P0706 on 2018-2023 Chevrolet Traverse: Transmission Range Sensor Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2018-2023 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2018-2023 Traverse uses a fully electronic shifter in the center console. This shifter is known to have a common fault that causes a 'Shift to Park' message on the dash, which is addressed by GM TSB 19-NA-206. However, this specific issue typically sets a Body Control Module code (B000A), not the P0706 powertrain code. The cause is often a faulty park switch within the shifter assembly that fails to signal the BCM that the lever is in Park. While the symptoms can seem related (inability to shut off the vehicle), P0706 almost always points to a problem at the transmission itself—either the sensor mounted on it or the mechanical cable leading to it—rather than the electronic shifter assembly in the console.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Vehicle may not start, or only starts in Neutral
• Inability to shift out of Park
• Harsh or erratic shifting between gears
• Gear indicator on the dashboard is incorrect or blank
• Vehicle enters 'Limp Mode' (stuck in one gear)
• Reverse lights do not work
• Delayed gear engagement

Most Likely Causes

1. Worn or Misadjusted Shift Cable/Linkage 🔴 High Probability A documented case on a 2018 Traverse showed that wear and slack in the shift cable can prevent the transmission lever from moving fully, causing the range sensor to report an incorrect position. The plastic bushings on the cable ends are a common failure point.
   How to confirm: Disconnect the shift cable from the lever on the transmission. Manually move the transmission lever through the gears. If it moves easily and the gear positions can be selected without issue, the problem is likely the cable or its bushings. If the lever is still stiff or the problem persists, the issue is likely the sensor or internal to the transmission.
   Typical fix: Replace the transmission shift cable or just the failed bushing at the cable end. Bushing repair kits are available for a cheaper, quicker fix. 🎬 See this quick shift cable bushing replacement guide
   Est. part cost: $50-$120 for a full cable, $20-$30 for a bushing kit.
2. Faulty Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) 🔴 High Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly The sensor, also known as the Neutral Safety Switch or Manual Shift Detent Lever, is mounted externally on the transmission and is exposed to heat and the elements, which can lead to internal failure over time.
   How to confirm: Using a scan tool that can display live transmission data, monitor the sensor's output (PRNDL state) while moving the shifter. The reading should change cleanly for each gear position. If the readings are erratic, missing for certain gears, or show impossible combinations, the sensor is likely faulty.
   Typical fix: Replace the Transmission Range Sensor on the transmission housing. This often requires removing the battery and battery tray for access to the 🎬 Watch: How to replace a transmission range sensor top of the transmission.
   Est. part cost: $40-$150
3. Wiring or Connector Damage 🟡 Medium Probability The wiring harness to the sensor can be damaged by road debris, heat from the engine/exhaust, or corrosion at the connector pins, leading to a poor signal.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness leading to the Transmission Range Sensor for any signs of damage, melting, or corrosion. Unplug the connector and check for corroded or bent pins. Perform a continuity test on the wires between the sensor and the TCM if a wiring diagram is available.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wiring harness or clean/replace the connector.
   Est. part cost: $10-$50

