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P1704 — Autotransmission | Secondary pressure sensor

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Code

P1704

FIAT P — Powertrain

Autotransmission | Secondary pressure sensor

Brand: FIAT
AI status
Completed
ready
Completed 100%
Page language: EN

Causes

  • Faulty secondary pressure sensor (internal failure)
  • Damaged, corroded or disconnected sensor connector or wiring harness
  • Short to ground or to battery in signal/reference circuit
  • Low or contaminated transmission fluid affecting pressure readings
  • Valve body or hydraulic control block fault (sticking valve, leak)
  • Failed TCM/ECU or poor ground at control module

Symptoms

  • Transmission may go into limp/reduced‑gear mode
  • Harsh, delayed or incorrect shifting
  • Transmission warning light or MIL illuminated
  • Stored transmission-related trouble codes
  • Possible slipping or unexpected gear engagement behavior

What to check

  • Read and record freeze frame data and live sensor values with a capable scan tool
  • Visual inspection of sensor, connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, pulling or pin pushout
  • Check transmission fluid level and condition (contamination, metal debris)
  • Backprobe sensor signal, reference and ground pins while monitoring voltage
  • Wiggle test harness while observing live data and watch for intermittent changes
  • Check TCM power and ground circuits and related fuses/relays

Signal parameters

  • Sensor type: analog pressure sensor (typically 3‑wire: 5 V reference, signal, ground)
  • Reference: approx. 5 V supply from TCM (verify with meter)
  • Signal voltage: commonly in the range ~0.5–4.5 V proportional to pressure (consult OEM spec for exact values)
  • Expected behavior: signal changes with engine speed/gear and when hydraulic pressure changes
  • Resistance: varies by design—consult OEM service data for exact ohms if measuring with meter

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Connect scan tool, read codes and freeze frame; note when code set and any concurrent codes.
  2. Perform visual inspection of sensor, connector and wiring; repair obvious damage and clear code to retest.
  3. With ignition on, backprobe sensor connector: verify 5 V reference present, good ground and that signal toggles with engine/transmission operation. Record voltages.
  4. Wiggle harness and connectors while watching live data for intermittent faults; repair/replace connectors or wiring as needed.
  5. Check transmission fluid level and condition; top up or service fluid if low/contaminated and retest.
  6. If electrical checks fail (open/short), trace and repair wiring or replace connector. If wiring is good but signal out of range, replace the secondary pressure sensor.
  7. If replacement sensor and wiring are good but fault persists, inspect valve body/hydraulic circuits for internal leaks or sticking valves; measure line pressure with a calibrated mechanical gauge and compare to OEM values.
  8. If hydraulic pressures are correct and wiring/sensor are verified, evaluate TCM for internal fault and consider reflashing/updating software or replacement as final step.
  9. After repairs, clear codes and perform road test and full scan tool verification to confirm repair.

Likely causes

  • Open/short or poor connection at sensor connector
  • Failed pressure sensor
  • Contaminated/low transmission fluid or internal hydraulic leak

Fault status

⚠️ Status
Transmission control module detected invalid/absent secondary pressure sensor signal (circuit malfunction/out of range). Fault stored and MIL may be illuminated; limp mode possible.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1-3 hours

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