AutoCodes – Generic – P1720

P1720 Code - Vehicle Speed Meter Circuit Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) receives two vehicle speed sensor signals via the Control Area Network (CAN) communication line. Common causes include VDC/TCS/ABS to ECM circuit harness is open or shorted, TCM to ECM circuit harness is open or shorted, VDC/TCS/ABS to ECM circuit connectors. 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: P1720 indicates Vehicle Speed Meter Circuit Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include VDC/TCS/ABS to ECM circuit harness is open or shorted, TCM to ECM circuit harness is open or shorted, VDC/TCS/ABS to ECM circuit connectors.
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.

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Code Popularity 46,552

How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 11, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1720 Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) receives two vehicle speed sensor signals via the Control Area Network (CAN) communication line. One is sent from Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) / Traction Control System (TCS) / Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) control unit, and the other is from Transmission Control Module (TCM). ECM uses these two signals for engine control.

OBDII Code P1720 - Vehicle Speed Meter Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — P1720 Code - Vehicle Speed Meter Circuit Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1720?

VDC/TCS/ABS to ECM circuit harness is open or shorted
TCM to ECM circuit harness is open or shorted
VDC/TCS/ABS to ECM circuit connectors
TCM to ECM circuit connectors
Faulty revolution sensor

How to Fix the DTC P1720?

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 P1720 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 P1720 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1720 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1720 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P1720 BMW — CAN Timeout Control Module
P1720 Ford — Vehicle Speed Meter Circuit Malfunction
P1720 Infiniti — Vehicle Speed Meter Circuit Malfunction
P1720 Mazda — Vehicle Speed Sensor No Signal
P1720 Nissan — Vehicle Speed Meter Circuit Malfunction

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 P1720 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P1720 (Vehicle Speed Meter Circuit Malfunction)?

Common symptoms include erratic speedometer readings, inoperative speedometer, and illumination of the Check Engine Light.

2. What can cause the OBDII code P1720 to trigger?

Possible causes include a faulty vehicle speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the speed sensor circuit, or a malfunctioning instrument cluster.

3. How serious is the P1720 code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable with this code, it is important to address it promptly to ensure accurate speed readings and prevent potential related issues.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of the P1720 code?

Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool to retrieve the code and checking the vehicle speed sensor, wiring, and connectors for any signs of damage or malfunction.

5. Can I repair the P1720 code myself?

Depending on your skill level and access to tools, you may be able to address this code by replacing the vehicle speed sensor or repairing any damaged wiring or connectors. However, professional help may be needed for more complex issues.

6. Does the P1720 code affect vehicle performance?

While the code itself may not directly impact performance, it can lead to inaccurate speed readings and affect other vehicle systems that rely on speed data for proper operation.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair the P1720 code?

The cost of repairing the P1720 code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from relatively inexpensive for simple fixes like replacing a sensor to more costly for complex repairs involving wiring or instrument cluster issues.

8. Can driving with the P1720 code cause further damage to the vehicle?

Continuing to drive with this code may not cause immediate harm to the vehicle, but it is best to address it promptly to prevent potential safety risks and ensure accurate speed monitoring.

9. Are there any temporary fixes for the P1720 code?

Temporary fixes such as clearing the code with a scan tool may temporarily turn off the Check Engine Light, but it is crucial to address the underlying issue to prevent recurrence.

10. How long does it take to repair the P1720 code?

The repair time for the P1720 code can vary depending on the cause of the issue and the complexity of the repairs needed. Simple fixes may take less time, while more involved repairs could require additional diagnostics and labor.