P0711 on Chevrolet: How to Diagnose & Fix
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
1 Chevrolet model · 1 documented issue · $150-$1,200 repair
P0711 on Chevrolet by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
Silverado 1500 trucks with the 8L90 eight-speed (and the older 6L80 six-speed) can run dangerously hot when the factory transmission thermal bypass valve sticks closed, so fluid never reaches the cooler — common under towing or heavy load. Sustained temperatures above ~220-250°F oxidize the fluid and cook the clutches and torque converter, accelerating the separately-known shudder/wear and shortening transmission life. Compounding this, the transmission cooler lines and fittings are a frequent leak point on these trucks, dropping fluid level and worsening heat. Owners towing in hot climates are most affected.
Common Symptoms
- High transmission temperature, especially while towing
- Burnt-smelling or dark transmission fluid
- Harsh/erratic shifts as fluid degrades
- Red transmission fluid leak / low fluid level
- Transmission goes into limp/reduced-power mode when hot
How to Fix
Verify transmission temperature behavior and inspect the cooler lines/fittings for leaks. Replace or delete/upgrade the failed thermal bypass valve so fluid reaches the cooler, repair leaking cooler lines/fittings, and service with fresh Dexron-VI fluid. Adding or upgrading an external transmission cooler is a common preventive measure for trucks that tow. Confirm fluid level and condition, as low/oxidized fluid both causes and results from overheating.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Transmission fluid cooler thermal bypass valve (OEM) - 2015-2018 8L90 8-speed, 3/8" linesOEM13561467Cross-refPPE 125071000 (billet aluminum, full-flow upgrade w/ magneti, ACDelco 13561467$90–$160
Fits 2015-2018 Silverado 1500 5.3L and 6.2L trucks with the 8L90 8-speed and 3/8" cooler lines.
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Sources for this issue (1)
P0711 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 P0711 mean on a Chevrolet?
P0711 stands for "Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance." P0711 means the transmission fluid temperature (TFT) sensor's signal is outside its expected range or not changing as the computer expects (range/performance). This sensor monitors how hot the transmission fluid is so the computer can adjust shift timing, torque converter lockup, and protect the transmission from overheating. A range/performance fault usually means the sensor is reading an implausible or 'stuck' value rather than being completely open or shorted. It can cause harsh or delayed shifts, no torque converter lockup, or the transmission defaulting to a protective mode. On Chevrolet it is documented across 1 model: Silverado 1500.
What are the most common causes of P0711?
The most common causes of P0711 are: Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, Low, old, or contaminated transmission fluid, Wiring or connector problems in the sensor circuit, Internal transmission overheating or restriction, Sensor reading stuck or drifting out of range, Poor ground or reference voltage to the sensor, Faulty transmission control module (TCM/PCM). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0711 on a Chevrolet?
Published repair estimates on Chevrolet range from $150 to $1,200 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 P0711 on a different make?
View P0711 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.