or disconnected wires between the sensor and PCM. If the wiring is intact, test the sensor's resistance with a multimeter; it should change predictably with temperature. A reading of infinite resistance (OL on the meter) confirms the sensor has failed open and needs replacement. The TFT sensor is usually affordable and accessible on most vehicles.

Severity

Moderate — Address SoonThis Week

Symptoms

•Late or harsh shifting, especially when cold
•Increased fuel consumption
•Torque converter clutch won't engage
•Transmission doesn't warm up properly for driving conditions
•Check engine light illuminated
•Extended warm-up shifting behavior

Likely Causes

Open circuit in the TFT sensor wiring40%

A broken wire or disconnected connector creates an open circuit, resulting in maximum resistance and high voltage at the PCM — which the PCM reads as an extremely low (cold) transmission fluid temperature.

Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor (open internally)30%

The thermistor element inside the sensor can fail open, producing an infinite resistance reading that the PCM interprets as an implausibly cold temperature.

Loose or corroded connector pins20%

Poor contact at the sensor connector due to backed-out pins, corrosion, or spread terminals creates high resistance that mimics an open circuit condition.

PCM ground or reference voltage issue10%

If the 5-volt reference circuit or ground circuit shared with the sensor has a fault, the return voltage to the PCM will be abnormally high.