P0705 on 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler: Transmission Range Sensor Malfunction Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler

The 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler (JK) used two different automatic transmissions, which is a critical detail for this code. Models from 2007-2011 have the 4-speed 42RLE, while 2012-2018 models use the 5-speed W5A580 (also known as NAG1). The Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) is located and serviced differently on each. On the 42RLE, the TRS is an external unit on the side of the transmission. On the W5A580, a Mercedes-Benz design also called the 722.6, the sensor function is integrated into the valve body's electrical conductor plate inside the transmission pan. Given the Wrangler's common use in off-road conditions, external wiring and sensors are particularly vulnerable to damage and corrosion from water, mud, and debris.

Generation note: This range covers the entire Jeep Wrangler JK generation (2007-2018). However, there is a significant powertrain change: - 2007-2011 models use the 4-speed 42RLE automatic transmission. The Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) is an external component mounted on the driver's side of the transmission case. - 2012-2018 models use the 5-speed W5A580 (NAG1) automatic transmission. The range sensor function is integrated into the electrical conductor plate, which is attached to the valve body inside the transmission.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Vehicle will not crank or start
• Engine only starts in Neutral, but not in Park.
• Transmission gets stuck in one gear (limp mode), often 2nd gear.
• Harsh or delayed shifting.
• Incorrect or no gear indicator on the dashboard.
• Reverse lights do not work.
• PRNDL indicator on dash may be blank or have a box around all gears

Most Likely Causes

1. Faulty Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) / Conductor Plate 🔴 High Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly On 42RLE models, the external sensor is exposed to the elements, especially on an off-road vehicle like the Wrangler. On W5A580 models, the internal conductor plate is a known failure point across many Chrysler/Mercedes vehicles that use this transmission.
   How to confirm: Use a scan tool to monitor the transmission range sensor data. As you move the shifter, verify that the gear position displayed on the scan tool matches the shifter's position. If the data is erratic, incorrect, or does not change, the sensor/conductor plate is likely faulty.
   Typical fix: For 2007-2011 (42RLE), replace the external Transmission Range Sensor. For 2012-2018 (W5A580), replace the valve body conductor plate, which requires dropping the transmission pan. It is highly recommended to also replace the 13-pin connector plug adapter and transmission filter at the same time.
   Est. part cost: $50-$350
2. Damaged Wiring or Corroded Connector 🟡 Medium Probability The Wrangler's chassis and underbody are frequently exposed to water, mud, and physical impacts from off-roading, which can damage the wiring harness or cause corrosion in the connectors leading to the transmission. On W5A580 models, the 13-pin connector's O-rings are a notorious failure point, allowing transmission fluid to wick up into the connector and harness, causing shorts.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness going to the transmission for any signs of chafing, melting, or breaks. Unplug the main transmission connector and the sensor connector (on 42RLE models) and check for green or white corrosion on the pins. For W5A580 models, specifically check for ATF inside the 13-pin connector.
   Typical fix: Clean the connector pins with an electrical contact cleaner or replace the connector pigtail. Repair or replace the damaged section of the wiring harness. For W5A580, replace the 13-pin connector plug adapter (Mopar P/N 68021352AA).
   Est. part cost: $20-$100
3. Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly While not a direct cause of a circuit code, very low or dirty fluid can cause erratic transmission behavior that may sometimes be accompanied by electrical fault codes. Fluid can become contaminated from internal component wear or from the aforementioned leaking 13-pin connector on the W5A580.
   How to confirm: Check the transmission fluid level and condition. The 42RLE has a dipstick. The W5A580 does not have a dipstick and requires a special tool and procedure to check the level. Fluid should be at the correct level, pink/red in color, and not smell burnt.
   Typical fix: Perform a transmission fluid and filter change using the correct fluid type (ATF+4 for 42RLE/W5A580).
   Est. part cost: $75-$200

