P0706 on 2003-2011 Honda Element: Transmission Range Sensor Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2003-2011 Honda Element

The Honda Element has one generation, but it uses two different automatic transmissions: a 4-speed from 2003-2006 and a 5-speed from 2007-2011. This distinction is critical as the transmission range sensor part number differs between them. A hallmark symptom on the Element is a flashing 'D' (Drive) indicator light on the instrument cluster. Owner forums strongly caution against using aftermarket sensors, as they are a frequent source of repeat failures, making the use of a genuine Honda part highly recommended for a lasting repair. The issue is also extremely common on its direct platform mate, the Honda CR-V.

Generation note: While the Honda Element is a single generation, this range covers two different automatic transmissions. 2003-2006 models use a 4-speed automatic, while 2007-2011 models use a 5-speed automatic. The transmission range sensor is different for each, so verifying the correct part for your specific year is essential. The later part number (28900-RPC-013) has superseded the earlier one for many applications.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Flashing 'D' (Drive) indicator light on the dashboard
• Check Engine Light is on
• Harsh or delayed gear engagement
• Transmission may get stuck in one gear (limp mode)
• Vehicle may not start in Park, but may start in Neutral
• Incorrect or all gear positions displayed on the dash simultaneously
• Inability to shift out of Park

Most Likely Causes

1. Faulty Transmission Range Sensor (Neutral Safety Switch) 🔴 High Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly The sensor is an electronic component with moving internal contacts, exposed to heat and vibration on the transmission case. Over time, internal wear, water intrusion, or contamination can cause erratic signals. Hondas of this era are known to be sensitive to the electronic signals from these sensors.
   How to confirm: After confirming wiring is intact, test the sensor's output with a multimeter while shifting through the gears. The voltage or resistance should change smoothly and match the specifications in the service manual for each gear position. A scan tool can also monitor the sensor's output data in real-time.
   Typical fix: Replace the transmission range sensor. It is highly recommended to use a genuine OEM Honda part to avoid compatibility issues and premature failure.
   Est. part cost: $150-$250
2. Damaged Wiring or Connector 🟡 Medium Probability The wiring harness to the sensor, particularly the short jumper harness between the main harness and the sensor, is located on the transmission and can become brittle from heat. It is susceptible to strain and damage, especially if other work like motor mount replacement has been performed, which allows the engine/transmission to move excessively.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness and connector for any signs of corrosion, frayed wires, or loose pins. Wiggle the harness while monitoring sensor data on a scan tool. A common failure point is a wire breaking right at the connector pin, which may require removing the pin to inspect.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wire or replace the connector pigtail. In a well-documented case on Reddit, an owner fixed the issue by soldering a wire that had broken off its pin inside the jumper harness connector.
   Est. part cost: $10-$50
3. Misadjusted Transmission Range Sensor ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly This typically only occurs after a replacement has been attempted. The sensor has slotted mounting holes and must be 'clocked' or aligned correctly on the transmission's shift shaft for it to send the correct signals.
   How to confirm: Check the alignment marks on the sensor and the transmission body. The standard procedure is to place the transmission in Neutral, then align the line on the sensor body with the corresponding line on the shift shaft lever.
   Typical fix: Loosen the sensor's mounting bolts and rotate it until the alignment marks are correctly positioned in Neutral, then retighten the bolts to spec.
   Est. part cost: $0
4. Low or Dirty Transmission Fluid ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly While not a direct cause of an electrical fault code, very low or contaminated fluid can cause erratic transmission behavior or valve body issues that may indirectly trigger range/performance codes.
   How to confirm: Check the transmission fluid level and condition using the dipstick. The fluid should be at the correct level and red/pink in color, not brown or black, and should not smell burnt.
   Typical fix: Perform a transmission fluid drain and fill using the correct Honda ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid). A full flush is generally not recommended by Honda.
   Est. part cost: $40-$80

