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Home / Diagnostic Decoder / Powertrain System / Code P0720
System: Powertrain (P-Code) Coverage: SAE Standard (Generic) Fault Family: output_shaft_speed_sensor_circuit

Code P0720: Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit

Diagnostic & Technical Explanation
Code P0720 (Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit) sets when the TCM loses, receives an implausible, or loses direction information from the transmission output shaft speed sensor used for shift scheduling and vehicle speed cross-check. Causes are a damaged reluctor wheel, debris at the sensor tip, a corroded connector, or chafed internal transmission wiring.

Probability-Ranked Repair Procedures (3 Ranked Fixes)

Rank #1

Inspect output shaft speed sensor connector

Easy DIY
Parts Estimate: $5.0–$20.0 USD Labor Estimate: 0.5 Shop Hours
  1. 1. Locate the sensor connector at the transmission tail housing/case
  2. 2. Disconnect and inspect for fluid intrusion/corrosion
  3. 3. Clean and reseat with a fresh seal
  4. 4. Clear the code and road test
Required Replacement Parts: 🔧 Dielectric grease
Rank #2

Replace output shaft speed sensor

Moderate DIY
Parts Estimate: $25.0–$90.0 USD Labor Estimate: 0.8 Shop Hours
  1. 1. Raise the vehicle and locate the sensor at the transmission tail housing
  2. 2. Remove its retaining bolt and withdraw the sensor, catching any fluid drip
  3. 3. Install the replacement sensor with a new O-ring, seated fully
  4. 4. Clear the code and confirm output speed tracks vehicle speed
Required Replacement Parts: 🔧 Output shaft speed sensor · 🔧 Sensor O-ring
Rank #3

Repair output shaft sensor wiring

Professional Required
Parts Estimate: $30.0–$150.0 USD Labor Estimate: 1.8 Shop Hours
  1. 1. Back-probe the sensor circuit at the TCM connector
  2. 2. Trace the internal/external harness for chafing
  3. 3. Repair or replace the affected harness section
  4. 4. Clear the code and verify a clean, correctly-directioned speed trace
Required Replacement Parts: 🔧 Internal transmission wiring harness section

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