P0707 on 2007-2016 Nissan Sentra: Transmission Range Sensor Fixes

What's Unique About the 2007-2016 Nissan Sentra

For the 2007-2016 Nissan Sentra, which is equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the P0707 code can be particularly concerning. The TCM relies heavily on the range sensor's signal to manage the CVT's operation. A faulty signal can lead to symptoms that mimic severe CVT failure, such as hesitation, erratic behavior, or a sudden loss of propulsion while driving. While Nissan has issued numerous TSBs and recalls for CVT judder and performance issues in this generation, none directly cite P0707. However, the sensor's failure can produce similar drivability complaints, making accurate diagnosis crucial to avoid unnecessarily replacing the expensive CVT assembly.

Generation note: The 2007-2016 range covers two Sentra generations: the B16 (2007-2012) and the B17 (2013-2019). The function and cause of failure for the P0707 code are largely the same across both generations, as they use similar CVT technology. However, the part numbers for the sensor differ. For the B17 (2013-2016), the part is OEM PN 31918-1XK0A. For the B16 (2007-2012), the equivalent part is the Park/Neutral Position Switch, OEM PN 31918-1XF00. For both generations, accessing the sensor is done from the top of the engine bay and requires removing the battery and battery tray to reach the sensor on the driver's side of the transmission casing.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Engine will not start (no-crank condition)
• Engine only starts in Neutral, but not in Park
• Gear position indicator on the instrument cluster is blank, incorrect, or doesn't update when shifting
• Erratic or harsh shifting
• Vehicle enters 'limp mode,' limiting engine power and gear selection
• Reverse lights do not turn on
• Delayed engagement when shifting into Drive or Reverse

Most Likely Causes

1. Faulty Transmission Range Sensor (Neutral Safety Switch) 🔴 High Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly The sensor is an electronic component subject to wear and tear from shifting, and can fail from internal shorts or moisture intrusion over time. It is a very common failure point on this platform.
   How to confirm: Test the sensor's voltage output with a multimeter while shifting through the gears. The voltage should change according to the gear selected. A reading below the manufacturer's specification (typically <0.5V) or no reading at all confirms a failed sensor. A scan tool can also read the live data from the sensor to confirm the low voltage reading.
   Typical fix: Replace the Transmission Range Sensor. This requires removing the battery and battery tray for access. The new sensor must be correctly aligned for the vehicle to start and shift properly. This usually involves aligning marks on the sensor with the transmission case while the shifter is in Neutral.
   Est. part cost: $40-$250
2. Damaged Wiring or Corroded Connector 🟡 Medium Probability The sensor's wiring harness is located in the engine bay and is exposed to heat, vibration, and moisture, which can lead to corrosion (green crust on pins), chafing, or broken wires, especially at the connector.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness and connector for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose pins. Wiggle the connector while monitoring live data on a scan tool to see if the signal changes. Perform a continuity test on the wires between the sensor and the TCM to check for opens or shorts.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wiring harness or clean the connector terminals with an electrical contact cleaner. If the damage is severe, the connector pigtail may need to be replaced.
   Est. part cost: $10-$50
3. Misadjusted Transmission Range Sensor ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly If the sensor has been previously replaced or the shift linkage has been serviced, it may not have been properly aligned. The sensor's position is critical for sending the correct signal. This is a common error during DIY replacement.
   How to confirm: With a scan tool, check if the gear position displayed matches the physical position of the gear selector. If not, the sensor may be misadjusted. The car may also fail to start in Park but start in Neutral if the alignment is slightly off.
   Typical fix: Loosen the sensor's mounting bolts and rotate it slightly until the correct alignment is achieved. This often involves aligning marks on the sensor with marks on the transmission case or shift lever while the transmission is in Neutral.
   Est. part cost: $0

