P0711 on 2015-2016 Ram ProMaster City: Transmission Temperature Sensor Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2015-2016 Ram PROMASTER CITY

The 2015-2016 Ram ProMaster City is equipped with a specific ZF-designed 9-speed automatic transmission, known as the 948TE. Unlike many older transmissions, the fluid temperature sensor in the 948TE is not a simple, externally accessible part. Instead, it is integrated into the internal wiring harness assembly, located under the valve body inside the transmission. This makes replacement more complex. Additionally, these transmissions are known for being sensitive to software and control module issues, as evidenced by Technical Service Bulletin #21-018-17 REV. A, which specifically targets the 2015-2016 ProMaster City and lists P0711 as a code resolved by a TCM software update.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Harsh, erratic, or delayed gear shifts
• Transmission may feel like it's slipping
• Vehicle may enter 'limp mode' (stuck in a single gear)
• Transmission overheating warning light may illuminate
• Abnormal torque converter clutch operation
• Noticeable burnt smell from the transmission fluid

Most Likely Causes

1. Transmission Control Module (TCM) Software Issue 🔴 High Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly Manufacturer TSBs for this vehicle (specifically 21-018-17 REV. A) list P0711 alongside numerous other transmission codes, with the solution being a TCM software update. Early versions of the 948TE software were known to be problematic and could misinterpret sensor data.
   How to confirm: A Ram dealership or a qualified shop with a factory-level scan tool (wiTECH) can check the current software calibration of the TCM against the latest available version and determine if an update is available per the TSBs.
   Typical fix: Update (reflash) the TCM to the latest software version. This must be done by a dealer or properly equipped independent shop. The procedure often includes performing a 'PROXI Configuration Alignment' and may require a 'Transmission Quick Learn' procedure afterward.
   Est. part cost: $0 (if under warranty) - $250
2. Faulty Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) Sensor 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly The sensor is part of a larger internal wiring harness assembly inside the transmission, which can fail over time. It's a common hardware failure point for this code, but software should be ruled out first.
   How to confirm: A technician can use a scan tool to monitor the live data from the TFT sensor. If the temperature reading is stuck, irrational (e.g., reads -40°F on a hot day), or doesn't increase as the vehicle warms up, the sensor or its circuit is likely faulty.
   Typical fix: Replace the internal transmission wiring harness which contains the integrated temperature sensor. This requires draining the fluid, dropping the transmission pan, and removing the valve body.
   Est. part cost: $150-$250
3. Low or Degraded Transmission Fluid 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly The 948TE transmission does not have a traditional dipstick, making fluid level checks less straightforward for the average owner. Low fluid can cause overheating, while old, contaminated fluid loses its ability to manage heat effectively, triggering a legitimate range/performance code.
   How to confirm: The fluid level must be checked via a specific procedure involving a scan tool to monitor temperature (typically warmed to 60°C / 140°F) and a special dipstick tool (P/N 10323A) at a check plug on the side of the transmission. The fluid condition (color and smell) should also be inspected; it should be pale green and not smell burnt.
   Typical fix: Perform a transmission fluid drain and fill using the correct Mopar ZF 8 & 9 Speed ATF (Part #68157995AB). If a leak is present, it must be repaired.
   Est. part cost: $100-$180 for fluid
4. Damaged Wiring or Connectors ⚪ Low Probability While less common than internal sensor failure, the external wiring harness leading to the transmission can still be damaged by road debris or corrosion.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the main transmission harness connector for corrosion, pushed-out pins, or damage. A multimeter can be used to check for a 5-volt reference and continuity at the connector pins corresponding to the TFT sensor.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wiring harness or clean/replace the connector.
   Est. part cost: $20-$100

