P0700: Transmission Control System Malfunction
Quick Answer
Not safe to drive
P0700 is an informational code telling you the transmission control module has detected a fault and stored its own specific trouble code. It does not pinpoint the exact problem but signals that a transmission-specific code exists. On many cars a generic OBD2 reader shows that code alongside P0700; on others it is stored only in the transmission module and needs a reader or manufacturer-level software that talks to that module.
- Severity
- High · Transmission
- Estimated repair cost
- From €130 to €1500+, varies by vehicle
Scan your own car in about 60 seconds: see whether P0700 is really what it has, how urgent it is, and what the fix should cost. Free on iPhone and Android with an ELM327 adapter (Bluetooth LE on iPhone).
Get Skanyx freeWhat does P0700 mean?
P0700 is a transmission-related diagnostic trouble code classified as high severity. When your vehicle's ECU detects this condition, it stores P0700 and illuminates the check engine light.
What are the symptoms of P0700?
If your vehicle has triggered P0700, you may notice one or more of these symptoms:
- Check engine light illuminated
- Transmission warning light on
- Harsh or delayed gear shifts
- Vehicle stuck in limp mode (single gear)
- Transmission slipping between gears
- Inability to shift into certain gears
What causes P0700?
Here are the most common causes of P0700:
Low transmission fluid level or degraded fluid
: high
Faulty transmission solenoid pack
: high
Worn valve body
: medium
Transmission control module (TCM) failure
: medium
Damaged wiring between TCM and transmission
: low
Internal transmission mechanical failure
: low
Is it safe to drive with P0700?
No - address this immediately. P0700 indicates a transmission control fault. Continued driving risks further damage to the transmission. Reduce speed, avoid heavy acceleration, and have the vehicle diagnosed promptly.
How do you diagnose P0700?
Follow these steps to pinpoint the root cause of P0700:
- Read the transmission module's own codes. P0700 is an informational code: the actual fault is stored as a separate transmission code (e.g., P0715, P0720, P0741). A generic OBD2 reader often shows it, but some makes keep it only in the transmission module, where manufacturer-level software is needed.
- Check transmission fluid level and condition. Dark, burnt-smelling fluid indicates internal wear, and a low fluid level can cause shifting problems.
- With manufacturer-level software, read transmission live data such as line pressure, solenoid control values and gear ratios, and compare them to the manufacturer specifications. A generic OBD2 reader cannot show these values.
- Inspect the transmission wiring harness and connector for damage, especially where it enters the transmission case, where fluid leaks and corrosion can reach the connector.
- If no wiring faults are found and fluid is in good condition, the solenoid pack or valve body is the most likely internal cause. A transmission specialist can perform a pressure test to isolate the fault.
How much does P0700 cost to fix?
Repair costs for P0700 vary depending on the root cause and your vehicle. Here are typical estimates:
| Repair | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Total Estimate | DIY Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission fluid and filter change | €50–€150 | €80–€200 | €130–€350 | Moderate |
| Solenoid pack replacement | €150–€500 | €200–€500 | €350–€1000 | Professional |
| Valve body replacement or repair | €200–€800 | €300–€700 | €500–€1500 | Professional |
| TCM replacement and programming | €300–€1000 | €150–€350 | €450–€1350 | Professional |
Prices estimated as of March 2026. Costs vary by region, vehicle, and shop.
P0700 on specific vehicles
P0700 behaves differently depending on your vehicle. Select your car below for model-specific causes and known issues:
P0700 on Volkswagen
Volkswagen Golf
P0700 on BMW
BMW 3 Series
Ford
Ford Focus
2011-2018
The Focus Mk3 with the Powershift (DPS6) dual-clutch transmission is well known for P0700 codes. Known issues include clutch shudder, TCM failure, and input shaft seal leaks. The TCM is mounted directly on the transmission and is exposed to heat.
P0700 on Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes C-Class
Related diagnostic codes
These codes are often seen alongside P0700 or indicate related issues:
Common questions about P0700
- What does P0700 mean on my car?
- P0700 is a generic informational code telling you that the transmission control module has detected a fault. It does not describe the specific problem: you need to read the transmission module's own code to find the actual fault, which on some cars needs manufacturer-level software.
- Can I still drive with P0700?
- Driving is not recommended beyond reaching a garage. Continued driving with a transmission fault can cause severe and expensive damage. If the car enters limp mode, it is limiting operation to protect the transmission.
- Why does P0700 appear with other transmission codes?
- P0700 always accompanies another, more specific transmission code. It is the flag that tells the engine ECU a transmission fault exists. The companion code (like P0715, P0720, or P0741) identifies the actual problem.
- How much does it cost to fix P0700?
- Costs vary hugely depending on the underlying fault. A fluid change may cost 130-350 EUR, while solenoid pack, valve body or control module repairs run roughly 350-1,500 EUR. Full transmission rebuilds can exceed 3,000 EUR.
- Is P0700 always a serious problem?
- Not always. Sometimes it is triggered by low fluid, a software glitch, or a faulty sensor. However, because transmission damage can be very expensive, it should always be diagnosed promptly.
Read our detailed guides
- Next stepHow to Find Out What Is Wrong With Your Car for 15 EurosA 15 euro Bluetooth adapter and a free phone app read the exact fault code a shop charges 30 to 100 euros to pull. Here is how to do it yourself in 5 minutes.
- Transmission Slipping: The $150 Check Before the $4,000 BillEngine revs rise but the car does not. Check the fluid first: a slipping automatic can be a $150 service or a $4,000 rebuild, and the tells differ.
- Transmission Repair Cost: Repair, Rebuild or Walk Away?Transmission repair costs $150 for a fluid service, $2,000 to $4,000 for a rebuild, or $3,000 to $5,500 for a reman unit. And when the car is not worth it.
- Limp Mode in a Car: Is It Safe to Drive and How to Fix ItLimp mode caps your car at roughly 30 to 50 mph to protect the engine or gearbox. Usually safe to crawl home, never safe to stay on a motorway.
- Why Does My Car Shut Off When I Stop? Causes, Fixes and CostYour car dies at every red light, then restarts fine. Here is what causes a car to shut off when you stop, how to find the fault, and what fixes cost.
- Check Engine Light Flashing? Stop Driving and Read This FirstA flashing check engine light means the engine is misfiring right now. Pull over and read the code: the fix is usually $80 to $400, the delay costs $1,500 up.
- Car Dashboard Symbols and Meanings: Warning Lights ExplainedAn unfamiliar symbol just lit up and you need to know whether to stop. Read the colour first, then find your symbol in the table: every one carries its verdict.
Scan your car with Skanyx to diagnose P0700
Your car logged P0700. Skanyx reads it on a standard OBD2 adapter (Bluetooth LE on iPhone), tells you whether it is safe to keep driving, and shows the €130-€1500 repair range so you know the number before a shop quotes you. Free on iPhone and Android, and you do not need to be a mechanic to read it.
Get Skanyx freeGet the newsletter
New fault-code guides, real repair-cost data and seasonal car-care tips. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
We only email about car diagnostics content. Privacy Policy