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM): → Shop Transmission Assembly A faulty TCM is rare but possible. It can misinterpret a perfectly good sensor signal. This should only be considered after all other possibilities (sensor, wiring, linkage) have been definitively ruled out by a professional.
• Low or Contaminated Transmission Fluid: → Shop Transmission Assembly While less common for this specific code, extremely low or dirty transmission fluid can cause erratic shifting behavior and potentially trigger performance-related codes.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Scan for Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0706 is the primary code. Note any other codes, especially P0700 or P0705. A B000A code would point towards the separate 'Shift to Park' issue.
2. Check Live Data: Use a scan tool to monitor the live data from the Transmission Range Sensor. Observe the sensor's reported gear position (PRNDL state) as you move the shifter through P, R, N, D, and L. Note any dropouts, incorrect readings, or illogical states.
3. Inspect Shift Linkage: Visually inspect the shift cable and the lever on the side of the transmission where the cable attaches. Look for excessive play, binding, or a broken plastic bushing at the connection point.
4. Isolate the Fault: Disconnect the shift cable from the transmission lever. Try to start the vehicle in Park and Neutral by moving the lever by hand. If it starts and shifts correctly, the issue is the cable or its bushing. If the problem remains, the issue is with the sensor or its wiring.
5. Inspect Wiring: Visually inspect the wiring harness and connector at the Transmission Range Sensor for damage, corrosion, or loose connections. The sensor is located on top of the transmission, often under the battery tray.
6. Test the Sensor Circuit: If you have a multimeter and wiring diagram, test the sensor for proper voltage and ground signals at the connector. This can confirm if the sensor is faulty or if there's a wiring issue upstream.
7. Replace the Faulty Component: Based on the diagnosis, replace the faulty component. This is most commonly the shift cable bushing, the entire shift cable, or the Transmission Range Sensor itself.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Transmission Range Sensor (OEM #24295512) — This is the sensor that the P0706 code directly implicates. It is mounted on the 9T65 transmission and reads the gear position. It is also called a Manual Shift Detent Lever with Switch.
  Trusted brands: ACDelco (Genuine GM)
  OEM price range: $35-$60
  Aftermarket price range: $30-$50
• Transmission Shift Cable (OEM #84862512, 84496072) — A worn, stretched, or broken cable/bushing can prevent the transmission from fully engaging a gear, causing the range sensor to send an incorrect signal. This is a known mechanical cause for P0706.
  Trusted brands: GM Genuine, Dorman
  OEM price range: $70-$120
  Aftermarket price range: $50-$80
• Shifter Jumper Harness (For 'Shift to Park' Misdiagnosis) (OEM #84733196) — This part is the fix for the common 'Shift to Park' message (TSB 19-NA-206), which is often confused with a P0706 fault. This part will NOT fix a true P0706 code but is essential to mention as a common misdiagnosis.
  Trusted brands: GM Genuine
  OEM price range: $15-$40
  Aftermarket price range: $10-$25

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0700 — P0700 is a generic code that means the Transmission Control Module (TCM) has stored a fault. It acts as a general alert and will almost always be present alongside a more specific transmission code like P0706.
• P0705 — This code indicates a malfunction in the Transmission Range Sensor circuit (PRNDL input). It is very similar to P0706 and can be caused by the same faulty sensor or wiring issues.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 19-NA-206: Addresses the 'Intermittent Shift to Park Message' by installing a jumper harness (P/N 84733196) in the center console shifter. This TSB is for code B000A, not P0706.
• 18-NA-091: Pertains to a transmission shudder condition on the 9T65 transmission, fixed by a fluid flush and TCM reprogram. While not directly related to P0706, it is a common transmission issue for this platform.
• 20-NA-136: Provides diagnostic tips for low-mileage 9T65 transmission issues and outlines the repair vs. replacement strategy.
• 21-NA-149: A manufacturer service bulletin noted in NHTSA records that addresses diagnostic trouble codes including P0706 and P0700.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A widespread issue on this platform is the 'Shift to Park' message appearing on the dash even when the vehicle is in Park. This is caused by a faulty microswitch in the center console shifter and is addressed by TSB 19-NA-206. It is the most common source of confusion when diagnosing shift-related problems on this vehicle, but it sets code B000A, not P0706.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Transmission Internal Mode Switch (IMS) Duty Cycle on 9T50 Transmission — expected: Park: 12-18% (Range Sensor 1), 82-88% (Range Sensor 2); Reverse: 41-47% (RS1), 53-59% (RS2); Neutral: 55-61% (RS1), 39-45% (RS2); Drive: 69-75% (RS1), 24-30% (RS2); Low: 82-88% (RS1), 12-18% (RS2).. Failure: Readings outside of these percentages for a given gear selection indicate a faulty IMS or adjustment issue.
• Transmission Fluid Pressure (9T65) — expected: Greater than 345 kPa (50 psi) at idle.. Failure: Pressure below 50 psi indicates a potential internal hydraulic issue which should be investigated before condemning the range sensor.

Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking

• P187E: Transmission Park Valve Stuck Off. This is an ETRS (Electronic Transmission Range Select) system fault that can occur on 9TXX transmissions. (see via A professional scan tool like the GM GDS2 that can read transmission-specific codes.)
• P18AA through P18AD: These codes relate to the Transmission Range Mode Control Valve Position Switches being stuck on or off. (see via A professional scan tool like the GM GDS2.)

