What Does P0794 Mean?
The intermediate shaft speed sensor A is producing intermittent signal dropouts. The TCM detects periods where the signal is present and functional, followed by sudden losses or erratic readings. This pattern strongly suggests a connection issue — loose connector, frayed wire, or a sensor with an intermittent internal fault that is temperature or vibration sensitive.
Common Causes
35%
Loose or corroded connector at the intermediate shaft speed sensor
25%
Intermittent wire break in the sensor circuit (flexion fatigue)
20%
Sensor with temperature-sensitive internal failure
12%
Reluctor ring with debris buildup causing periodic signal loss
8%
Marginal TCM connection at sensor input pins
Diagnostic Steps
1
Check freeze frame data to identify temperature, gear, and RPM conditions when the intermittent fault sets.
2
Wiggle the sensor connector and harness while monitoring the sensor PID in live data to provoke the dropout.
3
Inspect the sensor connector for spread terminals, corrosion, or transmission fluid contamination.
4
Measure sensor resistance while tapping and flexing the sensor body to detect internal intermittent opens.
5
Check for fluid in the connector — a leaking sensor O-ring can wick transmission fluid up the wiring and corrode terminals.
6
If the fault is temperature-sensitive, use a heat gun on the sensor while monitoring — failure when hot confirms internal degradation.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $650
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The intermediate shaft speed sensor A is producing intermittent signal dropouts. The TCM detects periods where the signal is present and functional, followed by sudden losses or erratic readings. This pattern strongly suggests a connection issue — loose connector, frayed wire, or a sensor with an in...
The most common cause of P0794 (Intermediate Shaft Speed Sensor A Circuit Intermittent) is: Loose or corroded connector at the intermediate shaft speed sensor
Typical repair costs for P0794 range from $150 to $650, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
The vehicle may experience momentary harsh shifts, gear hunting, or brief limp mode episodes when the signal drops out. This can be unpredictable and startling. Limit driving to necessary trips and avoid heavy traffic or high-speed situations until repaired.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0794 to identify the root cause.
OBDHut Mobile App
Scan codes directly from your car with the OBDHut app.
Coming Soon
Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Automatic Transmission
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
A quality scan tool helps you read codes, view live data, and clear faults.