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM): This is very rare. The PCM is the last item to suspect after the sensor and its entire circuit have been thoroughly tested and confirmed to be in perfect working order.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Read the trouble codes with an OBD-II scanner. Note if P0706 is accompanied by P0705 or any other codes.
2. Check the level and condition of the automatic transmission fluid. Ensure it is clean, full, and uses the correct Honda-specific fluid.
3. Visually inspect the transmission range sensor, its electrical connector, and especially the short jumper harness for any obvious signs of damage, corrosion, heat stress, or loose connections.
4. Test for basic functionality. With the key on, engine off, shift the gear selector through all positions (P, R, N, D, etc.) and verify that the correct gear is illuminated on the instrument panel. Note if it fails to start in Park but starts in Neutral.
5. Test the sensor's circuit. Using a multimeter and service manual, back-probe the sensor's connector to check for correct voltage signals at each gear position. An inconsistent or out-of-spec reading points to a faulty sensor.
6. If the sensor signal is still erratic, carefully inspect the jumper harness by wiggling wires at both ends. A wire may be broken internally or at the connector pin, a common failure point after engine work or motor mount failure.
7. If a new sensor is installed, ensure it is properly aligned. The standard procedure is to put the transmission in Neutral and align the marks on the sensor body and shift lever before tightening the bolts.
8. If the sensor, wiring, and alignment are all confirmed to be good, the issue may be with the PCM, which requires advanced diagnostics.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Transmission Range Sensor (Neutral Safety Switch) (OEM #28900-RPC-013) — This is the most common failure point for code P0706 on models with the 5-speed automatic transmission (2007-2011). This part number is the current OEM replacement and supersedes several older part numbers, including 28900-PPV-013.
  Trusted brands: Honda (OEM)
  OEM price range: $170-$250
  Aftermarket price range: $50-$120
• Transmission Range Sensor (Neutral Safety Switch) (OEM #28900-PPV-013) — This was the original sensor for the 2003-2006 models with the 4-speed automatic transmission. While it is still sold, it has been largely superseded by 28900-RPC-013, which fits a wide range of Honda vehicles. It is critical to verify the correct part for the specific transmission.
  Trusted brands: Honda (OEM)
  OEM price range: $170-$250
  Aftermarket price range: $50-$120

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0705 — P0705 indicates a general malfunction in the transmission range sensor circuit, while P0706 points specifically to a range/performance problem. They often appear together as they relate to the same component and underlying fault.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A flashing 'D' light on the dashboard is a very common indicator of this specific code on the Honda Element.
• Using aftermarket (non-OEM) transmission range sensors is a frequent cause of the repair failing, with the P0706 code returning shortly after replacement.
• The short wiring harness between the main vehicle harness and the sensor can become brittle and fail, especially after the engine/transmission has been moved during other repairs like motor mount replacement. A wire often breaks right at the connector pin.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Live data voltage from Transmission Range Sensor via scan tool (Key On, Engine Off) — expected: Park ≈ 0V, Reverse ≈ 5V, Neutral ≈ 2.5V, Drive ≈ 4V. Deviations > ±0.5V are suspect.. Failure: Voltage does not change when shifting, is stuck at one value, or is outside the expected range for a selected gear.
• Continuity check of ground wires at PCM connector — expected: Continuity to body ground should be present.. Failure: No continuity (open circuit) indicates a broken ground wire or poor ground connection at G101.
• Voltage at PCM connector C20 (D position signal) to ground (A23/A24) — expected: Battery voltage when shifter is in Drive.. Failure: No voltage indicates an open in the wire between the PCM and the transmission range switch.
• Voltage at PCM connector C10 (R position signal) to ground (A23/A24) — expected: Battery voltage when shifter is in Reverse.. Failure: No voltage indicates an open in the wire between the PCM and the transmission range switch.

Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking

• 6-2: This is the Honda-specific flash code indicated by the 'D' light, corresponding to the generic OBD-II code P0706. The '6' is indicated by long blinks and the '2' by short blinks when using the SCS jumper method. (see via Connect the Honda HDS to the DLC and select SCS mode, or use the older method of jumping the SCS service connector.)

