P0720 Volkswagen Code - Output Speed Sensor Circuit
Quick Answer
The speed sensor detects the revolution of the idler gear parking pawl lock gear and emits a pulse signal. Common causes include Faulty Speed Sensor, Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, 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 Volkswagen indicates Output Speed Sensor Circuit.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Speed Sensor, Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, 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.
Code P0720 Volkswagen Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0720 Volkswagen?
- Faulty Speed Sensor
- Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted
- Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC P0720 Volkswagen?
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 Volkswagen 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 P0720 Volkswagen Code
1. What does the OBDII code P0720 mean on a Volkswagen?
P0720 indicates an issue with the output speed sensor circuit, which monitors the speed of the transmission's output shaft.
2. What are the symptoms of the P0720 code in a Volkswagen?
Common symptoms include erratic or harsh shifting, the transmission staying in limp mode, inaccurate speedometer readings, and the check engine light turning on.
3. What causes the P0720 code to appear in a Volkswagen?
Possible causes include a faulty output speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning transmission control module (TCM), or mechanical issues within the transmission.
4. Can I drive my Volkswagen with the P0720 code?
Driving with this code is not recommended, as it can lead to poor transmission performance and potential damage to the transmission over time.
5. How do I fix the P0720 code on my Volkswagen?
Repairs may include replacing the output speed sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming or replacing the TCM.
6. How do I diagnose the P0720 code in a Volkswagen?
Start by scanning for additional codes, inspecting the wiring and connectors near the speed sensor, testing the output speed sensor with a multimeter, and verifying TCM operation.
7. Where is the output speed sensor located on a Volkswagen?
The output speed sensor is typically located on the transmission housing, near the output shaft.
8. How much does it cost to fix the P0720 code on a Volkswagen?
The cost varies depending on the specific repair, but replacing the speed sensor typically costs $100 to $300, including parts and labor.
9. Can a faulty output speed sensor damage the transmission in a Volkswagen?
Yes, if left unaddressed, it can lead to improper transmission operation, which may cause long-term damage.
10. Will clearing the P0720 code fix the issue in my Volkswagen?
Clearing the code will turn off the check engine light temporarily, but the underlying issue must be resolved to prevent the code from returning.
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