Rare But Worth Checking

• Internal Transmission Mechanical Failure: → Shop Transmission Assembly If the transmission fluid is burnt and contains metal debris, it indicates a serious internal problem (like failing clutches) that is generating excessive heat. This would cause a legitimate high-temperature reading and requires a transmission rebuild or replacement.
• Faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM): → Shop Transmission Assembly In rare cases, if a software reflash doesn't work and the sensor/wiring are confirmed good, the TCM itself could have an internal hardware fault.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner and verify P0711 is the primary code. Note any other transmission-related codes, as they are very significant for this issue.
2. Check for applicable TSBs. Use the vehicle's VIN to check with a Ram dealer for any open campaigns or relevant TSBs like 21-018-17 REV. A. This should be a primary step.
3. With the scanner, access live data and monitor the Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) reading from a cold start. Compare it to the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) and Intake Air Temperature (IAT); they should be within 5-7°F of each other.
4. Drive the vehicle for at least 5-10 minutes. Observe the TFT reading. It should rise steadily. If it remains static, is erratic, or reads an illogical value (e.g., stuck at -40°F), the sensor or its circuit is suspect. The TCM may set the code if the temp doesn't change by more than 2°C (4°F) after 5 minutes.
5. If TSBs indicate a software update is needed and the sensor data is not completely illogical, the recommended next step is to perform the TCM reflash.
6. If a reflash is not available or does not solve the issue, proceed with physical checks. Raise the vehicle and inspect the main transmission wiring harness and connector for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
7. Perform a transmission fluid level and condition check following the specific procedure for the 948TE transmission. This requires a scan tool to monitor temperature and special tool 10323A to check the fluid at the level check port.
8. If the sensor/circuit is still suspected, the transmission pan must be removed for further testing. Check continuity of the sensor circuit from the internal harness.
9. If all else fails, the TCM itself may have a hardware fault.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• TCM Software Reflash — This is the most common fix documented in manufacturer TSBs for the P0711 code on this specific vehicle and its platform mates.
  Trusted brands: Mopar Dealer Service
  OEM price range: $150-$250
  Aftermarket price range: N/A
• Transmission Internal Wiring Harness (OEM #68380407AA) — The temperature sensor is integrated into this harness, which is the most common hardware point of failure for this code on the 948TE transmission.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $150-$250
  Aftermarket price range: N/A

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0887 — TCM Power Control Circuit High. Often cited in the same TSBs (21-018-17), suggesting a broader electrical or TCM software issue.
• P1DCCD — TCM Monitoring Processor Performance Multiple Clutches Locked Up. Also listed in the same TSBs, pointing towards a TCM software or internal fault.
• P1DAD — Input Shaft-Output Shaft Direction Correlation. Frequently grouped with P0711 in TSBs for TCM software updates.
• P0712 — Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor 'A' Circuit Low. This indicates a short to ground, whereas P0711 is a performance issue. They point to the same component but a different failure mode.
• P0713 — Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor 'A' Circuit High. This indicates an open circuit, whereas P0711 is a performance issue. They point to the same component but a different failure mode.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 21-018-17 REV. C
• 21-018-17 REV. A
• 21-039-15 REV. B
• 21-001-18

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• The 2015-2016 ProMaster City uses the ZF 948TE transmission, which had several Technical Service Bulletins issued for various shifting and control module issues in its early years.
• The lack of a conventional dipstick makes checking the transmission fluid level a more involved process, potentially leading to incorrect fluid levels if not done properly.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• TFT Sensor vs. IAT/ECT on Cold Start — expected: Within 5-7°F of each other. Failure: A significant difference in temperature readings before the engine has warmed up.
• TFT Sensor Circuit Voltage (at harness connector) — expected: ~5 Volts DC (reference voltage from PCM/TCM). Failure: No voltage or significantly lower voltage indicates a wiring or TCM issue.
• TFT Sensor Resistance — expected: Typically 200-500 ohms at 200°F (93°C). Resistance changes with temperature.. Failure: An open circuit (infinite resistance) or a value that doesn't change as the fluid warms up indicates a failed sensor.
• 948TE Transmission Fluid Level (using tool 10323A) — expected: 16mm - 23mm when fluid temperature is at 140°F (60°C). Failure: A level outside the specified range for a given temperature indicates an incorrect fluid level.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH: Quick Learn — Must be performed after the transmission is repaired/replaced, or when adaptation memory cells are cleared. It resets and learns clutch adaptive values.
• wiTECH: Valve Body Solenoid Learn — Required when the valve body or the entire Transmission Control Module (TCM) assembly has been replaced to match the module to the solenoids.
• wiTECH: PROXI Configuration Alignment — After replacing or reprogramming a module like the TCM, this procedure is necessary to ensure all control modules on the vehicle network are communicating correctly.
• wiTECH: Reset Adaptive Values — Used to clear the learned shift adaptation memory cells, often performed before a 'Quick Learn'.
• wiTECH: VIN Verification — A required routine after replacing the TCM to write the vehicle's VIN to the new module.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• TFT Sensor Location — Integrated into the internal pass-through wiring harness, located under the valve body inside the transmission oil pan.. This confirms the sensor is not externally accessible and requires significant labor to replace.
• Main Transmission Ground Strap — On the ProMaster platform, a primary braided ground strap runs from the transmission case to a bolt on the transmission mount, near the driver's side headlight area.. A poor ground connection at this point can cause intermittent and strange electrical issues, including corrupted sensor data that could trigger a P0711 code even if the sensor and its circuit are good.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 68266436AA, 68311677AA, 68348161AA → 68380407AA — Part has been revised and updated by the manufacturer.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2015-2016: No significant part or diagnostic differences have been identified between the 2015 and 2016 model years for this specific fault. The most critical variation is whether an individual vehicle has received the TCM software updates specified in TSBs like 21-018-17 REV. A.