P0700 on Volvo
Transmission Control System Malfunction
P0700 on Volvo vehicles indicates transmission control system malfunction. Au7o has documented this code across 7 Volvo models — most commonly on 740, 850, 940. 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 Volvo range from $200 to $6,000, 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 Volvo by Model
Volvo 740(1 issue)
- Automatic Transmission Overdrive Solenoid Failure1990-1992
The AW70/71 automatic transmission overdrive solenoid fails, causing loss of overdrive (4th gear). The transmission also develops governor issues causing erratic shifting.
Volvo 850(1 issue)
- AW50-42 Automatic Transmission Shudder1993-1997
The Volvo 850 automatic transmission (Aisin-Warner AW50-42) develops torque converter shudder during light acceleration and lockup. The valve body solenoids wear and the torque converter clutch material degrades, causing vibration.
Volvo 940(1 issue)
- AW30-43 Transmission Overdrive and Shift Issues1991-1998
The AW30-43 automatic transmission develops overdrive lockout, harsh shifts, and eventually complete failure. The solenoid and valve body are common failure points.
Volvo 960(1 issue)
- ZF 4HP22 Automatic Transmission Limp Mode1992-1997
The Volvo 960 with the ZF 4HP22 automatic transmission develops electronic control issues that trigger limp mode (stuck in 3rd gear). The transmission control module connections corrode and internal solenoids wear.
Volvo S70(1 issue)
- AW50-42 Automatic Transmission Failure1998-2000
Like the 850, the S70 shares the Aisin-Warner AW50-42 automatic transmission that develops internal failures. The valve body, solenoids, and torque converter are common failure points, especially in turbocharged models.
Volvo XC70(1 issue)
- Aisin AW55-50/51SN Transmission Failure and Solenoid Issues2001-2012
The Aisin AW55-50SN and AW55-51SN automatic transmissions used in the XC70 develop solenoid failures and internal clutch wear, typically between 100,000-150,000 miles. The transmission solenoids (particularly the SL1 and SL2 linear solenoids) lose calibration and stick, causing harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and slipping. The valve body accumulates wear debris that causes erratic shifting. In severe cases, the forward or reverse clutch packs burn out, requiring a complete rebuild or replacement. Regular fluid changes significantly extend transmission life.
Volvo XC90(1 issue)
- GM 4T65E Transmission Failure2003-2005
The 2003-2005 XC90 with the T6 engine uses a GM 4T65E transmission that is prone to failure. The transmission was designed for lower-torque applications and struggles with the T6's power. Overheating and internal component failure are common.
Looking for P0700 on a different make?
View P0700 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0700 mean on Volvo?▼
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 Volvo specifically, this code is documented across 7 models.
What causes P0700 on Volvo vehicles?▼
Common causes on Volvo: 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 Volvo?▼
Repair costs on Volvo range from $200 to $6,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Volvo models have P0700 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0700 on 7 Volvo models: 740, 850, 940, 960, S70, XC70, XC90.