P0700 on Honda: How to Diagnose & Fix
Transmission Control System Malfunction
8 Honda models · 11 documented issues · 11 critical · $100-$7,000 repair
P0700 on Honda by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
Complete transmission failure due to faulty bearings and defective 3rd clutch components in 4-speed (1999-2001) and 5-speed (2002-2004) automatic transmissions. The 2002-2004 transmission can suddenly downshift from 5th to 2nd gear causing dangerous drivability issues. Honda recalled 1.1 million vehicles in 2004 and settled class-action lawsuit in 2006.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden harsh downshifts from 5th to 2nd gear
- Grinding or whining noises from transmission
- Slipping between gears
- Transmission overheating
- Complete failure to shift
- Metal fragments in transmission fluid
How to Fix
Complete transmission replacement or rebuild required. Honda extended the transmission warranty on 1999-2001 models to 7 years/100,000 miles, and a class-action settlement extended coverage for some of them to 93 months/109,000 miles. For 2002-2004 models with under 15,000 miles, dealers modified oil cooler return line; over 15,000 miles showing overheating damage received complete transmission replacement.
Owner tips & cautions
- WarningThis is the most serious issue affecting 2nd generation Odysseys - avoid 1999-2004 models unless transmission has been completely replaced
- TipCheck transmission fluid regularly for metal particles and discoloration indicating overheating
- TipRequest CarFax and maintenance records showing transmission replacement before purchasing used 1999-2004 Odyssey
- TipTransmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 miles on these models (not Honda's recommended 90,000) to prolong life
Sources for this issue (3)
The ZF 9HP 9-speed automatic transmission experienced severe drivability issues from programming defects. Honda traced intermittent harsh or jerky upshifts and DTC P0716 to abnormal TCM adaptation values or a miscalculation in the TCM software, and owners report shaking/juddering, hesitation when accelerating from stops, and harsh downshifts at low speeds. Multiple class-action lawsuits filed against Honda.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden violent shaking/shuddering during acceleration
- Harsh downshifts between 2nd and 3rd gear
- Hesitation when accelerating from stops
- Jerking when merging into traffic or uphill
- Rough shifting at low speeds (under 30 mph)
- Transmission slipping sensation
How to Fix
Honda issued Service Bulletin 19-124 for 2018-19 Odyssey LX, EX and EX-L with the 9-speed: the dealer updates the transmission control module (TCM) software, which addresses intermittent harsh or jerky upshifts and DTC P0716; the TCM needs about 500 miles afterward to re-adapt to the driver. For 2020 Honda dropped the 9-speed and fitted its 10-speed automatic to all Odyssey trims.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Honda/Acura ATF Type 3.1, one quartOEMHonda 08268-P99-4EDAD (supersedes 08200-9017)
Exact fluid branch only when a correctly diagnosed 2018-2019 Odyssey ZF 9AT needs scheduled or condition-based fluid service Fitment/availability: 2018-2019 U.S. Honda Odyssey LX, EX and EX-L with the ZF nine-speed only.
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Owner tips & cautions
- TipDemand complete triple drain-and-fill procedure per TSB 17-043 - single fluid change won't fix it
- TipAfter TSB repair, shuddering may take 100-200 miles of driving to disappear as transmission relearns
- WarningAvoid 2018-2019 Odyssey models if possible - 9-speed transmission has fundamental design flaws
Sources for this issue (3)
On the 2000 Accord V6, the automatic transmission can fail, with harsh or erratic shifting, flashing gear indicators, slipping, and sudden loss of drive. Multiple complaints describe the car dropping into near-standstill operation while moving, repeated rebuilds or replacements, and dangerous failures in traffic.
Common Symptoms
- D4 or gear indicator light flashing
- Transmission slipping or flaring between gears
- Vehicle suddenly slows or loses drive while moving
- Harsh shifting or clunking before failure
- Repeated transmission rebuilds or replacements
How to Fix
Diagnosis should start with a scan for transmission-related faults, fluid inspection, and road testing for slip or flare between gears. In many cases the fix is a transmission rebuild or replacement, along with replacement of failed shift solenoids, pressure switches, and worn internal clutch packs; a remanufactured unit is often the most durable repair. Expect about $250 for fluid/solenoid work if caught early, but $2800-$4500 for a quality rebuild or replacement.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Honda ATF DW-1 automatic-transmission fluid, 1 quartOEMHonda 08200-9008
Verify service quantity in the manual.
- Genuine Honda 2000 Accord V6 transmission sensor/solenoid assembliesOEMHonda diagnosis-specific AT solenoid/switch
Confirm sedan/coupe, trim, transmission code, failed circuit and superseded part by VIN before ordering; do not buy every solenoid f
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Sources for this issue (1)
Early Honda Accord CVTs are widely reported to shake or judder on light acceleration from a stop. Honda acknowledged the problem in Service Bulletin 13-053, which says the CVT needs hardware and software updates.
Common Symptoms
- Shaking or juddering during acceleration from a stop
- Vibration felt through the steering wheel and floor
- Hesitation during gear transitions
- Rough or jerky shifts at low speeds
How to Fix
Install the updated transmission valve body kit and update the PGM-FI software per Service Bulletin 13-053. Service the CVT fluid with Honda HCF-2 fluid. In severe cases, the CVT is replaced.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Honda 06270-5C4-315 lower CVT valve-body kitOEMHonda 06270-5C4-315
Install the updated lower valve body required by Honda bulletin 13-053 Fitment/availability: 2013 Accord L4 CVT all VINs and only the specified 2014 L4 CVT VIN ranges in bulletin 13-053. VIN validation and the accompanying PGM-FI softwar…
- Honda 08200-HCF2 HCF-2 CVT fluid, 1 quartOEMHonda 08200-HCF2
Refill the second-generation CVT during the diagnosed valve-body repair or specified fluid service Fitment/availability: 2013-2015 Accord L4 CVT only after confirming the HCF-2 fill-plug label and VIN.
