Trans fluid temp sensor reading off.
P0711 — also written PO711, P 0711, 0711 — is the OBD-II code for transmission fluid temp sensor performance. Same code, same fix: this page covers every spelling of it.
Transmission fluid temperature sensor performance — usually on automatic gearboxes. Often a failed sensor, but low or contaminated ATF can give the same code.
P0711 is a transmission fault code, typically costing £150–£600 to put right in a UK garage.
What P0711 actually feels like to drive
- Harsh or delayed gear changes
- Gearbox may enter limp mode (locked in 3rd or 4th)
- Transmission warning light
- Slipping during gear changes when warm
- Possible smell of burnt ATF
What causes P0711?
- Failed sensor
- Wiring
UK vehicles that throw P0711 most often
- BMW automatics (ZF 6HP / 8HP gearboxes)
- Mercedes 722.6 / 722.9 (5G-Tronic, 7G-Tronic)
- VW DSG / S-Tronic
- Ford PowerShift
- Vauxhall AF40 (Insignia / Astra)
How P0711 is fixed
- Sensor replacement
The P0711 misdiagnosis that wastes money
Don't authorise a new gearbox until ATF service has been done and the sensor has been swapped. Many 'failed' automatics on BMW and Mercedes are just suffering from filthy oil and a £80 sensor.
What a UK garage should charge for P0711
ATF service (drain, filter, refill — NOT flush): £180–£420 depending on capacity and ATF cost. Sensor replacement (in pan): £180–£380 fitted with new gasket. Mechatronic / valve body work: £600–£1,800. Full gearbox replacement: £1,800–£4,500+.
P0711 repair cost in the UK
Most P0711 repairs land between £150–£600 including parts and labour. The spread is wide because the cheap fix (a sensor, a hose, a leak) and the expensive fix (a major component) throw the same code — which is why a proper diagnosis before parts are bought saves the most money.
Bob's tip on P0711
Get the ATF level checked using a scan tool reading transmission temperature — these gearboxes are very fussy about being checked at exactly 35–45°C, and overfilling causes worse symptoms than underfilling. Never trust a 'sealed for life' gearbox over 60,000 miles without a service.
Can you drive with P0711?
Drivable.
Urgency: medium.