P0713 on 2013 Ram 2500: Causes and Fixes for Transmission Temp Sensor High

What's Unique About the 2013-2013 Ram 2500

For the 2013 Ram 2500, particularly those with the common 68RFE automatic transmission, the transmission temperature sensor is not a simple, standalone part. It is integrated into the transmission solenoid pack (also called the valve body solenoid assembly) 🎬 See this walkthrough of common 68RFE valve body failures and fixes. located inside the transmission oil pan. This makes replacement more involved and costly than a simple screw-in sensor. Furthermore, Ram has issued multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that include P0713, suggesting 🎬 Watch: Understanding P0713 causes and how to fix the circuit. the fault can sometimes be corrected with a PCM software update rather than hardware replacement. The update often changes the fault from a one-trip to a two-trip fault, making it less sensitive to momentary glitches.

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
• Transmission overheating warning light may illuminate, even when cold
• Harsh, erratic, or delayed shifting
• Vehicle may enter "limp mode," limiting speed and getting stuck in 4th gear
• Poor fuel economy
• Torque converter clutch may not engage or disengage properly

Most Likely Causes

1. Failed Transmission Temperature Sensor / Solenoid Pack 🔴 High Probability → Shop Transmission Assembly The sensor is integrated into the solenoid pack, a complex electronic component submerged in hot transmission fluid, making it a common failure point over time. The entire solenoid pack assembly must be replaced even if only the sensor fails. The internal circuit board on these packs is also known to flex, causing various electrical faults.
   How to confirm: Use a scan tool to monitor live data for the transmission fluid temperature. If it shows an extremely high, fixed value (e.g., over 250°F or a default like -36°F when disconnected) even when the engine is cold, the sensor or its circuit is faulty. A healthy sensor's temperature reading should be within 5-7 degrees of the intake air temperature when the truck is cold.
   Typical fix: Replace the entire transmission solenoid pack, which is located inside the transmission oil pan. This often requires dropping the valve body as well.
   Est. part cost: $375-$615
2. Damaged Wiring or Connector 🟡 Medium Probability The main wiring harness to the transmission is exposed to engine and exhaust heat, road debris, and corrosion. Chafing against the chassis or engine components can cause an open circuit or a short to voltage, which triggers a P0713.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness leading to the round transmission connector on the driver's side of the 68RFE case. Check for any signs of melting, chafing, or corrosion on the pins. Test the (T54) Transmission Temperature Sensor Signal circuit for continuity and for a short to voltage using a digital multimeter.
   Typical fix: Repair or replace the damaged section of the wiring harness. Ensure the harness is properly secured away from heat sources or sharp edges.
   Est. part cost: $20-$200
3. Requires Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software Update ⚪ Low Probability → Shop Engine Control Module (ECM) Multiple TSBs (e.g., 18-091-16, 18-057-15 REV A) list P0713 among a group of codes that can be resolved by reflashing the PCM. The original software may be too sensitive. TSB 18-091-16 specifically changes the P0713 fault from a one-trip to a two-trip fault to reduce false MIL illumination.
   How to confirm: A Ram dealership or a qualified shop with a wiTECH scan tool can check if the vehicle's PCM calibration is up to date by referencing the TSBs.
   Typical fix: Update the PCM software to the latest version. This is a simple re-flash procedure.
   Est. part cost: $0-$200

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM): → Shop Engine Control Module (ECM) This is a rare cause. The PCM is the vehicle's main computer. It should only be considered after all other possibilities, such as the sensor and wiring, have been thoroughly tested and ruled out.
• Low or Burnt Transmission Fluid: → Shop Transmission Assembly While more likely to cause performance issues or overheating codes (like P0711), severely degraded or low fluid can contribute to erratic sensor behavior or actual overheating that triggers the code. Normal operating temperature for a 68RFE is often in the 160-185°F range.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner and confirm P0713 is present. Note any other codes, especially P0711, P0712, P0714, or P0869.
2. Using the scanner's live data function, view the Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) reading with the engine cold after sitting overnight. Compare it to the Intake Air Temperature (IAT). They should be within 5-7°F of each other. If the TFT reads an impossibly high temperature (e.g., over 250°F) or a default low value (e.g., -36°F), it confirms an electrical fault.
3. Check the transmission fluid level and condition. Ensure it is full and does not smell burnt. Dark or burnt fluid can indicate other internal problems.
4. Thoroughly inspect the main transmission wiring harness from the PCM down to the large, round connector on the driver's side of the transmission case. Look for areas where it might be melted against the exhaust, chafed on the frame, or damaged. Check the connector for corrosion, damage, or pushed-out pins.
5. If wiring appears intact, check with a dealer to see if any PCM software updates related to TSBs 18-091-16, 18-057-15, or 18-030-14 are available for your vehicle's VIN.
6. If no software update is available and wiring is good, the next step is to test the sensor itself. This requires dropping the transmission pan to access the solenoid pack.
7. Once the solenoid pack is accessible, you can test the resistance of the temperature sensor pins and check the internal harness for faults. Compare readings to the factory service manual specifications. A P0713 (high voltage) often corresponds to an open circuit (infinite resistance).
8. If the sensor tests bad, replace the entire solenoid pack. It is critical to verify the connector color (typically gray or white for this era) before ordering a replacement.
9. If all other steps fail, the PCM may be the issue, though this is very uncommon.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Transmission Solenoid Pack (OEM #68353383AB (or superseding part number like 68353383AC)) — On the 68RFE transmission, the temperature sensor is integrated into this assembly. A sensor failure requires replacing the entire pack. For 2011-2018 models, it's important to verify the main connector color (white or gray) before ordering.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Dorman, RevMax, SunCoast
  OEM price range: $450-$620
  Aftermarket price range: $375-$550
• Transmission Pan Gasket and Filter Kit (OEM #Pan Gasket: 68425659AA, Sump Filter: 5013470AE, Spin-on Filter: 5015267AD) — Required when dropping the transmission pan to access the solenoid pack. The pan gasket is reusable but often replaced. Both the sump filter and the external spin-on filter should always be replaced at the same time.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, ATP, Wix
  OEM price range: $80-$120
  Aftermarket price range: $40-$70
• ATF+4 Transmission Fluid (OEM #MS-9602) — The transmission fluid must be replaced after dropping the pan. The 68RFE requires Mopar ATF+4 specification fluid. A pan drop and filter change typically requires 7-9 quarts.

