P0720 on Ford
Output Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction
P0720 on Ford vehicles indicates output speed sensor circuit malfunction. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Ford model — most commonly on F-150. P0720 indicates a malfunction in the transmission output speed sensor circuit. The output speed sensor measures how fast the transmission's output shaft is turning, which the computer uses to calculate vehicle speed, control shift timing, and manage torque converter lockup. When the signal is missing or implausible, the transmission may shift harshly, get stuck in one gear (limp mode), or the speedometer may read incorrectly. The fault is usually in the sensor, its wiring, or the connector, though internal transmission issues can also be responsible.
Common Causes of P0720
- •Failed output (vehicle) speed sensor
- •Damaged wiring, connector, or corrosion in the sensor circuit
- •Metal debris on the sensor tip or damaged reluctor ring
- •Open or short in the signal circuit
- •Low or contaminated transmission fluid affecting components
- •Poor ground or reference voltage to the sensor
- •Faulty transmission control module (TCM/PCM)
P0720 on Ford by Model
Ford F-150(1 issue)
- 6R80 Molded Leadframe Output-Speed-Sensor Extended Coverage2011-2013
Ford Customer Satisfaction Program 19N01 covered certain 2011-2013 F-150 trucks with a 6R80 transmission. A failure of the output shaft speed sensor within the molded leadframe can illuminate the malfunction indicator or wrench lamp and store P0720, P0722, P0731, and/or P1500. The original program provided time- and mileage-limited extended coverage, so current eligibility must be verified.
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View P0720 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0720 mean on Ford?▼
P0720 stands for "Output Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction." P0720 indicates a malfunction in the transmission output speed sensor circuit. The output speed sensor measures how fast the transmission's output shaft is turning, which the computer uses to calculate vehicle speed, control shift timing, and manage torque converter lockup. When the signal is missing or implausible, the transmission may shift harshly, get stuck in one gear (limp mode), or the speedometer may read incorrectly. The fault is usually in the sensor, its wiring, or the connector, though internal transmission issues can also be responsible. On Ford specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0720 on Ford vehicles?▼
Common causes on Ford: Failed output (vehicle) speed sensor, Damaged wiring, connector, or corrosion in the sensor circuit, Metal debris on the sensor tip or damaged reluctor ring, Open or short in the signal circuit, Low or contaminated transmission fluid affecting components. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0720 on a Ford?▼
Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause and specific Ford model.
Which Ford models have P0720 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0720 on 1 Ford model: F-150.