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Transmission Control Module (TCM): → Shop Transmission Assembly This is a rare cause and should only be considered after all other possibilities (sensor, wiring, fluid) have been thoroughly ruled out. The TCM is integrated into the PCM on the Wrangler JK.
• Misadjusted Shift Linkage: If the mechanical linkage from the shifter to the transmission is loose or bent, it can prevent the sensor from reading the correct gear position. This can happen after transmission service or due to damage from off-roading.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Read the fault codes with an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0705 is present, and check for any other related codes like P0700.
2. Check the transmission fluid level and condition. Old, burnt, or low fluid can cause a variety of issues. For the W5A580, this requires a special dipstick tool and a temperature-based chart.
3. For 2007-2011 (42RLE): Visually inspect the external Transmission Range Sensor on the driver's side of the transmission. Check its connector and wiring for corrosion, damage, or looseness. The harness can be damaged by the front driveshaft if not properly secured.
4. For 2012-2018 (W5A580): Inspect the main 13-pin electrical connector at the rear passenger side of the transmission. A common failure is transmission fluid wicking up the pins and into the connector, causing shorts. If fluid is present, the connector plug adapter (Mopar P/N 68021352AA) must be replaced.
5. Use a scan tool with live data to monitor the 'Transmission Range' or 'PRNDL' input. Move the shifter through all gears (P, R, N, D). The reading on the scan tool should match the shifter position exactly and without delay.
6. If the scan tool data is incorrect or doesn't change, the sensor/circuit is faulty. Test the wiring between the sensor and the PCM for continuity and shorts using a digital multimeter and a vehicle-specific wiring diagram.
7. If the wiring is good, the Transmission Range Sensor (on 42RLE) or the conductor plate (on W5A580) is the most likely cause and should be replaced.
8. After the repair, clear the codes and perform a test drive to ensure the issue is resolved. For the W5A580, a transmission relearn procedure with a capable scan tool may be required.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Transmission Range Sensor (Neutral Safety Switch) (OEM #5078911AA) — This is the primary component that fails, causing the P0705 code on 2007-2011 models with the 42RLE transmission.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Dorman (P/N 917-678), Standard Motor Products
  OEM price range: $80-$150
  Aftermarket price range: $40-$90
• Valve Body Conductor Plate (OEM #52108308AC) — For 2012-2018 models with the W5A580/NAG1 transmission, the range sensor is integrated into this plate, which is a common failure item.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Bosch, Dorman
  OEM price range: $200-$350
  Aftermarket price range: $150-$250
• Transmission Connector Plug Adapter (13-pin) (OEM #68021352AA) — On W5A580/NAG1 models, the O-rings on this connector fail, allowing fluid to leak into the electrical connection, causing shorts. It's often replaced preventatively when servicing the conductor plate.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, URO Parts
  OEM price range: $25-$50
  Aftermarket price range: $15-$30

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0700 — P0700 is a generic code indicating that the Transmission Control Module (TCM) has stored a fault. It almost always appears alongside a more specific transmission code like P0705.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• TSB 21-010-06: While not directly for P0705, this TSB and its successors discuss transmission fluid types and address issues like fluid leaks at the 13-pin electrical connector on NAG1 (W5A580) transmissions, a common cause of electrical faults.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• 42RLE Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) Continuity Check — expected: With the sensor connector unplugged, check for continuity (near 0 ohms) between specific pins based on shifter position. Park: Pins B & C. Reverse: Pins B & C. Neutral: Pins B & C. Drive: No continuity between B & C. A more detailed test involves checking continuity across multiple pin pairs for each gear selection.. Failure: Infinite resistance (open circuit) or high resistance when continuity is expected, or continuity when an open is expected, indicates a faulty sensor switch.
• 42RLE TRS Circuit to PCM Wiring Resistance — expected: Resistance should be below 5.0 ohms when measuring between the TRS harness connector and the corresponding pin at the PCM harness connector.. Failure: Resistance above 5.0 ohms indicates excessive resistance or an open in the wiring harness that needs to be repaired.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH (or equivalent high-level scanner): View Transmission DTC Event Data — When diagnosing an intermittent P0705, the event data (or freeze frame data) can show the vehicle conditions (speed, temp, etc.) at the exact moment the fault was logged, which can help pinpoint the cause.
• wiTECH (or equivalent high-level scanner): Transmission Verification Test (after repair) — After replacing a component like the TRS or conductor plate, this guided procedure runs the transmission through its paces to confirm that the fault is gone and normal operation is restored.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• 42RLE TRS Sense Circuits (T1, T3, T41) — These are signal wires running from the Transmission Range Sensor to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). For example, on a 2008 Wrangler, the T41 signal is on Pin 29 of PCM connector C3 (a gray connector). The T1 signal is on Pin 15 of C3, and the T3 signal is on Pin 16 of C3.. The PCM determines the gear position by interpreting the combination of signals from these circuits. A fault on any one of these wires can cause an invalid combination, triggering P0705. Testing for continuity and voltage at these specific PCM pins is a definitive way to isolate a wiring problem from a sensor problem.
• W5A580 Conductor Plate Connector (13-pin) — Located on the rear passenger side of the transmission case. This is the main electrical connection to the valve body and integrated range sensor.. This connector is the single most common failure point for electrical issues on the W5A580. The O-rings fail, allowing ATF to leak into the connector, shorting out pins including those for the range sensor signals, and can even wick up the harness to the TCM/PCM.
• Engine/Chassis Ground — A critical ground connection is often located under the ignition coil pack.. While not part of the TRS circuit itself, a corroded main ground can cause widespread electrical issues and fluctuating voltages, which can lead the PCM to misinterpret sensor data and set false codes like P0705. This is often overlooked.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Jeep Liberty Forum (applicable to 42RLE) (Jeep Liberty with 42RLE transmission) — P0705 code present, other transmission codes may also appear (e.g., P0750).
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Replacing the Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) did not fix the code.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The root cause was a corroded ground wire located under the ignition coil. Cleaning the ground connection point to bare metal and re-securing it resolved the code.
• JK-Forum.com user (2012 Jeep Wrangler (W5A580 transmission)) — Check engine light with P0705, transmission stuck in limp mode (2nd gear).
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Clearing the code would only work temporarily; it would return upon driving.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The 13-pin connector on the transmission was full of transmission fluid. The fix was to replace the conductor plate, the 13-pin connector plug adapter, the filter, and the fluid. The user noted the importance of replacing the connector plug, not just the conductor plate.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 52108323AC (and many others) → 68021352AA — Part consolidation and potential design improvements to the O-rings to prevent fluid leaks.
  Heads up: Part number 68021352AA is the current and correct replacement for the 13-pin connector plug on the W5A580 transmission. Using older stock or incorrect numbers may lead to repeat failures.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2007-2011 vs 2012-2018: The entire diagnostic approach changes. 2007-2011 (42RLE) focuses on an external sensor and its dedicated wiring. 2012-2018 (W5A580) focuses on an internal conductor plate and the 13-pin connector, requiring removal of the transmission pan for the primary fix.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Other Known Issues on This Vehicle

