Circuit Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Pontiac G5 Pursuit, 2007 Pontiac G5, and 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The automatic transmission fluid temperature (TFT) sensor is a thermistor. The TFT sensor is part of the automatic transmission fluid pressure (TFP) manual valve position switch. The transmission control module (TCM) supplies a 5 volt reference signal to the sensor. When the transmission fluid is cold, the sensor resistance is high and the TCM senses a high signal voltage. As the transmission fluid warms, the sensor resistance lowers and the TCM senses lower voltage. The TCM uses the TFT reading in order to control the torque converter clutch (TCC), line pressure adjustments, and temperature compensated shifts.

When the TCM detects a continuous short to ground in the TFT circuit or the TFT sensor, then DTC P0712 sets. DTC P0712 is a type C DTC.