Transmission Position Sensor (Switch) Repair Costs
Range/Neutral Position Switch Replacement
Labor time: 1-2 hours
Labor cost: $125-250
Parts cost: $75-150
Total estimated cost: $200-400
Output Speed Sensor Replacement
Labor time: 1-1.5 hours
Labor cost: $125-187.50
Parts cost: $50-125
Total estimated cost: $175-312.50
Input Speed Sensor Replacement
Labor time: 1-1.5 hours
Labor cost: $125-187.50
Parts cost: $45-120
Total estimated cost: $170-307.50
Multi-Function Switch Replacement
Labor time: 1.5-2.5 hours
Labor cost: $187.50-312.50
Parts cost: $100-200
Total estimated cost: $287.50-512.50
*Note: Prices may vary based on vehicle make/model and local market conditions. Additional diagnostic fees may apply if extensive troubleshooting is required. Parts costs are approximate and can vary by manufacturer and availability.
Diagnostic Fee:$125 (Applied to repair cost if work is performed)
Transmission Position Sensor (Switch) Repair Guide
1. Range/Neutral Position Switch
Common Symptoms:Incorrect gear indication, no start in Park or Neutral, no reverse lights
Repair Steps:
- Verify the issue using a diagnostic scanner to confirm position sensor malfunction
- Raise and secure vehicle on lift
- Locate the range switch on transmission (usually mounted on side of transmission case)
- Remove electrical connector and mounting bolts
- Remove old switch assembly
- Install new switch, ensuring proper alignment with shift linkage
- Adjust switch position according to manufacturer specifications
- Reconnect electrical connector
- Test all gear positions and verify proper operation
2. Digital Transmission Range Sensor
Common Symptoms:Check Engine light, erratic shift patterns, incorrect gear display
Repair Steps:
- Connect diagnostic tool to verify DTR sensor fault codes
- Disconnect vehicle battery
- Remove transmission pan (if necessary for access)
- Disconnect sensor electrical connector
- Remove mounting screws/bolts
- Clean mounting surface
- Install new sensor using new gasket if required
- Reconnect electrical connector
- Refill transmission fluid if pan was removed
- Clear fault codes and perform relearn procedure if required
3. Manual Shift Position Sensor
Common Symptoms:Manual shift mode not working, incorrect gear indication
Repair Steps:
- Perform diagnostic scan to confirm sensor failure
- Remove necessary interior trim pieces for access
- Disconnect electrical connector from sensor
- Remove mounting hardware
- Extract old sensor
- Install new sensor
- Verify proper alignment with shift mechanism
- Reconnect electrical connector
- Reinstall trim pieces
- Test all shift positions
Important Notes:
- Always refer to vehicle-specific repair manual for exact procedures
- Some sensors require specific calibration after installation
- Ensure proper transmission fluid level after any transmission-related repair
- Test drive vehicle to confirm proper operation in all gears
Average repair time: 1-3 hours depending on vehicle make/model and sensor type
Understanding Transmission Position Sensors (Switches)
Park Position Sensor/Switch (P)
This sensor detects when the transmission is in Park position. It's crucial for vehicle safety as it ensures the transmission is fully engaged in Park before allowing the key to be removed from the ignition. It also communicates with the vehicle's computer to enable starting and helps prevent unintended vehicle movement.
Reverse Position Sensor/Switch (R)
The Reverse sensor monitors when the transmission is shifted into Reverse. It triggers the backup lights, reverse camera (if equipped), and alerts the vehicle's computer system to adjust engine performance parameters for reverse operation. This sensor is essential for safe backing maneuvers.
Neutral Position Sensor/Switch (N)
This sensor identifies when the transmission is in Neutral position. It's important for safety interlocks and ensures proper transmission operation. The neutral sensor helps prevent damage by confirming the transmission is truly in neutral before allowing certain operations, like towing or push-starting.
Drive Position Sensor/Switch (D)
The Drive position sensor confirms when the transmission is engaged in Drive. It communicates with the vehicle's computer to enable normal forward driving operation and helps manage transmission shift patterns. This sensor is crucial for proper automatic transmission function and optimal gear selection.
Manual/Sport Mode Position Sensor
Found in vehicles with manual shift capability, this sensor detects when the transmission is in manual or sport mode. It allows for driver-controlled gear selection and adjusts the transmission's shift parameters for a more engaging driving experience.
Low Gear Position Sensor (L or 1)
This sensor monitors when the transmission is placed in low gear. It's important for situations requiring maximum power or engine braking, such as climbing steep hills or descending grades. The sensor helps prevent transmission damage by ensuring proper gear engagement.
Range Sensor
The Range sensor is a comprehensive unit that monitors the overall position of the gear selector. It combines the functions of individual position sensors into one unit, providing the transmission control module with accurate information about gear selector position at all times.
Note: Not all vehicles will have every type of position sensor, as configurations vary by manufacturer and transmission type.
Common Failure Symptoms of Transmission Position Sensor (TPS) Malfunction
Transmission Position Sensor (Switch) - Signs of Failure & Maintenance Guide
Common Signs of Failure
1. Check Engine Light
One of the first indicators of a failing transmission position sensor is an illuminated check engine light on your dashboard.
2. Incorrect Gear Position Display
The gear indicator on your dashboard shows the wrong gear position compared to where your shifter actually is.
3. Vehicle Won't Start
Due to safety features, a faulty sensor might prevent the vehicle from starting, especially if it can't detect that the transmission is in Park or Neutral.
4. Erratic Shifting
The transmission may shift roughly or at inappropriate times because the computer is receiving incorrect position information.
5. Stuck in One Gear
The vehicle might become stuck in a single gear or fail to shift properly due to incorrect position readings.
Maintenance Schedule
Regular Inspection:
The transmission position sensor typically doesn't have a specific replacement interval but should be inspected during routine transmission service (every 30,000-60,000 miles).
Preventative Maintenance:
- Visual inspection every 30,000 miles
- Check electrical connections during regular transmission service
- Clean sensor connections if accessible during maintenance
Replacement Guidelines:
Replace the sensor when:
- Diagnostic tests confirm sensor failure
- During major transmission work
- If showing signs of physical damage or corrosion
Note: Specific maintenance intervals may vary by vehicle make and model. Always consult your vehicle's owner manual for manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
