Definition of error code P0715
Fault code P0715 is related to the communication between the engine and the vehicle’s transmission. When the input speed sensor does not receive a signal that is within the manufacturer’s parameters, P0715 lights up because the transmission will not be able to read the engine speed to shift gears correctly.
What does the P0715 code mean
P0715 is a generic OBD-II code for a signal error between the engine control module (ECM) and the automatic transmission control module (TCM). When this code occurs, the input speed sensor does not detect the engine (turbine) speed, receives an incorrect signal, and is unable to shift according to the manufacturer’s parameters.
What causes the P0715 code?
P0715 usually has a primary cause and other secondary problems that are less common. These include:
- Defective transmission speed sensor
- Defective or damaged speed sensor wiring.
- Electrical connection with defective speed sensor.
- Defective shift solenoids
- Transmission valve body damaged
- Contaminated or low transmission fluid level
What are the symptoms of the P0715 code?
The most common symptoms of P0715 will be problems with hard or uneven shifting. It may also happen that the transmission does not shift automatically.
How does a mechanic diagnose a P0715 code?
A visual inspection of the input speed sensor will be the mechanic’s first step in determining its condition and the condition of its wiring. If there are damaged wires, they will be replaced. Your mechanic can check the voltage and ground of the sensor wires to see if there is a fault in the wiring or the sensor itself. If the wiring is correct, the mechanic will replace the sensor, reset the ECM and test the vehicle. If that doesn’t solve the problem, there may be a problem with the automatic transmission itself.
The most common errors when diagnosing the P0715 code.
Some of the input speed sensor wires may be damaged by transmission fluid leaks that have not been repaired after replacing the wires and/or sensors. If this happens, the sensor is likely to fail again soon.
How serious is the code P0715?
P0715 codes can affect vehicles in different ways, as some cause no noticeable problems, while others cause the transmission to simply not shift. An automatic transmission that does not shift is not only inconvenient, but also dangerous.
What repairs can fix the P0715 code?
The most common repairs for P0715 are as follows:
- Input speed sensor replacement
- Repair the faulty speed sensor input wiring harness.
Additional notes on code P0715
P0715 codes do not only apply to traditional automatic transmissions, as some models with continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) may also be affected.