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Sources for this issue (1)
The Honda 4-speed automatic in the mid-to-late 1990s Accord is prone to slipping and outright failure, typically around/after 100,000 miles. As the internal clutch material wears, debris circulates in the fluid and clogs the shift solenoids, causing harsh or delayed shifts, flaring, and eventual loss of drive. The V6 automatic (2.7L C27A4 in 1995-1997, 3.0L J30A1 from 1998) is especially notorious, and the failure mode carried through the 1998-2002 generation's V6 cars, which became one of Honda's most infamous transmissions of the era. Owners who never serviced the fluid (Honda ATF, about every 30,000 miles) fare worst.
Common Symptoms
- Slipping / RPM flare between gears
- Harsh or delayed shifts, thud on engagement
- No drive in a particular gear (e.g. no 4th)
- Loss of power / acceleration
- Burnt-smelling or dark transmission fluid
How to Fix
Early on, a fluid-and-filter service with genuine Honda ATF and solenoid inspection/cleaning can slow the decline. Once slipping is established, the accepted repair is a full rebuild (new clutch packs, solenoids, torque converter, and cooler flush) or a remanufactured/used transmission. Always flush the cooler and lines to prevent re-contaminating a fresh unit.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Honda ATF DW-1 automatic-transmission fluid, 1 quartOEMHonda 08200-9008 ATF DW-1
Perform the specified drain-and-fill service after confirming the transmission and fluid condition Fitment/availability: 1995-1999 Accord four-speed automatic applications originally specifying Honda ATF-Z1, where current Honda service i…
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Sources for this issue (3)
New CVT in 3rd gen Fit (2015-2020) had significant issues, particularly 2015-2016. Owners report hesitation, shuddering during acceleration, and whining or howling from the transmission. Honda addressed some issues with software updates. Transmission cooler addition ($80-150) reportedly prevents issues according to some owners. Use only Honda HCF-2 CVT fluid ($35-50/quart); other fluids can void the warranty and cause damage. Change the CVT fluid every 30,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
- Hesitation or shuddering during acceleration
- Whining or howling noise from transmission
- Sudden loss of power
- Jerky acceleration
- Check engine light with transmission codes
- Transmission slipping
How to Fix
Perform Honda CVT software update immediately at dealer (often free or low cost); 2015 Fits built March 2014 to May 2015 are covered by recall 15V-574, a free transmission software update. Change the CVT fluid every 30,000 miles with Honda HCF-2 fluid only. Avoid aggressive acceleration and towing. Transmission cooler addition ($80-150) may help. If internal failure: Replacement $2,500-4,500, rebuild $1,500-2,500. Multiple Honda TSBs issued - check VIN for specific recalls.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Honda 08200-HCF2 HCF-2 CVT fluid, one quartOEMHonda 08200-HCF2
Verify capacity and procedure in the applicable owner/service information; fluids a
- Genuine Honda 90471-PX4-000 18 mm CVT drain-plug washerOEMHonda 90471-PX4-000
Honda Fit CVT drain plug; confirm against the applicable service diagram/VIN.
- Genuine Honda 94109-20000 20 mm CVT fill-plug washerOEMHonda 94109-20000
Honda Fit CVT fill plug; confirm plug configuration against VIN/service information before ordering.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
- WarningUse ONLY Honda HF-F CVT fluid ($35-50/quart) - other fluids void warranty and cause catastrophic damage
- TipSoftware updates from dealer ASAP - Honda issued multiple TSBs to address CVT issues, get them applied
- TipChange CVT fluid every 30,000 miles religiously - $150 service prevents $2,500+ transmission replacement
- WarningAvoid aggressive acceleration and towing - CVT is not designed for performance driving or heavy loads
- TipCheck VIN for Honda extended warranty coverage on CVT - many 2015-2016 models have extended coverage
Sources for this issue (3)
P0700 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0700 mean on a Honda?
P0700 stands for "Transmission Control System Malfunction." P0700 is a general code indicating the transmission control module (TCM) has detected a fault somewhere in the transmission control system and has requested the check engine light be turned on. By itself it doesn't pinpoint the problem — it's an 'umbrella' code that tells you to look for additional, more specific transmission codes stored alongside it. The actual fault could be electrical, a sensor, a solenoid, or an internal transmission issue. You may notice harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, or the transmission going into a protective 'limp' mode. On Honda it is documented across 8 models: Odyssey, Accord, Fit, Civic, HR-V, CR-V, Passport, Insight.
What are the most common causes of P0700?
The most common causes of P0700 are: Stored companion transmission codes pointing to the real fault, Faulty shift solenoid or pressure control solenoid, Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid, Faulty transmission speed or input/output sensor, Wiring, connector, or ground problems at the transmission, Failing transmission control module (TCM), Internal transmission mechanical wear or clutch problems, Valve body fault or sticking valves. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0700 on a Honda?
Published repair estimates on Honda range from $100 to $7,000 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.