AutoCodesHonda – P0720 Honda

P0720 Honda Code - Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Output Shaft (Countershaft) Speed Sensor is attached to the transmission housing to sense countershaft revolutions. Common causes include Faulty Output Shaft (Countershaft) Speed Sensor, Output Shaft Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Output Shaft 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 Honda indicates Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Output Shaft (Countershaft) Speed Sensor, Output Shaft Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Output Shaft 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 65,329
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 13, 2020
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Code P0720 Honda Description

The Output Shaft (Countershaft) Speed Sensor is attached to the transmission housing to sense countershaft revolutions. The Engine Control Module (ECM) determines the vehicle speed according to the signal from the Output Shaft (Countershaft) Speed Sensor to the control units. If no signal from the Output Shaft (Countershaft) Speed Sensor is received for a set period of time, the ECM detects a malfunction, and a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored.
OBDII Code P0720 Honda - Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
P0720 Honda Code - Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0720 Honda?

  • Faulty Output Shaft (Countershaft) Speed Sensor
  • Output Shaft Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Output Shaft Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0720 Honda?

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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0720 Honda 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 Honda code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0720 Honda code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Honda Models

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 Honda Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0720 in a Honda?

- Common symptoms of OBDII code P0720 in a Honda include erratic speedometer readings, harsh shifting, transmission slippage, and the transmission going into limp mode.

2. What can cause the OBDII code P0720 in a Honda?

- The most common cause of OBDII code P0720 in a Honda is a faulty output shaft speed sensor or issues with the sensor circuit, such as damaged wiring or poor connections.

3. How can I diagnose the output shaft speed sensor circuit malfunction in a Honda?

- To diagnose the output shaft speed sensor circuit malfunction in a Honda, you can use a code reader to retrieve the specific code, inspect the sensor and its wiring for damage, and test the sensor's resistance and output voltage.

4. Can I drive my Honda with the OBDII code P0720 present?

- It is not recommended to drive your Honda with the OBDII code P0720 present, as it can lead to further damage to the transmission and potentially leave you stranded on the road.

5. How can I repair the output shaft speed sensor circuit malfunction in my Honda?

- To repair the output shaft speed sensor circuit malfunction in your Honda, you may need to replace the faulty sensor, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, and clear the trouble code with a code reader.

6. Will resetting the trouble code make the OBDII code P0720 go away permanently?

- Resetting the trouble code may temporarily clear the OBDII code P0720, but if the underlying issue with the output shaft speed sensor circuit is not addressed, the code is likely to return.

7. Is it possible to clean the output shaft speed sensor in a Honda to fix the OBDII code P0720?

- No, cleaning the output shaft speed sensor typically does not resolve the OBDII code P0720. It is best to replace the sensor if it is found to be faulty.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the OBDII code P0720 in a Honda?

- Depending on your skill level and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to fix the OBDII code P0720 in a Honda by following repair guides and using necessary diagnostic equipment.

9. Will the OBDII code P0720 cause my Honda to fail an emissions test?

- Yes, the OBDII code P0720 can cause your Honda to fail an emissions test, as it indicates a malfunction in the transmission speed sensor circuit, which affects the vehicle's emissions control system.

10. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code P0720 output shaft speed sensor circuit malfunction in a Honda?

- The cost to repair the OBDII code P0720 output shaft speed sensor circuit malfunction in a Honda can vary depending on the extent of the issue, but it typically ranges from $200 to $500 for parts and labor.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0720 Honda OBDII Code

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