P0700 Code: Transmission Control System (MIL Request)
P0700 means the transmission control module has detected a fault and is asking the ECM to turn on the check engine light — it points you to look for a stored transmission code.
- Applies to
- All OBD-II vehicles (any make or model)
- Est. repair cost
- $100 – $1,500
- Time to fix
- 1-3 hours
What it means
P0700 itself is informational — the real cause is a separate transmission code (e.g. shift-solenoid, speed-sensor, or fluid issues) stored alongside it. This is a generic OBD-II powertrain code defined in the SAE J2012 standard, so it applies to virtually any 1996-or-newer OBD-II vehicle — cars, trucks, and modern fuel-injected motorcycles — from any manufacturer (Toyota, Honda, Ford and the rest). Read it with any OBD-II scanner; the meaning is the same across brands, though the exact repair can vary by engine.
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Harsh, delayed, or erratic shifting
- Possible limp mode
How to fix it
- 1
Read the transmission code behind it
1. Scan for the accompanying transmission DTC (P07xx). 2. Diagnose that specific code and check the transmission fluid. 3. Repair the underlying fault, then clear the codes.
Frequently asked questions
P0700 with no other code — what now?
P0700 is just a "check the transmission" flag. Use a scanner that reads TCM codes to find the specific fault it’s pointing to.
Last updated July 16, 2026
Guidance only — always consult a qualified professional or the official service manual before carrying out repairs.