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Honda HDS (Honda Diagnostic System): Data List > Transmission > Range Sensor Position — This allows for real-time monitoring of the gear position being reported by the sensor to the PCM. It is the primary method for confirming if the sensor is sending illogical data.
• Honda HDS (Honda Diagnostic System): Clear DTCs / PCM Reset — After a repair (sensor replacement, wiring fix), the PCM must be reset to clear the stored code and exit any limp-home mode. This can also be done by pulling the appropriate fuse but HDS is the factory method.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• G101 — Located on the left rear of the engine.. This is a primary ground point for the engine and transmission control systems. A corroded or loose G101 can cause erratic sensor readings and trigger various codes, including P0706.
• G102 — Located on the rear of the engine.. Another critical engine ground. Verifying the integrity of all engine grounds is essential when diagnosing elusive electronic faults.
• PCM Connectors A, C — Behind the glove box, mounted to the vehicle frame.. These connectors are the termination point for the transmission range sensor signals. Back-probing these connectors (e.g., C10, C12, C20) is the definitive way to test the entire circuit from the sensor to the computer.
• Jumper Harness Connector — A short (~1 foot) harness between the main engine harness and the transmission range sensor itself, located below the air filter housing.. This is a known high-failure point. Wires can break internally or right at the pins inside the connector due to engine movement and heat, leading to a P0706 code even with a new sensor.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Reddit user 'modessitt' on r/HondaElement (Honda Element (year not specified)) — Check Engine Light with code P0706 appeared after replacing all four motor mounts.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Replaced the transmission range sensor with an aftermarket part from AutoZone., Replaced the aftermarket sensor with a genuine OEM Honda sensor.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The user inspected the short jumper harness between the main harness and the sensor. While wiggling the wires, one broke off from its pin in the connector. The final fix was pulling the pin from the connector, re-soldering the broken wire, and reinstalling the pin. The P0706 code was cleared and did not return. Cruise control also started working again.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 28900-PPV-013 → 28900-RPC-013 — Part consolidation and design update by Honda.
  Heads up: 28900-PPV-013 was for the earlier 4-speed automatic (2003-2006). 28900-RPC-013 is for the later 5-speed (2007-2011) but is listed as a replacement for the older part number in many Honda parts catalogs, suggesting it is backward compatible. Always confirm fitment with VIN.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2003-2006: These models used a 4-speed automatic transmission. The original range sensor was part number 28900-PPV-013.
• 2007-2011: These models used a 5-speed automatic transmission. The range sensor is part number 28900-RPC-013.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide for This Vehicle

When a used part is the smart pick: A used OEM jumper harness from a low-mileage donor vehicle is a viable option if yours is damaged, as it is a simple wiring component. A used PCM could be considered as a last resort if confirmed faulty, but it may require dealer programming.

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

What to inspect on the donor part:

• For a jumper harness, inspect for any signs of brittleness, cracking, or previous repairs.
• Ensure connectors are not corroded and that all locking tabs are intact.
• Check that the donor vehicle is from a dry, salt-free climate if possible to minimize corrosion risk.

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

• Transmission Range Sensor (Neutral Safety Switch)

Brands owners have reported issues with on this vehicle:

• All non-OEM brands for the Transmission Range Sensor. Forum consensus is extremely strong that aftermarket sensors for this specific part on this vehicle have a very high failure rate, often failing immediately or within a few weeks, leading to a repeat of the P0706 code.

Real Owner Stories

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

Related OBD-II Codes

• P0705 — This code for 'Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction' is explicitly mentioned as a potential companion code. It points to a general fault in the same sensor circuit that causes P0706.
• P0707 — Indicates 'Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Low'. This can be caused by a short to ground in the wiring or an internal sensor failure, which are the same types of electrical faults that can trigger a P0706 performance code.
• P0708 — Indicates 'Transmission Range Sensor Circuit High'. This points to a short to power or an open circuit, sharing the root cause of damaged wiring or a faulty sensor with P0706.
• P0709 — Indicates 'Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Intermittent'. This code is often caused by a damaged wire, loose connection, or failing internal contacts in the sensor—the primary causes of P0706 on the Honda Element.

Frequently Asked Questions