P1705 Code: Transmission Range Sensor Fault – What It Means & How to Fix It (iCarsoft CR MAX Guide)

If your check engine light illuminates and a scan reveals code P1705, you’re dealing with a critical issue in your vehicle’s transmission range detection system. This manufacturer-specific code is most common in Nissan/Infiniti (e.g., Altima, Rogue, Q50) and GM (Chevrolet, GMC) models, where it signals a failure in the Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) or its circuit. The TRS tells the Engine Control Module (ECM) and Transmission Control Module (TCM) which gear the vehicle is in—without this data, you may face stuck gears, no-start issues, or erratic shifting.

Basic scanners only confirm P1705 but can’t distinguish between a faulty TRS, broken wiring, or TCM glitch. The iCarsoft CR MAX solves this with model-specific TRS specs, real-time gear monitoring, and bi-directional testing—turning transmission diagnostics into a straightforward process. This guide walks you through diagnosing and clearing P1705 step-by-step.

First: Understand P1705 – What It Is & Why It Matters

P1705’s meaning varies by manufacturer, but its core issue is a breakdown in the TRS system. Start with these fundamentals to avoid misdiagnosis:

Manufacturer-Specific P1705 Definitions

Key Symptoms of P1705

Common Causes of P1705

Why iCarsoft CR MAX Is Essential for P1705

P1705 requires transmission-specific diagnostics—an area where basic scanners fail. The CR MAX excels with these critical features:

Step-by-Step: Diagnose P1705 with iCarsoft CR MAX

1. Connect CR MAX & Confirm P1705
   • Plug the CR MAX into your vehicle’s OBD-II port (under the dashboard) and power it on.
   • Select your vehicle’s make, model, and year—use AutoVIN Recognition for accuracy (critical for manufacturer-specific code definitions):
     • Nissan/Infiniti: Select Nissan > [Model] > [Year] (e.g., Nissan > Rogue > 2019).
     • GM: Select GM > Chevrolet/GMC > [Model] > [Year] (e.g., GM > Chevrolet > Silverado 1500 > 2020).
   • Navigate to Transmission > Fault Codes > Read Codes to confirm P1705. Note related codes:
     • P0700: “Transmission Control System Malfunction” (indicates TCM involvement—address P1705 first).
     • P0705: Generic TRS code (may appear alongside P1705 in some GM models).
   • Tap Code Details to view the exact definition (e.g., “Nissan Altima: TRS Circuit No Signal in P/N”) and recommended first steps.
2. Check Transmission Fluid (Quick First Step)

   Low fluid is an easy fix for P1705 in GM and Mitsubishi vehicles—start here to save time:

   • For Vehicles with Electronic Fluid Monitoring (GM/Nissan):
     • Navigate to Transmission > Live Data > Fluid Status.
     • CR MAX displays fluid level (“Normal”/“Low”) and temperature (should be 175–200°F for accurate testing).
   • For Vehicles with Dipstick:
     • Use Component Location to find the transmission dipstick (near the engine oil dipstick).
     • Check level per CR MAX’s guidance (engine running, in P/N, at operating temperature).
   • If fluid is low: Add manufacturer-recommended fluid (Nissan Matic S, GM Dexron VI). Re-scan—if P1705 clears, the issue was fluid-related. If not, proceed to Step 3.
3. Analyze Real-Time TRS Data

   The CR MAX’s live data reveals if the TRS is sending valid gear signals:

   • Go to Transmission > Live Data > Range Sensor and select these parameters:
     • “TRS Gear Signal” (raw data: “P,” “R,” “N,” “D,” “L”).
     • “TRS Circuit Voltage” (varies by gear—check CR MAX’s model-specific specs).
     • “Dashboard Gear Display” (what the instrument cluster shows).
   • Turn the ignition to “On” (engine off, if it won’t start) and move the shifter through all gears (P → R → N → D → L). Observe the data:
     • Scenario 1: TRS Signal ≠ Dashboard Display: Misadjusted or faulty TRS (proceed to Step 4).
     • Scenario 2: TRS Voltage = 0V/5V in All Gears: Open circuit (broken wire) or shorted sensor (proceed to Step 5).
     • Scenario 3: TRS Signal Fluctuates Randomly: Corroded connector (intermittent contact—proceed to Step 5).
4. Test TRS Adjustment & Function (Bi-Directional Control)