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• GDS2 (GM Global Diagnostic System 2): Live Data Monitoring for Transmission Range Sensor — This is the primary method to confirm a P0706. A technician should monitor the 'Transmission Range' or 'IMS' parameter while moving the shift lever. The display must match the selected gear instantly and without flickering between states. Any illogical reading (e.g., showing 'Drive' while in 'Reverse') confirms a fault in the sensor, linkage, or wiring.
• GDS2 (GM Global Diagnostic System 2): Transmission Fluid Pressure Data — As per TSB 20-NA-136, checking the transmission fluid pressure is a key diagnostic step for low-mileage 9T65 issues. This helps rule out a hydraulic problem before focusing on electronic sensors.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• G101 — Located at the front left of the engine, on the lower block.. This ground serves the Engine Control Module (ECM) and the Transmission Control Module (TCM). A poor connection at G101 can cause a variety of communication and sensor-related codes, including P0706, due to incorrect voltage references.
• Transmission Range Sensor Connector — On top of the transmission, under the battery and battery tray.. This is the primary connection point for the sensor. It is exposed to heat and vibration, making it a potential failure point for corrosion or loose pins. Visually inspecting this connector is a critical step.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 24280480, 24285863 → 24295512 — Standard part evolution for improved durability or manufacturing efficiency. The newer part is the correct service replacement.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2022-2023: The Traverse received a mid-cycle refresh for the 2022 model year, which included updated exterior styling and interior technology. However, the powertrain, including the 3.6L V6 engine and 9T65 9-speed automatic transmission, remained unchanged. Therefore, the causes and fixes for a P0706 code are identical across the entire 2018-2023 range.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Other Known Issues on This Vehicle

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

• Transmission Shudder (TCC Shudder) 🟠 Medium → Shop Transmission Assembly — Common issue, particularly at lower mileages. Can feel like driving over rumble strips at slow speeds with light throttle. (Ref: TSB 18-NA-091 suggests a TCM reprogram and transmission fluid flush with DEXRON VI to resolve.)
• Start-Stop System Failure 🟠 Medium — Owners report the engine shutting off at a stop but failing to restart automatically. Often caused by a weak or failing primary battery, as the system is sensitive to voltage.
• 'Shift to Park' Message 🟡 Low — Extremely common. A message appears on the dash after shifting to Park, preventing the vehicle from shutting off. This is a shifter microswitch issue, not a transmission problem. (Ref: TSB 19-NA-206 provides the fix, which involves installing a jumper harness (P/N 84733196).)
• Start/Stop Accumulator Oil Leak 🔴 High — Affects certain 2018-2020 models. Missing bolts on the accumulator can cause a transmission fluid leak, leading to loss of propulsion or fire risk. (Ref: Recall N202313440. Dealers will inspect and replace the accumulator if bolts are missing.)
• Electrical System Glitches 🟡 Low — General complaints include infotainment screen freezing, phantom sensor alerts, and other minor electrical bugs.

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide for This Vehicle

When a used part is the smart pick: For this repair, using used parts is generally not recommended. The primary failure items are a low-cost electronic sensor and a mechanical cable with plastic bushings that wear out. The cost savings of a used part are minimal and not worth the risk of receiving a part with similar wear or an unknown history.

Donor-vehicle mileage cap: roughly under 30000 miles for the part to have meaningful remaining life.

What to inspect on the donor part:

• For a shift cable, check for any fraying on the cable itself and the integrity of the plastic end-bushings. They should be firm and not cracked or crumbling.
• For a range sensor, there are no reliable visual cues. It's an electronic part where failure is often internal.

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

• Transmission Range Sensor (TRS)

Aftermarket brands forum-validated for this vehicle:

• ACDelco (for OEM sensor)
• Dorman (for shift cable and bushing kits)

Brands owners have reported issues with on this vehicle:

• Unknown, no-name electronic sensors from online marketplaces. The risk of a defective or out-of-spec part is high and can lead to significant diagnostic frustration.

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 accompanies P0706.
• P0705 — Transmission Range Sensor Circuit malfunction; a direct companion code to P0706 often found during the same diagnostic scan.
• B000A — The specific code triggered by the 'Shift to Park' microswitch failure, which is frequently confused with P0706 range sensor issues.

Frequently Asked Questions