AutoCodes – Ford – P0720 2012 Ford Fusion

P0720 2012 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 2012 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 10,461
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 2012 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 2012 Ford Fusion - Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
P0720 2012 Ford Fusion Code - Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0720 2012 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 2012 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 2012 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 2012 Ford Fusion code?

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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 2012 Ford Fusion Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0720 mean for a 2012 Ford Fusion?

P0720 indicates a malfunction in the Output Shaft Speed (OSS) Sensor circuit, which monitors the rotational speed of the transmission's output shaft.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0720 in a 2012 Ford Fusion?

Symptoms may include erratic or harsh shifting, the transmission failing to shift properly, reduced fuel efficiency, or the speedometer not functioning correctly.

3. What causes the P0720 code in a 2012 Ford Fusion?

Common causes include a faulty OSS sensor, damaged wiring or connections in the OSS sensor circuit, a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM), or low transmission fluid.

4. Can driving with code P0720 damage my 2012 Ford Fusion?

Driving with this code can lead to further damage to the transmission or drivetrain if left unresolved, as improper shifting may strain components.

5. How do I fix the P0720 code on a 2012 Ford Fusion?

Repairs may involve replacing the OSS sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, addressing transmission fluid issues, or reprogramming or replacing the PCM if necessary.

6. Where is the Output Shaft Speed Sensor located in a 2012 Ford Fusion?

The OSS sensor is typically located on the transmission housing, near the output shaft.

7. How can I diagnose the P0720 code on my 2012 Ford Fusion?

Diagnosis involves using an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, visually inspecting the OSS sensor and wiring for damage, testing the sensor with a multimeter, and checking the transmission fluid level and condition.

8. Is the P0720 code specific to the 2012 Ford Fusion?

No, the P0720 code is a generic OBDII code that can appear on many vehicles, but the specific causes and repairs may vary by make and model.

9. How much does it cost to fix the P0720 code on a 2012 Ford Fusion?

Repair costs can range from $100 to $400 depending on whether you need to replace the OSS sensor, repair wiring, or address related issues.

10. Can low transmission fluid cause the P0720 code in a 2012 Ford Fusion?

Yes, low or contaminated transmission fluid can affect the OSS sensor's performance and trigger the P0720 code.

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