Output Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction
The P0720 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Output Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction. This is a serious severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Yes, but fix soon
- DIY difficulty
- medium
- Estimated cost
- $20-$80 for speed sensor; $80-$200 labor
Read and clear transmission codes. Many trans codes are caused by low or burnt fluid -- check level and color before assuming the worst.
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Basic scanners only read engine codes. This reads transmission, ABS, and airbag too.
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Common Symptoms
- Incorrect speedometer reading or no reading
- Erratic transmission shifting
- ABS and traction control lights may illuminate
- Check Engine Light on
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Failed output shaft speed sensor Very High
- Metal debris on sensor tip Moderate
- Damaged wiring to output speed sensor Moderate
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Monitor output speed sensor on live data. Should track vehicle speed proportionally.
-
Inspect sensor for metal debris accumulation on the sensing tip.
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Test sensor resistance and compare to spec.
-
Check wiring between sensor and TCM.
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing P0720 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2003-2016 Nissan Altima/Sentra CVT Easy DIY
The output speed sensor on Nissan CVTs fails at a high rate due to heat soak from the CVT running hot. The sensor is on the lower portion of the transmission near the output shaft. Replace with OEM Nissan 31935-8E006. Check the CVT fluid condition -- dark or burnt fluid indicates the CVT may need a flush.
Labor: 0.5-1 hour2001-2012 Honda Accord/Civic Automatic Easy DIY
The countershaft (output) speed sensor on Honda automatics is located on the front of the transmission. It fails from heat and vibration. Replace with Dorman 917-672. The sensor is a 10mm bolt and a connector -- a 15-minute job. Refill any lost ATF with Honda DW-1 fluid only.
Labor: 15-30 minutes2005-2016 Chrysler 300/Dodge Charger 5-Speed Auto Easy DIY
The output speed sensor on the NAG1 (W5A580) 5-speed automatic reads erratically or drops out. Located on the rear of the transmission near the output shaft. Replace with Mopar 52108308AB. Also check the wiring connector for ATF contamination from a leaking trans cooler line fitting.
Labor: 0.5-1 hourFrequently Asked Questions
Will P0720 cause the speedometer to stop working?
On some vehicles, the speedometer is driven by the output speed sensor signal. A failed sensor will cause an inaccurate or dead speedometer. On others, the ABS wheel speed sensors drive the speedometer independently.
Sources
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
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