AutoCodes – Ford – P0721 2001 Ford F150

P0721 2001 Ford F150 Code - Output Shaft Speed Sensor Range/Performance

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: P0721 2001 Ford F150 indicates Output Shaft Speed Sensor Range/Performance.
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 2,950

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

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

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0721 2001 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 out of range circuit.

OBDII Code P0721 2001 Ford F150 - Output Shaft Speed Sensor Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com — P0721 2001 Ford F150 Code - Output Shaft Speed Sensor Range/Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0721 2001 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 P0721 2001 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 P0721 2001 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.

Need more information about the P0721 2001 Ford F150 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 P0721 2001 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0721 in a 2001 Ford F150?

The common symptoms of code P0721 in a 2001 Ford F150 include erratic speedometer readings, harsh shifting, and the transmission going into limp mode.

2. What causes the OBDII code P0721 in a 2001 Ford F150?

The P0721 code in a 2001 Ford F150 is typically triggered by a faulty output shaft speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or issues with the transmission control module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0721 in my 2001 Ford F150?

Diagnosing code P0721 involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the code, inspecting the output shaft speed sensor and its wiring for damage, and testing the sensor's resistance and voltage output.

4. Can a faulty output shaft speed sensor be repaired, or does it need to be replaced?

In most cases, a faulty output shaft speed sensor causing code P0721 will need to be replaced. Repairing the sensor is not recommended as it may lead to further transmission issues.

5. Are there any DIY repair tips for resolving OBDII code P0721 in a 2001 Ford F150?

DIY repair tips for code P0721 in a 2001 Ford F150 include carefully inspecting the sensor and wiring for damage, cleaning any connectors, and ensuring a secure connection before replacing the sensor if needed.

6. What happens if the OBDII code P0721 in a 2001 Ford F150 is ignored?

Ignoring code P0721 in a 2001 Ford F150 can lead to further damage to the transmission, increased fuel consumption, and potentially unsafe driving conditions due to erratic shifting.

7. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0721 in a 2001 Ford F150?

The repair time for code P0721 in a 2001 Ford F150 can vary depending on the extent of the issue, but replacing the output shaft speed sensor usually takes around 1-2 hours.

8. Can resetting the OBDII code P0721 in a 2001 Ford F150 make it go away permanently?

Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but if the underlying issue causing P0721 is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear after driving the vehicle for some time.

9. Is it safe to drive a 2001 Ford F150 with the OBDII code P0721 present?

It is not recommended to drive a 2001 Ford F150 with code P0721 present, as it can lead to transmission issues and potentially unsafe driving conditions. It is best to address the problem promptly.

10. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0721 in a 2001 Ford F150?

The cost of repairing code P0721 in a 2001 Ford F150 can vary depending on the labor rates and parts costs in your area. However, replacing the output shaft speed sensor typically ranges from $100 to $300.