AutoCodes – Ford – P0720 2008 Ford Fusion

P0720 2008 Ford Fusion Code - Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Output Shaft Speed (OSS) Sensor provides the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with information about the rotational speed of an output shaft. Common causes include Faulty Output Speed Sensor (OSS), Output Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Output Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0720 2008 Ford Fusion indicates Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Output Speed Sensor (OSS), Output Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Output Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 16,614
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 13, 2020
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Code P0720 2008 Ford Fusion Description

The Output Shaft Speed (OSS) Sensor provides the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with information about the rotational speed of an output shaft. The PCM uses the information to control and diagnose powertrain behavior. In some applications, the sensor is also used as the source of vehicle speed. The sensor may be physically located in different places on the vehicle, depending upon the specific application. The design of each speed sensor is unique and depends on which powertrain control feature uses the information that is generated. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set if the PCM detects an OSS sensor circuit malfunction.
OBDII Code P0720 2008 Ford Fusion - Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
P0720 2008 Ford Fusion Code - Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0720 2008 Ford Fusion?

  • Faulty Output Speed Sensor (OSS)
  • Output Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Output Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P0720 2008 Ford Fusion?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0720 2008 Ford Fusion code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0720 2008 Ford Fusion code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0720 2008 Ford Fusion code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0720 2008 Ford Fusion Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0720 on a 2008 Ford Fusion?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P0720 include erratic or non-functional speedometer readings, harsh shifting or failure to shift gears, and an illuminated check engine light.

2. What does the OBDII code P0720 indicate on a 2008 Ford Fusion?

The OBDII code P0720 indicates a malfunction in the output shaft speed sensor circuit, specifically related to the speed sensor located on the transmission.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0720 on a 2008 Ford Fusion?

Possible causes of OBDII code P0720 include a faulty output shaft speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the speed sensor circuit, or issues with the transmission control module.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0720 on my 2008 Ford Fusion?

Diagnosing OBDII code P0720 involves using a scan tool to retrieve the trouble codes, checking the output shaft speed sensor and its circuit for any visible damage, and testing the sensor's resistance and output signal.

5. Can I continue driving my 2008 Ford Fusion with OBDII code P0720?

It is not recommended to continue driving your Ford Fusion with OBDII code P0720 as it can lead to further transmission damage and potentially unsafe driving conditions.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0720 on my 2008 Ford Fusion?

Repairing OBDII code P0720 involves replacing the faulty output shaft speed sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, and clearing the trouble codes with a scan tool.

7. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P0720 on a 2008 Ford Fusion without making repairs?

Resetting OBDII code P0720 without addressing the underlying issue will not solve the problem, as the code is likely to reappear once the vehicle is driven and the fault is detected again.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0720 on a 2008 Ford Fusion?

While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to replace the output shaft speed sensor themselves, diagnosing and repairing the root cause of OBDII code P0720 may require professional expertise and specialized tools.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0720 on a 2008 Ford Fusion?

The cost of repairing OBDII code P0720 on a 2008 Ford Fusion can vary depending on the extent of the damage, the parts needed for replacement, and whether the repair is done by a professional mechanic or DIY enthusiast.

10. Can OBDII code P0720 on a 2008 Ford Fusion cause other issues if left unresolved?

If left unresolved, OBDII code P0720 can lead to further transmission problems, poor vehicle performance, and potential safety hazards while driving. It is essential to address this issue promptly.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0720 2008 Ford Fusion OBDII Code

  • I'm looking for a P0715 Code page for the '08 Ford Fusion 4Cyl. I could only find it for Make (Ford) but not specific to Fusion. I am looking for the location of the Speed Sensor location for this error. I believe it is the Turbine Shaft Sensor, is that correct? Thank you for your help.

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