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0711 — Relates to Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance. Both codes point to a problem with the same sensor.
• P0712 — Relates to Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor 'A' Circuit Low. This indicates the opposite electrical fault (low voltage/short to ground) but involves the same component.
• P0714 — Relates to Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor 'A' Circuit Intermittent. This suggests the sensor signal is dropping in and out, pointing to a wiring or sensor issue.
• P0869 — Relates to Transmission Line Pressure High. The PCM uses temperature data to calculate line pressure; a false high temp reading can cause the PCM to command incorrect (high) line pressure as a protective measure.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 18-091-16: Addresses multiple DTCs including P0713, related to the electrical system. Involves a PCM software update to change fault sensitivity.
• 18-057-15 REV A: Addresses multiple DTCs including P0713, related to the powertrain and recommends a PCM software update.
• 18-030-14 REV. B: Also lists P0713 as one of many codes fixed by a PCM reflash for powertrain improvements.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A series of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) including #18-091-16, #18-057-15 REV A, and #18-030-14 REV. B were issued by the manufacturer for the 2013 Ram 2500. These bulletins address a group of diagnostic trouble codes, including P0713, that may be resolved by reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with updated software. Specifically, TSB 18-091-16 changes the logic for setting P0713 from a one-trip fault to a two-trip fault, making it less likely to trigger from a momentary glitch.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Transmission Temperature Sensor Voltage (at PCM) — expected: Below 3.76 volts.. Failure: Voltage is greater than 3.76 V for 2.2 seconds, or greater than 4.94 V for 0.45 seconds.
• Sensor Ground Circuit Resistance — expected: Less than 5.0 ohms.. Failure: Resistance is 5.0 ohms or more, indicating an open in the ground circuit.
• Resistance between Temp Sensor Signal and 5V Supply Circuits — expected: Greater than 100 k/ohms.. Failure: Resistance is 100 k/ohms or less, indicating a short between the signal and supply circuits.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH, Launch, Autel, Snap-on: Quick Learn — This procedure is mandatory after replacing the transmission solenoid pack or valve body. It resets and recalibrates the adaptive shift timing and clutch volume indexes (CVIs). Failure to perform this can lead to poor shift quality and premature transmission wear.
• wiTECH or equivalent dealer tool: Reprogram ECM/PCM — Used to apply software updates as specified in Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for P0713. This can resolve issues where the fault is triggered by overly sensitive software logic.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• T54 Transmission Temperature Sensor Signal Circuit — This circuit runs from the transmission solenoid assembly connector to the PCM. It can be tested at the PCM harness connector C2 (White), terminal No. 1.. An open or short-to-voltage on this specific wire is a primary cause of P0713. Testing voltage and continuity on this circuit is a key diagnostic step.
• PCM Connector C2 (White) — This is one of the main connectors at the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).. Terminal No. 1 within this connector is the pin for the TFT sensor signal, making it a critical test point for diagnosing a P0713 without dropping the transmission pan.
• Sensor Ground Circuit — Runs from the transmission solenoid assembly connector (terminal No. 3) to the PCM harness connector C1 (Black), terminal No. 4.. A high resistance or open on the ground side of the circuit can cause the signal voltage to float high, triggering a P0713 code.

OEM Part Supersession History

• Various PNs with Gray Connectors (e.g., 52120000AA) → Various PNs with White Connectors (e.g., 52119435AF, 68353383AB) — The white connector solenoid pack is an updated design.
  Heads up: The updated white connector solenoid pack is generally backward compatible and replaces the older gray connector units for 2007.5-2018 models. However, a gray connector pack cannot be used on a vehicle originally equipped with a white connector pack.