Issues unrelated to this code that are worth knowing about as an owner of this generation:

• Excessive Oil Consumption (3.8L V6) 🔴 High — Very common on 2007-2011 models, often appearing after 50,000 miles. Some owners report consuming a quart of oil every 500-1000 miles.
• Left Cylinder Head Failure (3.6L Pentastar) 🔴 High — Primarily affects 2012-2013 models, causing a ticking noise, misfires (e.g., P0306), and check engine light. (Ref: Chrysler Extended Warranty (X56) to 10 years/150,000 miles for the left cylinder head.)
• Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) Failure 🔴 High — Common across 2007-2014 models, causing a wide range of bizarre electrical issues like no-start, fuel pump failure, horn honking randomly, and wipers activating on their own. (Ref: Multiple recalls and lawsuits, though not all issues were covered for all years.)
• 'Death Wobble' Steering Oscillation 🔴 High — Can occur at any mileage on both stock and modified JKs. It is a violent shaking of the front end triggered by a bump at speed, caused by worn or loose steering/suspension components (track bar, ball joints, tie rod ends).
• Cracked Oil Filter Housing / Cooler (3.6L Pentastar) 🟠 Medium — Common on 2014+ models. The plastic housing can crack, leading to significant oil or coolant leaks on top of the engine.
• Water Leaks (Hardtop and Doors) 🟡 Low — Extremely common across all years. Freedom Top panels and door seals are notorious for allowing water to leak into the cabin during rain.

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide for This Vehicle

When a used part is the smart pick: For the 2007-2011 42RLE transmission, a used shifter assembly from a low-mileage donor vehicle could be a cost-effective option if the internal shifter mechanism is confirmed to be the fault. A used wiring harness can also be viable if a specific section is damaged and a pigtail repair is not feasible, provided it is thoroughly inspected.

Donor-vehicle mileage cap: roughly under 80000 miles for the part to have meaningful remaining life.

What to inspect on the donor part:

• For wiring harnesses: Check for any signs of brittleness, melting, or previous repairs (splices). Ensure all connector locking tabs are intact.
• For shifter assemblies: Test the mechanical feel. It should move into each gear position with a positive click and without excessive play or looseness.
• Verify the donor vehicle was not from a region with heavy road salt use to minimize the risk of corrosion.

OEM-only on this vehicle (don't cheap out):

• Valve Body Conductor Plate (W5A580): While aftermarket options exist, the OEM/Bosch part is highly recommended for reliability. This is a labor-intensive job, and repeat failure due to a low-quality part is a significant risk.
• Transmission Connector Plug Adapter (13-pin): This part is inexpensive and critical. Only use a new OEM (Mopar) or reputable OE-supplier (e.g., URO Parts) part to ensure the O-rings are fresh and provide a proper seal.

Aftermarket brands forum-validated for this vehicle:

• Dorman: Offers a replacement Transmission Range Sensor for the 42RLE and a conductor plate for the W5A580 that are generally considered acceptable alternatives to OEM.
• Standard Motor Products (SMP): A reliable source for the 42RLE external range sensor.

Brands owners have reported issues with on this vehicle:

• No-name, unbranded conductor plates or sensors from online marketplaces. The risk of premature failure is very high, and the cost of labor to replace them again outweighs any initial savings.

Real Owner Stories

Aggregated from forums and TSBs cited above. Mileages and costs reflect what owners reported in those sources.

Related OBD-II Codes

• P0700 — A general transmission control system malfunction code that often appears alongside P0705 to alert the PCM that the TCM has detected a fault.
• P0306 — A cylinder 6 misfire code mentioned in relation to the 3.6L Pentastar left cylinder head failure, which may be present if the vehicle has multiple underlying issues.

Frequently Asked Questions