Home / DTC / P274C — Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor C Circuit Low

P274C — Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor C Circuit Low

Detailed page for trouble code P274C.

34,332codes
59brands
11,841generic
22,491specific
Reset
Code

P274C

Generic P — Powertrain

Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor C Circuit Low

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

Causes

  • Short to ground in TFT Sensor C wiring
  • Corroded, loose, or damaged connector at the sensor or TCM/PCM
  • Failed/shorted TFT Sensor C (internal shorted thermistor)
  • Pin pushed out or poor terminal contact in harness/connector
  • Faulty TCM/PCM input circuit
  • Aftermarket wiring damage or recent repair incorrectly routed/connected

Symptoms

  • Check Engine / Transmission warning lamp illuminated
  • Transmission may go into limp/limited-shift mode
  • Harsh, incorrect, or delayed shifting
  • No or implausible transmission fluid temperature reading in live data
  • Possible reduced performance or stored drivability faults

What to check

  • Read freeze frame and live data for TFT Sensor C value and related transmission data
  • Confirm battery voltage is normal and charging system is healthy
  • Visually inspect sensor connector and wiring for corrosion, damage, or pin intrusion
  • Backprobe sensor connector and measure signal voltage with key ON, engine OFF
  • Measure sensor resistance (if removable) and compare to specification
  • Perform continuity checks for short to ground and open circuits between sensor and TCM

Signal parameters

  • Typical TFT sensor circuit behavior: variable voltage or resistance representing temperature (varies by vehicle).
  • Low-circuit indication often = signal voltage very low (
  • High/open circuit indication typically = very high voltage (>4.5 V) or very high/infinite resistance.
  • Expected normal operating range (example only): 0.5–4.5 V depending on temperature; consult OEM spec for exact values.

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Retrieve stored codes and freeze-frame. Note conditions when code set (temp, key/engine state, vehicle speed).
  2. Verify battery voltage and grounds. Low system voltage can cause false readings.
  3. Visually inspect the TFT Sensor C connector, pins, and harness along its routed path for damage, corrosion, or chafing. Repair any obvious issues.
  4. Backprobe the sensor connector with key ON (engine OFF). Measure signal voltage relative to ground. A very low voltage suggests a short to ground.
  5. With sensor disconnected, measure continuity between the sensor signal pin and chassis ground. If near 0 ohms, wiring is shorted to ground and must be repaired.
  6. Measure sensor resistance (if serviceable) across sensor terminals at known ambient temp and compare to OEM spec. Replace sensor if resistance indicates internal short.
  7. If wiring and sensor check OK, backprobe at the TCM/PCM connector to confirm the module input is not shorted. If short present at module, inspect for poor terminal, harness pin issue, or module fault.
  8. Repair or replace wiring, connector(s), or sensor as diagnosed. Use proper crimping, sealing and routing practices.
  9. Clear codes, perform functional test and test drive while monitoring TFT Sensor C live data to confirm fault does not return.
  10. If fault returns and wiring/sensor verified good, consult OEM wiring diagrams and consider module testing/replacement or professional assistance.

Likely causes

  • Wiring shorted to ground between the sensor and TCM (most common)
  • Corroded/contaminated connector at the sensor
  • Failed TFT sensor element
  • Damaged harness insulation abrading to chassis ground
  • Faulty control module (less common)

Fault status

⚠️ Status
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor C Circuit Low — low voltage or short to ground detected on TFT Sensor C circuit.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 0.5-2.0 hours

Similar codes

7,214

The library contains 7,214 repair and diagnostic manuals. Choose a brand to open the full manual tree by year, model and trim.

Your experience will help others
+100 karma for a short comment :)
Send to email