P0700 on Kia
Transmission Control System Malfunction
P0700 on Kia vehicles indicates transmission control system malfunction. Au7o has documented this code across 9 Kia models — most commonly on Amanti, Cadenza, Forte. P0700 is a general code indicating the transmission control module (TCM) has detected a fault somewhere in the transmission control system and has requested the check engine light be turned on. By itself it doesn't pinpoint the problem — it's an 'umbrella' code that tells you to look for additional, more specific transmission codes stored alongside it. The actual fault could be electrical, a sensor, a solenoid, or an internal transmission issue. You may notice harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, or the transmission going into a protective 'limp' mode. Typical repair costs on Kia range from $150 to $6,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0700
- •Stored companion transmission codes pointing to the real fault
- •Faulty shift solenoid or pressure control solenoid
- •Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid
- •Faulty transmission speed or input/output sensor
- •Wiring, connector, or ground problems at the transmission
- •Failing transmission control module (TCM)
- •Internal transmission mechanical wear or clutch problems
- •Valve body fault or sticking valves
P0700 on Kia by Model
Kia Amanti(1 issue)
- Automatic Transmission Failure (5-Speed)2004-2009
The 5-speed automatic transmission in the Kia Amanti is prone to premature failure, particularly affecting the torque converter, forward clutch pack, and valve body. The transmission was shared with the Hyundai XG350 platform and struggles with the 3.5L V6 engine torque output. Symptoms progress from harsh shifting to slipping to complete failure, typically between 80,000-120,000 miles. Regular ATF changes can extend life, but the transmission design has inherent durability limitations.
Kia Cadenza(1 issue)
- 6-Speed Automatic Transmission Hesitation and Hard Downshift2014-2020
The Cadenza's 6-speed automatic transmission (A6LF2) exhibits a hesitation or delayed response when accelerating from low speeds, particularly after coasting to a stop. The transmission seems to "hunt" for the right gear, causing a 1-2 second delay before power delivery. Hard downshifts also occur during passing maneuvers. Kia released multiple TCM software updates to address the shift calibration but many owners report the issue persists.
Kia Forte(1 issue)
- CVT Shudder and Hesitation Under Acceleration2019-2024
The IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission, Kia's name for their CVT) in the 2019-2024 Forte develops a shuddering sensation during light-to-moderate acceleration, particularly from stops and at speeds between 20-45 mph. The issue is caused by the CVT chain and pulley interface wearing irregularly. Kia has released multiple software updates to improve shift mapping and reduce the shudder sensation.
Kia K5(2 issues)
- 8-Speed DCT Electric Oil Pump Failure2021-2023
K5 vehicles equipped with the 2.5L turbocharged engine and 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission may experience electric oil pump failure within the transmission. A manufacturing error can cause the pump to fail, resulting in complete loss of vehicle power while driving. This creates a serious safety hazard, particularly at highway speeds.
- Transmission Control Unit (TCU) Software Fault Causing Harsh Upshifts or Limp Mode (8-Speed AT)2021-2024
K5 models equipped with the 8-speed conventional automatic transmission (paired with the 2.5T Turbo engine in higher trims) have generated complaints of harsh, jerky upshifts—particularly the 1-2 and 2-3 shifts—and in some cases the transmission entering limp mode (restricted to lower gears) after a fault is detected. This is distinct from the DCT shudder issue and specifically affects the hydraulic 8AT unit. TSBs from Kia/Hyundai on the shared 8AT platform have addressed TCU software logic for shift pressure and torque converter clutch engagement.
Kia Niro(1 issue)
- Dual-Clutch Transmission Judder (Hybrid)2017-2022
The 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) in the 1st generation Niro Hybrid (2017-2022) develops a juddering or shaking sensation when starting from a stop and during low-speed gear changes. The dry clutch pack wears and develops uneven friction surfaces, causing the shudder. This is most noticeable in stop-and-go traffic and typically appears between 25,000-40,000 miles. The issue is exacerbated by the frequent clutch engagement/disengagement required by the hybrid system.
Kia Optima(1 issue)
- 7-Speed DCT Transmission Clutch Judder2016-2020
Vehicles equipped with the 1.6L turbocharged engine and 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) may experience clutch judder, causing vibration and jerking during low-speed acceleration and when starting from a stop. The issue is particularly noticeable during cold starts and in stop-and-go traffic.
Kia Seltos(1 issue)
- CVT Hesitation and Jerking Under Load2021-2025
The Seltos equipped with the 2.0L engine and CVT (IVT) exhibits hesitation, jerking, and poor acceleration response, particularly when merging or climbing hills. The CVT struggles under load and can enter limp mode. Owners report the transmission feels sluggish compared to traditional automatics. Kia has released TCU software updates to improve response.
Kia Sorento(1 issue)
- DCT Transmission Oil Pump Failure (2.5T)2021-2022
The 2021-2022 Sorento with the 2.5L turbo engine and 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) can experience transmission oil pump failure due to a supplier production defect. The failed oil pump starves the transmission of lubrication, leading to sudden loss of drive power. NHTSA Recall 22V-826 covers approximately 65,000 Sorentos. Kia dealers inspect and replace the transmission if the oil pump is defective, plus reprogram the TCU with updated software.
Kia Stinger(1 issue)
- 8-Speed DCT Harsh Shifting and Delayed Response2018-2023
The 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission in the Stinger exhibits harsh low-speed shifts, delayed response when pulling away from stops, and occasional gear hunting on hills. The DCT clutch pack adapts over time but the adaptive learning can drift, leading to rough shifts. TCU software updates have improved shift quality. In rare cases, clutch pack replacement is needed.
Looking for P0700 on a different make?
View P0700 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0700 mean on Kia?▼
P0700 stands for "Transmission Control System Malfunction." P0700 is a general code indicating the transmission control module (TCM) has detected a fault somewhere in the transmission control system and has requested the check engine light be turned on. By itself it doesn't pinpoint the problem — it's an 'umbrella' code that tells you to look for additional, more specific transmission codes stored alongside it. The actual fault could be electrical, a sensor, a solenoid, or an internal transmission issue. You may notice harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, or the transmission going into a protective 'limp' mode. On Kia specifically, this code is documented across 9 models.
What causes P0700 on Kia vehicles?▼
Common causes on Kia: Stored companion transmission codes pointing to the real fault, Faulty shift solenoid or pressure control solenoid, Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid, Faulty transmission speed or input/output sensor, Wiring, connector, or ground problems at the transmission. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0700 on a Kia?▼
Repair costs on Kia range from $150 to $6,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Kia models have P0700 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0700 on 9 Kia models: Amanti, Cadenza, Forte, K5, Niro, Optima, Seltos, Sorento, Stinger.