P1720 Ford Code - Vehicle Speed Meter Circuit Malfunction
Quick Answer
The P1720 Ford code indicates a malfunction in the vehicle speed meter circuit. Common causes include Damaged wiring or connectors in the speed meter circuit, Faulty speed sensor, Defective instrument cluster. 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
- P1720 Ford indicates Vehicle Speed Meter Circuit Malfunction.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Damaged wiring or connectors in the speed meter circuit, Faulty speed sensor, Defective instrument cluster.
- 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 P1720 Ford Description
The P1720 Ford code indicates a malfunction in the vehicle speed meter circuit. This means that there is an issue with the system responsible for measuring and displaying the vehicle's speed. The vehicle speed meter, also known as the speedometer, is an essential component that provides the driver with real-time information about the speed at which the vehicle is traveling. When this circuit malfunctions, it can lead to inaccurate speed readings or a complete failure of the speedometer.
Common Causes of P1720 Ford
- Damaged wiring or connectors in the speed meter circuit
- Faulty speed sensor
- Defective instrument cluster
- Issues with the engine control module
- Corrosion or contamination in the speedometer system
Symptoms of P1720 Ford
- Inaccurate speedometer readings
- Speedometer needle jumping or fluctuating
- Speedometer not working at all
- Check Engine Light illuminated
- Transmission shifting irregularly
How to Fix P1720 Ford
- Diagnose the issue by using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the trouble codes and perform a visual inspection of the speedometer circuit.
- Test the speed sensor and wiring connections for continuity and proper voltage using a multimeter.
- Replace any damaged wiring, connectors, or components in the speed meter circuit.
- Reset the trouble codes and test drive the vehicle to ensure the speedometer is functioning correctly.
- If the issue persists, further diagnosis may be required to pinpoint the exact cause of the malfunction.
Cost to Fix P1720 Ford
The typical repair costs for addressing a P1720 Ford code can range from $150 to $500, depending on the specific cause of the issue and the cost of parts and labor. Additional costs may apply if the speed sensor or instrument cluster needs to be replaced. It is essential to consult with a professional mechanic to get an accurate estimate based on the vehicle's make and model, as well as the extent of the repair needed. Keep in mind that diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops can vary, so it's advisable to inquire locally for a more precise estimate.
Need more information about the P1720 Ford code?
Need more information on how to fix the P1720 Ford code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the P1720 Ford code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Frequently Asked Questions about P1720 Ford Code
1. What does the OBD-II code P1720 mean on a Ford vehicle?
P1720 indicates a malfunction in the vehicle speed meter circuit, which monitors and communicates the vehicle's speed to the engine control module (ECM).
2. What are the common symptoms of code P1720 in a Ford?
Symptoms may include inaccurate speedometer readings, erratic transmission shifting, reduced fuel efficiency, or the Check Engine Light being illuminated.
3. What causes code P1720 in Ford vehicles?
Common causes include a faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), damaged wiring or connectors in the speed sensor circuit, or issues with the ECM.
4. Can a damaged speed sensor cause transmission problems with P1720?
Yes, a faulty speed sensor can impact transmission performance, leading to erratic shifting and incorrect gear selection.
5. How can I diagnose code P1720 on my Ford?
Start by inspecting the Vehicle Speed Sensor and its wiring for damage or disconnections. Use a multimeter to test sensor voltage and continuity. A diagnostic scan tool can also help confirm the issue.
6. Is it safe to drive with code P1720 active?
Driving is possible but not recommended, as inaccurate speed readings and transmission issues could compromise safety and performance.
7. How much does it cost to fix code P1720 on a Ford?
Repair costs vary but typically range from $100 to $300, depending on whether the issue is with the speed sensor or wiring.
8. Can clearing the code P1720 fix the problem permanently?
Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue will only temporarily remove the warning. The problem must be repaired to prevent the code from returning.
9. Does code P1720 affect fuel efficiency?
Yes, incorrect vehicle speed data can disrupt engine performance, potentially reducing fuel efficiency.
10. Can a failing ECM cause code P1720?
While rare, an ECM failure or malfunction may contribute to the P1720 code if it cannot process speed sensor data correctly.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P1720 Ford OBDII Code
Code P1720 Ford comments
No comments found for this page.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.