P0720 on Lincoln
Output Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction
P0720 on Lincoln vehicles indicates output speed sensor circuit malfunction. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Lincoln model — most commonly on Aviator. 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 Lincoln by Model
Lincoln Aviator(1 issue)
- 10R80 Automatic Transmission Loose Bolt / Park Failure2022-2025
The Ford 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission used in the Aviator can have a loose or missing park pawl/output bolt that prevents the transmission from securely engaging Park. If the vehicle is not held by Park, it can roll away even with the shifter in Park, creating a crash and injury risk. This was serious enough to trigger a federal recall covering 2022-2023 Aviators, and a separate 2025 recall addressed incorrect main control valve bodies causing reverse-gear failure or unexpected forward movement.
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View P0720 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0720 mean on Lincoln?▼
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 Lincoln specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0720 on Lincoln vehicles?▼
Common causes on Lincoln: 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 Lincoln?▼
Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause and specific Lincoln model.
Which Lincoln models have P0720 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0720 on 1 Lincoln model: Aviator.