P0720 Honda Code - Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction
Quick Answer
The P0720 code for Honda vehicles indicates a malfunction in the output shaft speed sensor circuit. Common causes include Faulty output shaft speed sensor, Poor electrical connection, Damaged wiring or connectors. 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 speed sensor, Poor electrical connection, Damaged wiring or connectors.
- 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.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.
Code P0720 Honda Description
The P0720 code for Honda vehicles indicates a malfunction in the output shaft speed sensor circuit. The output shaft speed sensor is a crucial component in the transmission system, as it measures the rotational speed of the output shaft and sends this information to the vehicle's engine control module (ECM). This data is essential for the ECM to properly adjust shifting patterns and ensure optimal performance and fuel efficiency.
Common Causes of P0720 Honda
- Faulty output shaft speed sensor
- Poor electrical connection
- Damaged wiring or connectors
- Faulty ECM
- Transmission fluid contamination
Symptoms of P0720 Honda
- Erratic shifting behavior
- Transmission slipping
- Transmission going into limp mode
- Inability to shift gears
- Check Engine Light illuminated
How to Fix P0720 Honda
- Retrieve the fault codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0720 code.
- Inspect the output shaft speed sensor and its wiring for any visible damage or corrosion.
- Test the output shaft speed sensor using a multimeter to check for proper resistance values.
- Replace the output shaft speed sensor if it is found to be faulty.
- Clear the fault codes and test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved.
Cost to Fix P0720 Honda
The typical repair costs for addressing a P0720 code on a Honda vehicle can range from $150 to $300, including parts and labor. However, it is important to note that specific diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops can vary based on factors such as location, vehicle make and model, and engine type. Rates in metropolitan areas or at dealerships may be higher, while independent shops often charge less. It is advisable to consult local rates for a more accurate estimate.
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
- P0720 2008 Honda Accord — Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Fault
- P0720 2009 Honda Accord — Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Fault
- P0720 2010 Honda Accord — Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Fault
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
-
P0720 acura 2002 model 3.2 v6 Engine pls help me locate output speed sensor and the gear is not select on moving bcos the speeddumeter is not working
-
On your model the output speed sensor is also call "Counter Shaft Position Sensor"

Click here to enlarge image -
Any body knows where’s a speed sensor located on a 2002 Honda Accord coupe 2.3
-
Here is the only image I got. On you vehicle the "Outputshaft Speed Sensor" is also call "Countershaft Position Sensor"

Click here to enlarge image
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.