1999 Mazda Protege LX - P0705 Code: Is This Relevant to a Manual Transmission?
I recently purchased a 1999 Mazda Protege LX with poor credit, so I had little choice but to buy from an untrustworthy dealer. Within 30 days of purchase, they replaced the clutch — however, it was already damaged before I received the car, and they absorbed the cost. After returning the vehicle, the check engine light came on. I brought the car back today for a diagnostic, but the technician initially reported code P0705 and claimed he didn't know what it meant. He said it's a transmission-related error and that it only applies to automatic transmissions. Since my car has a manual transmission, he dismissed it as irrelevant. However, when I asked him to verify with another tool, they later stated the code was no longer present. My concern is significant: after the faulty clutch replacement, the vehicle redlined and stalled repeatedly. It would not rev below 6000 RPM — a clear sign of potential engine or transmission damage. I suspect the dealer may have simply reset the code to avoid further repair costs. I'm asking for clarity: What does P0705 actually mean? Is it applicable to manual transmissions like mine? The original diagnostic tool clearly showed P0705 — not P0704 (Clutch Switch Input Circuit Malfunction) — and I was present during the entire process. Had I not been there, I believe they would have simply reset the code. I'm seeking reliable information to determine whether this is a real fault or just a misdiagnosis that could lead to further damage if ignored.
P0705 indicates a malfunction in the Transmission Range Sensor Circuit (PRNDL Input). Does your car currently run normally? If so, is it still under warranty or with the dealer? Regardless of their warranty terms, I strongly recommend taking it to a qualified mechanic — you might do a better job than they did.