   If the TRS signal is mismatched, use the CR MAX to test and adjust it:

   • Step 1: Access TRS Test Mode:
     • Navigate to Special Functions > Transmission > Range Sensor Test.
     • Follow prompts: Turn ignition to “On” (engine off) and set shifter to “N.”
   • Step 2: Bi-Directional Signal Test:
     • The CR MAX “requests” specific gear signals (e.g., “Send ‘P’ Signal”).
     • Monitor “TRS Response”:
       • Valid Response: Sensor sends correct voltage (e.g., 0.5V for “P”) → TRS is functional but misadjusted.
       • No Response: Sensor is faulty (replace it—proceed to Step 6).
   • Step 3: Adjust the TRS (If Functional):
     • Loosen the TRS’s mounting bolts (don’t remove them—use CR MAX’s torque specs for reference).
     • Move the sensor slightly until the CR MAX shows “TRS Signal Matches Gear” for all positions.
     • Tighten bolts to specified torque (e.g., 8 ft-lbs for Nissan, 10 ft-lbs for GM).
5. Inspect TRS Wiring & Connectors

   If the TRS signal is erratic or missing, check the circuit’s electrical integrity:

   • Step 1: Locate the TRS: Use Component Location (mounted on the transmission case, 6–8 pin connector).
   • Step 2: Disconnect the Connector: Inspect pins for corrosion, bending, or damage. Clean corroded pins with electrical contact cleaner.
   • Step 3: Test with CR MAX’s Multimeter:
     • Continuity Test: Set to “Ohms.” Connect probes between the TRS connector and TCM connector (use CR MAX’s wiring diagram for pin labels). No continuity = broken wire (repair with heat-shrink tubing).
     • Voltage Test: Set to “DC Voltage.” Turn ignition to “On” and connect one probe to the TRS’s “Power” pin (12V) and the other to ground. No voltage = blown transmission fuse (use Fuse Location to find and replace it).

Repair & Verify: Clear P1705 for Good

Once you’ve identified the root cause (faulty TRS, wiring, or adjustment), follow these steps to repair and confirm the fix:

1. Replace the TRS (If Faulty)
   • Step 1: Find the Correct Part: Use CR MAX’s Part Lookup (e.g., Nissan TRS #31918-3JA0A for 2019 Rogue, GM TRS #12677836 for 2020 Silverado).
   • Step 2: Follow Replacement Guidance:
     • Disconnect the battery (prevents TCM damage).
     • Remove the old TRS (unbolt and disconnect the connector).
     • Install the new TRS and align it per CR MAX’s adjustment guide (ensure signal matches gear positions).
   • Step 3: Reconnect the Battery: Turn ignition to “On” (don’t start) to let the TCM recognize the new sensor.
2. Clear P1705 & Reset the TCM
   • Navigate to Transmission > Fault Codes > Clear Codes and select P1705. Confirm deletion—this turns off the check engine/transmission light.
   • Run Special Functions > Transmission > TCM Relearn: Resets the TCM’s gear position memory, ensuring it aligns with the repaired TRS.
3. Verify Repairs
   • Test startup: The engine should start easily in P/N (no crank in D/R—normal safety interlock).
   • Shift through all gears: Check that the dashboard display matches the shifter position (e.g., “R” shows when shifter is in Reverse).
   • Take a 20-mile test drive (city + highway): Use CR MAX’s Data Logging to record TRS signals. Ensure smooth shifting (no limp mode or erratic changes).
   • Re-scan after the drive: No P1705 + consistent TRS data = successful fix.

How to Prevent P1705 from Recurring

Use the CR MAX to maintain your transmission range system and avoid future P1705 codes:

Can I Drive with P1705?

Summary Table: P1705 Diagnosis Workflow (CR MAX-Powered)

Final Thoughts

P1705’s transmission-related symptoms (no start, stuck gears) can be stressful, but the iCarsoft CR MAX simplifies diagnosis and repair. By combining model-specific TRS data, bi-directional testing, and step-by-step guidance, it helps you fix the real issue—whether it’s low fluid, a misadjusted sensor, or broken wiring—without guessing.

For Nissan/Infiniti, GM, or Mitsubishi owners, the CR MAX is the key to resolving P1705 quickly, restoring transmission functionality, and avoiding costly dealer visits. Don’t let a range sensor fault leave you stranded—use the CR MAX to get back on the road with confidence.