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM): → Shop Transmission Assembly This is rare and should only be considered after the sensor and wiring have been thoroughly tested and confirmed to be good. A module failure can cause it to misinterpret a good signal from a working sensor.
• Damaged or Loose Shift Linkage: In some cases, a damaged or loose shift linkage cable can prevent the lever on the transmission from moving fully into position, which in turn prevents the sensor from accurately detecting the selected gear.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner and confirm that P0707 is the active code. Note any other transmission-related codes, such as P0705 or P0706.
2. Observe the gear position indicator on the instrument cluster. If it is blank, incorrect, or does not change when you move the shifter, this strongly points to the TRS or its circuit.
3. Check the vehicle's starting behavior. Try to start the engine in both Park and Neutral. If it starts in Neutral but not Park (or vice versa), this indicates a TRS or alignment issue.
4. Visually inspect the Transmission Range Sensor, its connector, and wiring harness. The sensor is located on the driver's side of the transmission case, under the battery and battery tray. Look for corrosion, loose connections, or damaged wires.
5. With the ignition on, use a scan tool to view live data for the Transmission Range Sensor voltage. A reading below 0.5 volts confirms the 'Circuit Low' condition.
6. If voltage is low, disconnect the sensor and check for the reference voltage from the TCM at the connector. If the reference voltage is present, the sensor is almost certainly faulty. If there is no reference voltage, the issue is in the wiring or the TCM itself.
7. If the sensor and wiring appear to be in good condition, check the adjustment of the sensor and the integrity of the shift linkage.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Transmission Range Sensor (Neutral Safety Switch) (OEM #31918-1XK0A) — This sensor is the most common cause of the P0707 code due to internal failure. This part number is used across many Nissan models including the Sentra, Versa, and Kicks.
  Trusted brands: Nissan (Genuine OEM), Hitachi, NGK/NTK, Duralast
  OEM price range: $150-$250
  Aftermarket price range: $40-$100

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0705 — P0705 is a general 'Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction' code. P0707 is a more specific version of P0705, indicating the signal is specifically low, whereas P0705 can be triggered by a variety of irrational signals.
• P0706 — Indicates the sensor's signal is 'out of range/performance,' often meaning the voltage is between valid gear positions. This points to a misadjusted or worn sensor, while P0707 points to a clear low/absent signal.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• NTB19-011 / NTB17-034H: Amends previous bulletins to add new diagnostic logic (storing DTC P17F0) for CVT judder on 2013-2017 Sentras. While not directly for P0707, the symptoms of judder and hesitation can be confused with a faulty range sensor.
• NTB20-035a: Provides a detailed repair overview for CVT judder on 2018-2019 Sentras, listing numerous DTCs (P0746, P0868, P17F0, etc.) that warrant investigatio

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• On the Nico Club forums, a user with a 2014 Sentra SV described a no-start condition with code P0707. The gear selector (P, R, N, D) on the dash would not illuminate. After replacing the neutral safety switch (TRS), the gear position indicator returned and the car started normally. The owner noted the most difficult part of the DIY job was removing the shift linkage from the sensor's shaft.
• Multiple owners report that symptoms can appear intermittently, especially after rain or in high humidity, suggesting moisture is getting into a failing sensor or a compromised connector.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Transmission Range Sensor 'A' Circuit Voltage (Live Data) — expected: A distinct voltage for each gear position (e.g., Park: ~3.1V, Reverse: ~2.7V, Neutral: ~2.3V).. Failure: Voltage is stuck below 0.5V regardless of gear position.
• TCM Ground Circuit Resistance — expected: Less than 0.1V (100mV) between the ground pin at the TRS connector and the negative battery terminal.. Failure: A reading higher than 0.1V indicates excessive resistance in the ground circuit that needs to be traced and repaired.
• CVT (RE0F10A/JF011E) Stepper Motor Winding Resistance — expected: Approximately 15 Ω between each phase (e.g., pins 1 and 2) and 30 Ω across the full winding (e.g., pins 1 and 3).. Failure: A reading of open (OL) or significantly different resistance indicates a faulty stepper motor, which is part of the valve body assembly.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Nissan CONSULT-III plus: WRITE IP CHARA – REPLACEMENT TCM — This function, found under TRANSMISSION > Work Support, is required after replacing the CVT assembly, valve body, or TCM to write the calibration data to the new module. Failure to do so can cause shifting issues even if the P0707 code is resolved.
• Nissan CONSULT-III plus: DATA MONITOR — To observe the live voltage from the Transmission Range Sensor as the gear selector is moved. This allows for real-time confirmation of the 'Circuit Low' condition reported by the P0707 code.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• M57 / M61 — M57 is on the left side of the dash; M61 is on the right end of the dash.. These are primary interior ground points. A 2009 Sentra wiring diagram shows the TCM (Transmission Control Module) is grounded through these points. A loose or corroded connection here can cause low voltage readings from transmission sensors.
• F9 / F16 — F9 is at the front of the engine compartment; F16 is on the right side of the engine compartment.. These are main engine bay ground points. The diagram for a 2009 Sentra shows the IPDM E/R (Intelligent Power Distribution Module Engine Room) and various transmission-related components use these grounds.
• TCM Ground Terminals — Terminals 5 and 42 on the TCM connector.. A 2009 Sentra ground distribution diagram explicitly lists these two pins as the ground inputs for the TCM. Verifying a solid ground at these specific pins is a key step if a grounding issue is suspected.
• Transmission Case Ground — A ground strap or wire bolted directly from the transmission housing to the vehicle's chassis, often near the thermostat housing or a main engine bracket.. This is the main ground for the entire transmission assembly. Corrosion or a loose connection at this point can cause a variety of electrical issues, including intermittent or persistent low voltage codes like P0707.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 31918-X420A, 31918-3XX0A → 31918-1XK0A — Part consolidation and potential design revision by Nissan.
• 31918-1XF00 → — This is the primary Park/Neutral Position Switch for the 2007-2012 (B16) generation.
  Heads up: This part is for the B16 generation and is not interchangeable with the B17 generation's 31918-1XK0A.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2007-2012 (B16 Generation): These models use a Park/Neutral Position Switch, OEM part number 31918-1XF00, as the primary component for this circuit.
• 2013-2016 (B17 Generation): These models use the updated Transmission Range Sensor, OEM part number 31918-1XK0A.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Other Known Issues on This Vehicle

