P0720 on Kia
Output Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction
P0720 on Kia vehicles indicates output speed sensor circuit malfunction. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Kia model — most commonly on Optima. 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. Typical repair costs on Kia range from $250 to $2,800, depending on the specific model and root cause.
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 Kia by Model
Kia Optima(1 issue)
- Automatic Transmission Speed Sensor and Shift Failure2001-2002
Complaints show a recurring pattern of automatic transmission malfunction on early Optimas, including hesitation, refusal to go into gear, harsh downshifts, and limp-home operation. Several reports specifically mention input and output speed sensor failure causing the transmission to drop from 4th gear and shift only between lower gears.
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View P0720 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0720 mean on Kia?▼
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 Kia specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0720 on Kia vehicles?▼
Common causes on Kia: 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 Kia?▼
Repair costs on Kia range from $250 to $2,800, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Kia models have P0720 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0720 on 1 Kia model: Optima.