Code
P274C
Generic
P — Powertrain
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor C Circuit Low
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
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
- Retrieve stored codes and freeze-frame. Note conditions when code set (temp, key/engine state, vehicle speed).
- Verify battery voltage and grounds. Low system voltage can cause false readings.
- Visually inspect the TFT Sensor C connector, pins, and harness along its routed path for damage, corrosion, or chafing. Repair any obvious issues.
- Backprobe the sensor connector with key ON (engine OFF). Measure signal voltage relative to ground. A very low voltage suggests a short to ground.
- 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.
- Measure sensor resistance (if serviceable) across sensor terminals at known ambient temp and compare to OEM spec. Replace sensor if resistance indicates internal short.
- 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.
- Repair or replace wiring, connector(s), or sensor as diagnosed. Use proper crimping, sealing and routing practices.
- Clear codes, perform functional test and test drive while monitoring TFT Sensor C live data to confirm fault does not return.
- 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
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