P1720 Ford 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 Faulty Vehicle Speed Meter, Vehicle Speed Meter harness is open or shorted, Vehicle Speed Meter 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
- P1720 Ford indicates Vehicle Speed Meter Circuit Malfunction.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Meter, Vehicle Speed Meter harness is open or shorted, Vehicle Speed Meter 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.
Code P1720 Ford Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1720 Ford?
- Faulty Vehicle Speed Meter
- Vehicle Speed Meter harness is open or shorted
- Vehicle Speed Meter circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC P1720 Ford?
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 Ford 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about P1720 Ford Code
1. What does the OBD-II code P1720 mean on a Ford vehicle?
P1720 indicates a malfunction in the vehicle speed meter circuit, which monitors and communicates the vehicle's speed to the engine control module (ECM).
2. What are the common symptoms of code P1720 in a Ford?
Symptoms may include inaccurate speedometer readings, erratic transmission shifting, reduced fuel efficiency, or the Check Engine Light being illuminated.
3. What causes code P1720 in Ford vehicles?
Common causes include a faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), damaged wiring or connectors in the speed sensor circuit, or issues with the ECM.
4. Can a damaged speed sensor cause transmission problems with P1720?
Yes, a faulty speed sensor can impact transmission performance, leading to erratic shifting and incorrect gear selection.
5. How can I diagnose code P1720 on my Ford?
Start by inspecting the Vehicle Speed Sensor and its wiring for damage or disconnections. Use a multimeter to test sensor voltage and continuity. A diagnostic scan tool can also help confirm the issue.
6. Is it safe to drive with code P1720 active?
Driving is possible but not recommended, as inaccurate speed readings and transmission issues could compromise safety and performance.
7. How much does it cost to fix code P1720 on a Ford?
Repair costs vary but typically range from $100 to $300, depending on whether the issue is with the speed sensor or wiring.
8. Can clearing the code P1720 fix the problem permanently?
Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue will only temporarily remove the warning. The problem must be repaired to prevent the code from returning.
9. Does code P1720 affect fuel efficiency?
Yes, incorrect vehicle speed data can disrupt engine performance, potentially reducing fuel efficiency.
10. Can a failing ECM cause code P1720?
While rare, an ECM failure or malfunction may contribute to the P1720 code if it cannot process speed sensor data correctly.
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