P0700 on Mitsubishi: How to Diagnose & Fix
Transmission Control System Malfunction
5 Mitsubishi models · 5 documented issues · 5 critical · $1,500-$7,000 repair
P0700 on Mitsubishi by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
9th-gen Galant transmissions develop two distinct failure patterns: the 2.4L I4 cars use the F4A4 4-speed (torque converter clutch shudder, harsh shifts after ~100k miles) and the V6 Sport/Ralliart use the W5A51 5-speed Sportronic (3rd-gear clutch pack failure, solenoid issues). Both are repairable but expensive. Mitsubishi did not issue an extended warranty for either failure mode; the V6 5-speed failures are particularly costly due to less aftermarket support.
Common Symptoms
- Harsh shifting between gears
- Transmission slipping under load
- Delayed engagement from park
- Burnt transmission fluid
How to Fix
Change ATF every 30,000 miles and install an auxiliary transmission cooler. When failure occurs, a remanufactured transmission is the most cost-effective solution. Avoid aggressive driving to extend transmission life.
The 4-speed automatic transmission in the 3rd generation Eclipse (particularly V6 GT models) is prone to premature failure. The transmission develops harsh shifting, slipping, and eventually fails completely, often due to overheating and worn clutch packs.
Common Symptoms
- Harsh or delayed shifts
- Transmission slipping in higher gears
- Burnt ATF smell
- Transmission overheating warning
How to Fix
Install an auxiliary transmission cooler to prevent overheating. Change the ATF every 30,000 miles. When the transmission fails, consider a quality remanufactured unit from a Mitsubishi specialist.
Sources for this issue (1)
The Endeavor 4-speed automatic transmission develops harsh shifting and premature wear, often failing between 100,000 and 130,000 miles. The transmission shares components with the Galant and Eclipse platforms, inheriting their reliability weaknesses.
Common Symptoms
- Hard shifting between 2nd and 3rd gear
- Transmission slipping under acceleration
- Delayed reverse engagement
- Overheating during towing
How to Fix
Perform ATF changes every 30,000 miles. Install an auxiliary cooler for vehicles used for towing. A quality remanufactured transmission with updated clutch packs is the best repair option.
The Jatco CVT in the Outlander is prone to premature failure, particularly under heavy loads and in hot climates. The CVT belt and pulleys wear prematurely, leading to slipping, shuddering, and eventual complete transmission failure, often between 60,000 and 100,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
- Transmission shuddering during acceleration
- Loss of power at highway speeds
- Whining noise increasing with speed
- CVT overheating warning
How to Fix
Change CVT fluid every 30,000 miles using Mitsubishi DiaQueen CVTF-J4. Avoid aggressive driving and towing near maximum capacity. If the CVT fails, replacement with a remanufactured unit is more cost-effective than rebuild.
Non-Evolution Lancer models with the CVT experience premature transmission failure, with the CVT belt and pulleys wearing out between 80,000 and 120,000 miles. The transmission develops slipping, shuddering, and eventually complete failure.
Common Symptoms
- Transmission slipping
- Shudder during acceleration
- Whining noise from transmission
- Loss of drive at highway speeds
How to Fix
Regular CVT fluid changes every 30,000 miles can extend transmission life. When the CVT fails, a remanufactured unit from a reputable rebuilder is more cost-effective than a new Mitsubishi unit.
Sources for this issue (1)
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 Mitsubishi?
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 Mitsubishi it is documented across 5 models: Galant, Eclipse, Endeavor, Outlander, Lancer.
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 Mitsubishi?
Published repair estimates on Mitsubishi range from $1,500 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.
Looking for P0700 on a different make?
View P0700 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.