P0706 on 2017 Kia Sportage: Causes and Fixes for Transmission Range Sensor Issues

What's Unique About the 2017-2017 Kia Sportage

For the 2017 Kia Sportage (QL generation), this code is frequently linked to a known issue with the original inhibitor switch. Kia acknowledged this by issuing Technical Service Bulletin SA317A (also listed as TSB TRA072A), a service action to replace the faulty switch on a range of 2017 models, including the Sportage. This service action specifically targets vehicles produced from June 7, 2016, through March 6, 2017. This means that compared to other vehicles where P0706 might be caused by wiring or other issues, a defective switch is a very high-probability cause on this specific vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Vehicle will not start, or only starts in Neutral but not Park.
• Erratic or harsh shifting between gears.
• Gear position indicator on the dashboard is incorrect, does not light up, or all positions light up at once.
• Vehicle enters 'limp mode,' limiting engine power and speed.
• Reverse lights may not work.
• Slight engine stumble when shifting into Park after a long drive.
• A 'Key OFF' message does not appear after shifting to Park and pressing the Start/Stop button.

Most Likely Causes

1. Faulty Inhibitor Switch (Transmission Range Sensor) 🔴 High Probability → Shop Transmission Park Inhibitor Switch Kia issued a service action (SA317A) to replace this specific part on 2017 Sportage models (produced June 7, 2016 - March 6, 2017) due to a high failure rate. The original switches were prone to sending incorrect signals, especially when hot.
   How to confirm: Check the vehicle's VIN against Kia's Service Action SA317A. A technician can also test the sensor's voltage output at each gear position; incorrect or inconsistent readings confirm a bad sensor. A scan tool may show all gear indicators lit simultaneously or an incorrect gear position in the live data stream.
   Typical fix: Replace the inhibitor switch with a new, updated part. The switch is located on top of the transmission and requires removing the battery and battery tray for access. The new switch must be properly aligned in the Neutral position before tightening.
   Est. part cost: $80-$150
2. Damaged Wiring or Corroded Connector 🟡 Medium Probability The sensor and its wiring are located on the outside of the transmission, exposing them to moisture, road salt, and debris, which can lead to corrosion or damage over time.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness and connector for the inhibitor switch. Look for green/white corrosion, frayed wires, or loose pins. Test for continuity and voltage at the connector with a multimeter to ensure the signal is reaching the PCM/TCM.
   Typical fix: Clean the connector terminals with an electrical contact cleaner and apply dielectric grease. If wiring is damaged, repair or replace the affected section of the harness.
   Est. part cost: $10-$50
3. Misadjusted Inhibitor Switch or Shifter Cable ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Transmission Park Inhibitor Switch
   How to confirm: If the switch or transmission has been recently serviced, it may have been installed incorrectly. Check if the gear indicated on the dash matches the physical gear selection. A diagnostic scan tool can show the raw data from the sensor to see if it aligns with the expected values for each gear. An alignment pin or drill bit can be used to verify physical alignment in the Neutral position.
   Typical fix: Loosen the inhibitor switch mounting bolts and rotate it until the alignment marks are correct for the Neutral position, then retighten. Adjust the shifter cable if necessary.
   Est. part cost: $0

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Transmission Control Module (TCM): → Shop Transmission Assembly This is extremely rare. The PCM/TCM should only be considered after all other possibilities (sensor, wiring, adjustment) have been exhaustively ruled out. One diagnostic case on a related Hyundai platform showed a P0706 where a faulty PCM was the ultimate fix after a new sensor and wiring checks failed to resolve the issue. It is the most expensive and least likely cause.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Scan the vehicle for trouble codes. Confirm if P0706 is present and if there are any other related codes like P0705.
2. Check for any open recalls or Technical Service Bulletins. Specifically, check if Service Action SA317A applies to your vehicle's VIN and if it has been completed.
3. Visually inspect the inhibitor switch, its connector, and the wiring harness. Look for any signs of corrosion, damage, or loose connections. The switch is located on top of the transmission, under the battery and tray.
4. With the ignition on and engine off, use a scan tool to monitor the live data from the transmission range sensor. Shift through all gears (P, R, N, D) and verify that the computer is reading the correct gear position for each selection.
5. If the scan tool data is erratic or incorrect, test the sensor's output signal directly. Using a multimeter, back-probe the signal wire at the sensor connector and check for the correct voltage changes as the gear lever is moved, comparing readings to the service manual specifications.
6. If the sensor and wiring test good, check the adjustment of the shifter cable and the physical alignment of the inhibitor switch itself. This can be done by placing the shifter in Neutral and checking if an alignment pin can be inserted through the switch and lever.
7. If the sensor is confirmed to be faulty, replace it. After replacement, ensure the new switch is correctly aligned before tightening.
8. Clear the codes and perform a road test to ensure the issue is resolved. Some vehicles may require an adaptive values reset using a capable scan tool.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Inhibitor Switch (Transmission Range Sensor) (OEM #42700-3B700) — This is the part identified as faulty in Kia's own service action (SA317A) for the 2017 Sportage. It is the most common failure point for this code. Note that some parts databases indicate this number is superseded by 42700-26700, so it's critical to verify with a dealer using the VIN.
  Trusted brands: Kia (OEM), Hyundai (OEM), Standard Motor Products, Dorman
  OEM price range: $100-$150
  Aftermarket price range: $70-$120

