Subaru Error Code P0700: How to Fix It

Medium 1-2 hours for diagnosis High Severity Verified June 2026
Error Code
P0700
Brand
Subaru
Product Type
automotive
Severity
High
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
1-2 hours for diagnosis
Subaru error code P0700 indicates a Transmission Control System (TCM) malfunction, meaning your vehicle's computer has detected a problem with the automatic transmission. This code serves as a gateway that requires further diagnosis to identify specific transmission issues through sub-codes stored in the TCM.
Ad

Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code P0700

  1. Safety First - Park and Prepare

    Never attempt transmission work on a hot engine or transmission. Hot transmission fluid can cause severe burns.
  2. Connect OBD2 Scanner

  3. Scan for All Codes

  4. Check Transmission Fluid Level and Condition

    Check fluid level only when transmission is at operating temperature and engine is running in park.
  5. Inspect Transmission Wiring and Connectors

    Disconnect the battery before handling any electrical connectors to prevent short circuits.
  6. Test Transmission Control Module Communication

  7. Clear Codes and Test Drive

    Do not drive aggressively during test drive. If transmission exhibits severe problems like no movement or harsh shifting, stop immediately.
  8. Analyze Results and Plan Repair

Parts You May Need

Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Shift solenoids
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission wiring harness
Check Price on Amazon
TCM (Transmission Control Module)
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Shift solenoids
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission wiring harness
Check Price on Amazon
TCM (Transmission Control Module)
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Shift solenoids
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission wiring harness
Check Price on Amazon
TCM (Transmission Control Module)
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Shift solenoids
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission wiring harness
Check Price on Amazon
TCM (Transmission Control Module)
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Shift solenoids
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission wiring harness
Check Price on Amazon
TCM (Transmission Control Module)
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Shift solenoids
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission wiring harness
Check Price on Amazon
TCM (Transmission Control Module)
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Shift solenoids
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission wiring harness
Check Price on Amazon
TCM (Transmission Control Module)
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission fluid
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission filter
Check Price on Amazon
Shift solenoids
Check Price on Amazon
Transmission wiring harness
Check Price on Amazon
TCM (Transmission Control Module)
Check Price on Amazon
Ad

When to Call a Professional

Call a professional if you find internal transmission codes indicating valve body problems, torque converter issues, or if the TCM itself has failed. Also seek professional help if you're uncomfortable working with automotive electrical systems or if the transmission requires fluid changes or internal component replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive my Subaru with P0700 error code?
You should avoid driving with P0700 until you determine the underlying cause. While the car may still move, continued driving could cause severe transmission damage and costly repairs.
What causes Subaru P0700 transmission error?
Common causes include faulty shift solenoids, wiring problems, low transmission fluid, TCM failure, internal transmission damage, or software glitches. The specific cause requires scanning for additional transmission codes.
How much does it cost to fix P0700 on a Subaru?
Repair costs range from $100-200 for simple fixes like fluid changes or wiring repairs, to $2000-4000 for major transmission rebuilds or TCM replacement, depending on the underlying problem.
Will disconnecting the battery clear P0700 code?
Disconnecting the battery may temporarily clear the code, but it will return if the underlying problem persists. This method also erases other important vehicle settings and is not recommended as a permanent fix.
Is P0700 covered under Subaru warranty?
P0700 may be covered under powertrain warranty if your Subaru is within the warranty period and the failure isn't due to neglect or abuse. Check with your Subaru dealer for specific warranty coverage details.