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2005 Acura TL P0706 Code: Hard Shifts, No 'D' Gear Indicator, and Failure to Engage 3rd Gear

Model: Acura TL Fault Code: P0706 Posted: 2019-05-23 13:41

Hello, I own a 2005 Acura TL and am experiencing a drivability issue. A few days ago, while driving on the highway at around 100 km/h, I noticed a sudden loss of power for a brief moment. The engine began revving unusually high, and I realized the 'D' gear indicator light was not illuminated. This is concerning because the vehicle should be in drive. The issue repeated later that day — this time with the appearance of diagnostic code P0706, accompanied by hard shifts and an inability to shift into 3rd gear. The car fails to engage 3rd gear under normal driving conditions. I've tried driving in manual mode, but it does not display the current gear, which suggests a deeper transmission or control system issue. I'm seeking advice on potential causes and solutions.

Related fault codes
P0706
Comments (12)
Anonymous 2019-05-23 13:59

Also, when attempting to drive in manual mode, the vehicle doesn't show the current gear — this indicates a possible communication failure between the transmission and the instrument cluster.

Anonymous 2019-05-23 15:11

Potential causes for P0706 in a 2005 Acura TL include: - Faulty transmission range sensor - Misadjusted transmission range sensor - Open or shorted wiring harness for the transmission range sensor - Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM) For more details, refer to official diagnostic resources: https://www.p0706.com

Anonymous 2019-05-23 17:14

I ordered a replacement transmission range sensor today. It should arrive tomorrow — I'll update this thread with the results and whether it resolves the issue.

Anonymous 2019-05-25 15:22

I installed an OEM transmission range sensor, but unfortunately, the problem persists. A technician at Acura suggested that a faulty shift solenoid could be the root cause — they are now recommending a full transmission inspection. This is frustrating as the issue seems to stem from either electronic or mechanical components.

Anonymous 2019-05-26 08:50

For reference, see bbbind.com for an ECM/transmission range switch schematic. Without specific technical knowledge, the best approach is to verify power and ground connections at the transmission range sensor.

Anonymous 2019-05-27 03:33

Hi everyone — does anyone have any insight into what might be causing this issue in a 2005 Acura TL with P0706 and hard shifts?

Anonymous 2019-05-28 10:27

Thank you cj1 for the helpful link!

Anonymous 2019-05-28 12:19

Please confirm that all wiring connections are intact before replacing any components — a poor connection could mimic or cause symptoms like P0706 and gear engagement failure.

Anonymous 2019-05-28 15:19

Good point. Where is the Powertrain Control Module (ECM) located in a 2005 Acura TL?

Anonymous 2019-05-28 15:27

Never mind — I’ve found another explanation.

Anonymous 2019-06-05 05:56

Darkwave, today at 06:53 AM Update on my 2005 Acura TL issue: the root cause was a faulty Powertrain Control Module (ECU). After extensive troubleshooting, I confirmed it needed replacement. This fixed both P0706 and the hard shift issues.

Anonymous 2019-06-05 05:57

Special thanks to cj1 — those wiring diagrams were extremely helpful in diagnosing the issue and verifying connections.