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0705 — P0705 indicates a general malfunction in the Transmission Range Sensor circuit. P0706 is more specific, indicating a performance or range issue. They often appear together as they both point to the same component. Kia's TSB SA317A explicitly lists P0705 as a primary symptom.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• SA317A / TSB TRA 072A (Rev 1, R2): 'SERVICE ACTION: INHIBITOR SWITCH REPLACEMENT' - This document details the issue with the inhibitor switch on several 2017 Kia models, including the Sportage, and provides the procedure for replacement. 🎬 See how to replace the range sensor It covers symptoms like MIL on with P0705, no-start, harsh shifting, and EPB/Hold lights illuminating.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Kia issued Service Action SA317A in December 2017 for 2017 Sportage models (produced June 7, 2016, through March 6, 2017) to replace the inhibitor switch due to concerns of intermittent no-start, erratic shifting, and MIL illumination with DTC P0705.
• A Reddit user with a 2017 Sportage described intermittent long-crank/no-start issues, particularly in warm weather, which another user suggested could be the inhibitor switch.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Inhibitor Switch Power Supply Voltage — expected: Battery Voltage (~12V). Failure: 0V or significantly low voltage points to a problem with the fuse or wiring leading to the switch.
• Inhibitor Switch Signal Voltage (Multi-Signal Type) — expected: When a specific gear is selected, its corresponding signal pin should show ~12V while the other signal pins show 0V. For example, in Drive, the 'D' signal pin has 12V and the 'P', 'R', 'N' pins have 0V.. Failure: Voltage appearing on multiple signal pins at once, no voltage on any signal pin, or voltage that doesn't match the selected gear indicates a faulty switch.
• Inhibitor Switch Continuity Test (for start signal) — expected: Using a multimeter in continuity or Ohms mode, there should be continuity (near 0 ohms) between the start signal terminals only when the shifter is in Park or Neutral.. Failure: No continuity in Park or Neutral, or having continuity in Reverse or Drive, indicates a failed switch.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Kia GDS (Global Diagnostic System) or equivalent advanced scanner: Data Analysis -> A/T -> Shift Lever Switch — This function provides a live data stream of the gear position as seen by the Transmission Control Module (TCM). It is the most effective way to confirm if the computer's reading matches the physical gear selection and to spot intermittent or incorrect signals from the switch as you move the shifter.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Kia-Forums user (2017 Kia Sportage) — Check engine light on with code P0706, car would not start.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Initial diagnosis pointed to the inhibitor switch.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The user confirmed that replacing the inhibitor switch (neutral safety switch) resolved the no-start condition and cleared the P0706 code. The repair was covered under the Kia Service Campaign for this issue.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 42700-3B700 → 42700-26700 — The original part 42700-3B700 was identified in Service Action SA317A as being prone to failure. The updated part 42700-26700 is the replacement.
• 42700-3B700QQK → 42700-26700 — The 'QQK' suffix denotes a part supplied for a service campaign. This is the same physical part as 42700-3B700 and is also replaced by 42700-26700 for regular service.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Other Known Issues on This Vehicle

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

• Theta II GDI Engine Failure 🔴 High — Widespread across multiple model years, including 2017. Failures can occur at various mileages. The 2.4L GDI engine is particularly notorious, with hundreds of NHTSA complaints for engine problems. A class-action lawsuit resulted in a lifetime warranty and free engine replacements for certain vehicles/conditions. (Ref: Multiple recalls (e.g., 17V-224, 18V-907) and a major class-action settlement address this. Kia also released a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software update to help detect impending failure.)
• Excessive Oil Consumption 🟠 Medium — Often a precursor to the catastrophic engine failure, but can also be a standalone issue. Owners report needing to add oil frequently between changes. (Ref: Related to the main engine defect recalls and settlement. The KSDS update is a required first step for warranty claims.)
• Transmission and Gearbox Problems 🟠 Medium → Shop Transmission Assembly — Owners have reported issues beyond the P0706 code, including rough shifting, hesitation, and complete transmission failure. These can be caused by software glitches or internal component failure like a faulty torque converter. (Ref: Various TSBs exist for transmission software updates (e.g., TRA102 for IVT models, not directly applicable here but shows a pattern) and specific component replacements.)
• Electrical System Glitches 🟡 Low — NHTSA complaints include malfunctioning infotainment screens, erratic dashboard lights, and power window failures.

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide for This Vehicle

When a used part is the smart pick: A used part is NOT recommended for this repair. The original inhibitor switch is a known high-failure item with a specific service campaign (SA317A) to replace it. A used part from a donor vehicle is highly likely to be the same faulty original design and may fail soon after installation.

What to inspect on the donor part:

• Not applicable as a used part is not advised.

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

• Inhibitor Switch (Transmission Range Sensor)

Aftermarket brands forum-validated for this vehicle:

• Standard Motor Products (SMP) is a well-regarded aftermarket manufacturer often used by professional shops as a reliable alternative to OEM.

Brands owners have reported issues with on this vehicle:

• Unbranded, low-cost parts from online marketplaces should be avoided, as the quality and longevity are questionable for this critical safety component.

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 — Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction; specifically mentioned in TSB TRA 072A and SA317A as appearing alongside or instead of P0706 for the same faulty inhibitor switch.
• P17V-224 — While a recall number rather than a P-code, it is a related engine-level fault code/action for the Theta II GDI engine often found in the same vehicle.
• P18V-907 — Related recall for engine defects that may be present on the same 2017 Sportage models experiencing transmission sensor issues.

Frequently Asked Questions