What this code means
P0705 may mean the Electronic Shift Module cannot reliably interpret the shifter position input.
What the vehicle may do
- Gear selection may not be available.
- The vehicle may not respond normally to shift commands.
Possible fault areas
- Possible ESM internal circuitry or processor concern.
- Possible shifter position sensing concern inside the ESM path.
- Possible connector, terminal, or harness connection concern.
Diagnostic path
Code overview
On this Ram 1500 with the 8HP75 transmission, P0705 is a PRNDL input fault in the Electronic Shift Module path. In plain terms, the module may not be able to trust the shifter position signal. The vehicle may respond by not allowing gear selection, so treat this as a fault that can affect basic shift command operation. The broad areas in play are the ESM electronics, the shifter position sensing inside that module, and the related connector and terminal condition. Before getting into the code path, start with the basic system checks and follow a structured diagnostic approach.
Confirm the code and capture conditions
First, use the scan tool to read codes in all electronic control units and record what is present. Also save the scan report or record the environmental data tied to the fault. Then erase all codes, turn the ignition off for a minimum of 10.0 seconds, turn the ignition back on, and operate the vehicle under the same captured conditions that set the fault. This diagnostic runs continuously when the ESM is awake, so the goal here is to reproduce the operating conditions and see whether P0705 comes back. If it returns, move on to the connector and harness checks. If it does not return, treat it as an intermittent condition and then run the ESM verification test.
Check the ESM-related connections
If P0705 returns, disconnect the ESM harness connectors, any related in-line connectors if equipped, and the related component connectors. Inspect the connectors and all male and female terminals carefully. Look for poor connector installation, damaged locks, corrosion, signs of water intrusion, seal damage if equipped, bent terminals, discoloration from overheating, and terminals pushed back in the connector cavity. Perform a terminal drag test on each connector terminal to confirm proper terminal tension. Repair any connector or terminal condition you find. Then reconnect the ESM connectors, any in-line connectors, and the related component connectors, making sure everything is fully seated and the locks are fully engaged.
Retest after connector work
After the connection check, erase the codes again. Use the recorded event and environmental data, along with the monitor and set conditions, to operate the vehicle under the conditions that set the fault. Then read ESM codes with the scan tool. If P0705 returns after those connector and terminal checks, replace the Electronic Shift Module and then run the ESM verification test. If the code does not return, run the ESM verification test and consider the test complete.
Takeaway
The key on P0705 is to prove whether the fault is repeatable, inspect the ESM-related connector and terminal integrity before condemning the module, and always finish by verifying that the code stays gone. For more diagnostic training, visit stepdiagnostics.com.
Final check
Confirm the code under captured conditions, check the ESM-related connections carefully, then verify that the code stays gone.
For more guided automotive diagnostics, visit STEP Diagnostics.