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

• Premature CVT Failure / Judder 🔴 High — Very common across the B16 and especially B17 generations. Can occur at any mileage, but frequently reported between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Symptoms include shaking, hesitation, and loss of power. (Ref: Multiple TSBs issued, including NTB19-011 and NTB20-035a, which address CVT judder and add diagnostic codes like P17F0.)
• Faulty AC Compressor 🟠 Medium — Common failure item, particularly on the B16 (2007-2012) generation, often before 100,000 miles. The clutch on the compressor fails, resulting in hot air from the vents.
• Cracked Air Intake Hose 🟡 Low — The flexible rubber intake hose on the B16 (2007-2012) is prone to cracking over time, leading to unmetered air entering the engine. This can cause a rough idle, hesitation, and poor performance.
• Rapid Front Suspension Wear 🟠 Medium — Owners of the B16 generation (2007-2012) frequently report premature failure of control arm bushings, ball joints, and sway bar end links, leading to suspension noise and alignment problems.
• Throttle Body Failure 🟠 Medium — A known issue on the 2007-2012 Sentra, where the electronic throttle body can fail, causing loss of power, rough idle, and a Check Engine Light.
• Brake Master Cylinder Failure 🔴 High — Particularly noted on the 2013 model year, some owners report premature failure of the brake master cylinder, leading to a soft pedal that goes to the floor.

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide for This Vehicle

When a used part is the smart pick: A used part is generally not recommended for this repair. The Transmission Range Sensor is an electronic component with internal moving parts that wears out over time. The cost savings of a used part from a junkyard are minimal compared to the risk of premature failure and the labor required to install it. A used wiring harness pigtail can be a good option if only the connector is damaged.

Donor-vehicle mileage cap: roughly under 60000 miles for the part to have meaningful remaining life.

What to inspect on the donor part:

• Check for any cracks or damage to the plastic housing.
• Inspect the electrical connector pins for any signs of corrosion, moisture (green crust), or being bent/pushed out.
• Ensure the lever arm moves smoothly without binding.
• If possible, choose a donor vehicle from a dry, salt-free climate to minimize the risk of corrosion.

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

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) - Due to programming and VIN-locking, a new or professionally remanufactured and programmed OEM unit is required if the TCM is condemned.

Aftermarket brands forum-validated for this vehicle:

• Hitachi (often the original equipment manufacturer for Nissan)
• NGK/NTK
• Delphi
• Beck Arnley

Brands owners have reported issues with on this vehicle:

• Generic, unbranded 'white-box' parts from online marketplaces. These often have high failure rates and may not be properly calibrated, leading to persistent codes or shifting problems.

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. This is a general fault code for the same sensor. It is often set alongside P0707 as they both point to a failure in the TRS or its circuit.
• P0706 — Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Range/Performance. This code indicates an erratic or out-of-spec signal from the TRS, often caused by the same internal sensor failure or wiring issue that triggers P0707.
• P17F0 — CVT Judder. While not a direct cause, TSB NTB19-011 notes that symptoms of judder can be confused with a faulty range sensor. This code may be present when investigating general transmission performance issues.
• P0868 — Transmission Fluid Pressure Low. This is another common CVT-related code on this platform that can cause limp mode and shifting problems, symptoms which overlap with those of P0707.
• P0746 — Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance/Stuck Off. Mentioned in TSBs related to CVT issues, this code points to an internal transmission problem but can cause shifting symptoms that might be investigated alongside a P0707.

Frequently Asked Questions