Automatic transmissions shift by filling and releasing clutches or brakes, the friction elements, and the controller learns how long each one takes to apply. P2700 is set when element A engages too slowly, too quickly or not plausibly compared with the commanded shift. Which part A is depends on the gearbox. Ford's 2012 OBD summary notes that its newer units replaced these clutch-level codes with solenoid stuck on/off codes for service, yet Ford still uses P2700: bulletin 16-0057 links it with P0751 and P0730 on TorqShift units built up to 15 December 2015 in E-Series, Super Duty and F-53/F-59 chassis and renews the cylinder of the coast clutch together with its one-way clutch. On Roush's propane Ford chassis the code is MIL on the E-450 and non-MIL on others. Harsh or slipping shifts are typical.
Medium severity. Can I keep driving?Drive gently to a repair shop. If it slips, you hear clunks, or it loses its gears, do not keep driving.
Symptoms
- Harsh, delayed or slipping shifts involving clutch A
- Check engine or transmission warning light on
- Incorrect gear ratio codes stored at the same time
Most likely causes
- Worn or damaged clutch A components, such as a cylinder, piston seal or one-way clutch
- Sticking valve or solenoid in the main control valve body
- Low, aged or incorrect transmission fluid
- Adaptive shift values not relearned after repair or software update
What to check, in order
Start with the simplest. You can tick off each step.
Good to know
- It can trigger limp mode.
- It affects emissions.
What each character of P2700 means
- P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
- 2: Generic code: same on every make
- 7: Transmission
- 00: Specific fault in that system
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with code P2700?
Drive gently to a repair shop. If it slips, you hear clunks, or it loses its gears, do not keep driving.
What causes code P2700?
The most common causes are: worn or damaged clutch A components, such as a cylinder, piston seal or one-way clutch; sticking valve or solenoid in the main control valve body; low, aged or incorrect transmission fluid.
Related codes
- P2701Transmission Friction Element B Apply Time Range/Performance
- P2702Transmission Friction Element C Apply Time Range/Performance
- P2703Transmission Friction Element D Apply Time Range/Performance
- P2704Transmission Friction Element E Apply Time Range/Performance
- P2705Transmission Friction Element F Apply Time Range/Performance
- P0751Shift Solenoid A Performance/Stuck Off
- P0730Incorrect Gear Ratio
Sources
- static.nhtsa.gov: MC 10183758 9999
- newtonnet.co.uk: fordobd2012
- static.nhtsa.gov: MC 10184638 0001
- roushcleantech.com: Roush CleanTech Diagnostics Manual DA 8.5.18
Values and procedures vary by manufacturer. If it affects brakes, steering, fuel or high voltage, see a professional. Updated: 2026-11-04. How we build these pages.