P0712 on 2015-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 — Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input
1 vehicles · 1 makes · $150-$1,200 repair
How to diagnose and fix P0712: most-reported vehicles
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Chevrolet Silverado 1500 · 2015–2022
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 (2)
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P0712 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 P0712 mean?
P0712 stands for "Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input." Set when the PCM/TCM reads an abnormally low voltage from the transmission fluid temperature sensor circuit — typically a short to ground — which corresponds to an implausibly high indicated temperature.
What are the most common causes of P0712?
The most common causes of P0712 are: Short to ground in TFT sensor wiring, Faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor, Corroded/pinched harness, Internal transmission wiring fault, PCM input fault. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0712?
Repair costs for P0712 range from $150 to $1,200, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0712?
Au7o has documented P0712 across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Chevrolet.
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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.