P0716 Code: Input/Turbine Speed Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance

What the P0716 code means

The input speed sensor (also called the turbine speed sensor) measures how fast the input shaft of the transmission turns, after the torque converter. With it, the computer works out torque converter slip and the gear ratio in each gear.

The sensor generates pulses whose frequency depends on the speed or the quantity being measured. A range fault means the sensor is measuring, but wrongly, or that there is a real abnormal condition. That is what sets the P0716 code.

Without this signal, the computer cannot verify the gear ratios and puts the transmission in limp mode, usually in a fixed gear. Metal shavings that stick to the magnet of the sensor are a frequent cause of wrong readings. See the sensor guide to learn how to test it.

This kind of fault does not usually get solved with a multimeter, because electrically everything looks right. You have to compare what the part says with reality: with a gauge, a thermometer, a tachometer, or by commanding the component with the scan tool and watching whether the physical result matches the command.

P0716 code symptoms

• Check engine light on.
• Transmission in limp mode.
• The transmission does not shift or stays in a fixed gear.
• Harsh shifts.

Likely causes of the P0716 code

1. Degraded or miscalibrated sensor that gives believable but wrong readings.
2. A real abnormal condition, where the system is actually working outside of normal.
3. High resistance in the connector from corrosion, which shifts the reading.
4. Damaged or blocked port, hose or tone wheel, depending on the sensor type.

How to diagnose the P0716 code step by step

1. Read the sensor value on the scan tool and compare it with what is expected.
2. Inspect the connector for corrosion, water and loose pins.
3. Check power and ground with the key on: a correct reference and less than 0.1 volt drop on the ground.
4. Measure the signal with the connector plugged in and see whether it changes with the condition.
5. Do a wiggle test of the wiring with the scan tool in graph mode.
6. Check the continuity of each wire back to the computer (under 1 ohm).
7. Remove the sensor and clean its tip. Metal shavings distort the signal.

How to fix the P0716 code

• Repair the connector or the wiring.
• Replace the sensor if the tests confirm it is bad.
• Correct the real condition if there is one.
• Clear the P0716 code and verify with a road test.

Technical reference data

• Inductive sensor (2 wires) or Hall effect sensor (3 wires).
• Reference values only: check the manufacturer data for your vehicle.

Brand-specific notes

The source reports this code as frequent on three transmission families.

P0716 on Aisin

Frequent on Aisin transmissions. Pull the sensor and check its tip for metal shavings.

P0716 on Jatco

Frequent on Jatco transmissions. Pull the sensor and check its tip for metal shavings.

P0716 on GM 4L60/4L65

Frequent on the GM 4L60 and 4L65 transmissions. Pull the sensor and check its tip for metal shavings.

Frequently asked questions about P0716