Porsche PDK Transmission Distance/Speed Sensor Issues, OBD Fault Code Diagnosis, and Solutions
- Botong Auto Electronics
- Aug 22, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 4, 2025
Introduction to Porsche PDK Transmission
The Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK), Porsche's renowned double-clutch transmission. The ZF 7DT45 and 7DT70 are the primary models used in Porsche 911s, Boxsters, and Caymans from 2009 to 2016. While these models share many similarities, they do have variations in components and gear ratios, especially in the 911 Turbo models. Minor updates were introduced in 2013 for the 991.1/981.1 models, including additional cooling and sensor upgrades.
Common Sensor Problems with the Porsche PDK Transmission
Porsche PDK Transmission – Problem Symptoms
Difficulty of lack of response when shifting gears.
Unexpected gear changes while driving.
Hesitation or jerking during gear shifts.
Dashboard transmission warning light or message illuminates.
Decreased Vehicle Performance.
OBD fault codes recorded for the PDK
Although generally reliable, the PDK transmission can experience issues, particularly with internal sensors like the Shift Fork Position Sensor/Distance Sensor/Speed Sensor, not the mechanical components. Unfortunately, Porsche dealerships often recommend complete transmission replacements rather than more affordable repairs. This approach can be unnecessarily expensive, costing $25K or more depending on the PDK source.
Introduction to the Porsche Distance Sensor/Speed Sensor
The distance/displacement/position sensor is a crucial component of the Porsche PDK gearbox. Its primary function is to inform the control unit of the current positions of all four shift rods. The gearbox control unit continuously communicates with the sensor pack to ensure that gear shifts occur correctly. If the sensor fails, the control unit cannot function properly; it will remain in the currently selected gear, preventing any further shifts. Once the car comes to a stop, it will not allow the vehicle to drive again.
Understanding Porsche PDK Transmission OBD Fault Codes for Distance/Speed Sensor
Fault code entries for distance sensor
You might get faults like the following but not limited to:
P1731 P1732 P1733 P1734 P1735 P1736 P1737 P1738: Distance sensor information/shift rod faults
P17DX: 5V.......displacement sensor
If you get any of these faults, your displacement sensor is likely to be failing or failed. If you are uncertain, please refer to the actual data values (viewable via the PIWIS unit/system)
Fault code entries for speed sensor
You might get faults like the following but not limited to:
P173D – Speed sensor clutch 1, short circuit to B+ (we have not found that this means the sensor is dead)
P0730: Transmission monitoring symptom – incorrect gear ratio
P1743: Plausibility of transmission input shaft speed sensor clutch 1
P1744: Plausibility of transmission input shaft speed sensor clutch 2
P1745: Input shaft overspeed
0-Failure Aftermarket Porsche PDK Distance/Speed Sensor
To address one of the most common issues—Distance sensor/speed sensor failure—we offer a high-quality, cost-effective aftermarket Porsche PDK Shift Fork Position/Displacement Sensor 7DT45, 7DT70. This sensor is designed to fit Porsche models 911, Boxster, and Cayman, providing a reliable solution without needing an expensive full transmission replacement.
Understanding Other Porsche PDK Transmission OBD Fault Codes
Fault code entries for pressure sensor
You might get faults like the following but not limited to:
P0841, P0846 and P0871: Pressure sensor fault (measured value implausible)
P17B1 and P17B2: Clutch fault (activation pressure implausible)
P17B3 and P17B4: Clutch valve fault (valve pressure stays too high)
P17BB … to P17BE: Clutch fault (clutch cannot be opened)
Fault code entries for temperature sensor
You might get faults like the following but not limited to:
P0711: Transmission temperature sensor implausible
P172D: Transmission temperature sensor gradient fault
P17F0 … to P17F2: Transmission over temperature
Recommended Maintenance for Porsche PDK Transmission
Originally, Porsche recommended a maintenance cycle of 120,000 miles or 12 years for the PDK transmission. However, this proved to be problematic. Current recommendations, such as those for the 911 992, have halved the time and mileage to 60,000 miles or 6 years.
Many Porsche specialists now advocate for even more frequent maintenance, suggesting intervals of 40,000 miles or 4 years. Preventative maintenance is much more affordable than repairing or replacing the PDK transmission and can help prevent issues such as debris buildup, leaks, and blockages.
While maintenance won’t solve an existing transmission issue, it can certainly prevent some of the problems that arise with the PDK. If you’ve purchased a used Porsche and are unsure of the last PDK service date, it’s wise to get the maintenance done as a precaution.
If you have any questions about your Porsche PDK Transmission Sensor, please contact us at botongautoelectronics@gmail.com.