AutoCodes – Ford – P0720 2000 Ford F150

P0720 2000 Ford F150 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 2000 Ford F150 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.

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Code Popularity 6,049

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 13, 2020

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0720 2000 Ford F150 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 2000 Ford F150 - Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — P0720 2000 Ford F150 Code - Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0720 2000 Ford F150?

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 2000 Ford F150?

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 2000 Ford F150 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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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 2000 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0720 on a 2000 Ford F150?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P0720 on a 2000 Ford F150 include erratic or non-functional speedometer readings, harsh shifting, and the transmission staying in one gear.

2. What does the OBDII code P0720 indicate on a 2000 Ford F150?

The OBDII code P0720 on a 2000 Ford F150 indicates a malfunction in the output shaft speed sensor circuit, which is responsible for monitoring the speed of the transmission output shaft.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0720 on a 2000 Ford F150?

Possible causes of OBDII code P0720 on a 2000 Ford F150 include a faulty output shaft speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, or issues with the transmission control module.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0720 on my 2000 Ford F150?

Diagnosing OBDII code P0720 on a 2000 Ford F150 involves using a scan tool to read the code, testing the output shaft speed sensor for proper operation, and inspecting the sensor circuit for any damage or loose connections.

5. Can I continue driving my 2000 Ford F150 with OBDII code P0720?

It is not recommended to continue driving your 2000 Ford F150 with OBDII code P0720, as it can lead to transmission issues and potential safety hazards. It is best to address the problem promptly.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0720 on my 2000 Ford F150?

Repairing OBDII code P0720 on a 2000 Ford F150 typically involves replacing the output shaft speed sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and clearing the trouble code with a scan tool.

7. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P0720 on a 2000 Ford F150 without fixing the underlying issue?

While you can clear the OBDII code P0720 on a 2000 Ford F150 with a scan tool, it is important to address the underlying issue causing the code to prevent further damage to the transmission.

8. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code P0720 on a 2000 Ford F150?

The cost of fixing OBDII code P0720 on a 2000 Ford F150 can vary depending on the cause of the issue, but it typically involves the cost of a new output shaft speed sensor and any labor charges for diagnosis and repair.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code P0720 on a 2000 Ford F150?

A DIY enthusiast with the necessary tools and knowledge of automotive repair may be able to replace the output shaft speed sensor and address the wiring or connector issues causing OBDII code P0720 on a 2000 Ford F150.

10. Will fixing OBDII code P0720 on my 2000 Ford F150 improve the vehicle's performance?

Fixing OBDII code P0720 on a 2000 Ford F150 can improve the vehicle's performance by restoring proper transmission function, ensuring accurate speed readings, and preventing potential transmission issues in the future.