P0715: Input/Turbine Speed Sensor A Circuit

What Does The P0715 Code Mean?

When I have encountered a diagnostic trouble code P0715, it has been due to the powertrain control module (PCM) detecting a malfunction in the circuit for the designated input (or turbine) speed sensor known as A. Input and turbine speed sensors are virtually identical in design. The difference is primarily with the descriptive terminology.

The A designation is typically reserved for OBD-II equipped vehicles that use multiple input or turbine speed sensors. Consult the manufacturer’s service manual for the location of the input/turbine sensor designated A.

The input/turbine speed sensor is usually an electromagnetic, 3-wire sensor used to monitor transmission input speed (recognized by the PCM as revolutions per minute or RPMs). The sensor is positioned near the rear of the torque converter (at the transmission input shaft) and is either mounted with a bolt/stud or threaded directly into the transmission case.

On the transmission main (or input) shaft, specially designed grooves (or a notched reluctor wheel) are present. The input shaft (or reluctor wheel) passes in close proximity to the end of the sensor; completing the electromagnetic circuit. As the grooves (or notches) pass by the sensor, the circuit is interrupted and an electronic pattern is formed. This pattern formation is received by the PCM as a waveform pattern that it further interprets as transmission input/turbine speed.

Transmission input/turbine speed is compared with engine RPM speed, percentage of engine load, transmission output speed, and vehicle speed to determine the desired input speed RPM. If the actual input/turbine speed fails to coincide with the desired input/turbine speed, a code will be stored and a malfunction lamp may be illuminated.

P0715 wiring diagram

What Are The Symptoms Of The P0715 Code?

Symptoms of a P0715 code may include:

• Harsh or erratic transmission shift points
• Failure of the transmission to shift
• Decreased fuel efficiency
• Speedometer (odometer) fluctuation
• Lack of speedometer (odometer) operation
• In some cases, when coming to a stop the engine may stall

What Are The Potential Causes Of The P0715 Code?

Potential causes for this code to set are:

• Defective input speed sensor
• Faulty output speed sensor
• Damaged, worn, or broken reluctor ring or shaft
• Bad transmission torque converter
• Loose, burned, or otherwise damaged wiring and/or connectors
• PCM failure or programming error

How Serious Is This P0715 Code?

In some instances, this code being stored will prompt the PCM to place the transmission in ‘limp-in’ mode. In this mode, the transmission will shift harshly. If you are presented with a P0715 and the transmission begins to shift irregularly, the problem must be addressed as soon as possible.

How Can You Fix The P0715 Code?

A good starting point is always to check for technical service bulletins (TSB) for your particular vehicle. Your issue may be a known issue with a known fix put out by the manufacturer and can save you time and money during diagnosis.

A suitable diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), a system wiring diagram, and possibly an oscilloscope will be helpful in diagnosing the P0715 code.

Skilled technicians usually begin with a visual inspection of system wiring and connectors. Repair or replace disconnected, corroded, burnt, or shorted parts as needed. Test the battery and inspect battery cables and cable ends. Remove corrosion and secure battery terminals as required.

Connect the scanner to the diagnostic port and retrieve all stored codes. Make a note of al stored codes for future reference. I also like to note freeze frame data, if available.

If both input sensor and output sensor codes are present, use the scanner data stream to determine which circuit is malfunctioning. Narrow the data stream to include only related data for more responsive data delivery.

When removing sensors, check for excessive metal debris on magnetic contacts. Remove excessive debris before reinstallation. When sensors are removed, inspect interruption grooves and/or reluctor wheel notches. Test individual sensors using the DVOM and following manufacturer’s specifications (found in the service manual or through All Data). Replace sensors that fail to comply with specs.

Disconnect related controllers before testing resistance and continuity with the DVOM. Failure to do so could cause controller damage. Test system circuits for shorted or open wiring. Repair or replace defective circuits. If all system circuits and sensors are in proper working order, suspect a faulty PCM or a PCM programming error.

Additional diagnostic notes:

• Excessive metallic debris (attracted to the electromagnetic sensor) has been known to cause erratic input/output speed sensor readings
• Use caution when removing sensors from the transmission case because transmission fluid may escape from the opening
• Sensor to reluctor clearance is critical on some applications; make sure that mounting surfaces/threaded holes are clear of obstruction

Recommended Parts

Below are some recommended auto parts to help you address the trouble code affecting your vehicle and get it running smoothly again:

>>> Reluctor Ring
>>> WORKPRO 582-piece Crimp Terminals, Wire Connectors, Heat Shrink Tube, Electrical Repair Kit
>>> ECU
>>> KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter
>>> MakerHawk LCD Handheld Digital Oscilloscope

Note: During the purchasing process, please check carefully whether the part you want to buy fits your car!

Check This Video For Reference

Reference Sources

P0715 Input/Turbine Speed Sensor A Circuit, OBD-Codes.