P0720 on Ford: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost
Quick Answer
Not safe to drive
P0720 on a Ford means the transmission control module is not receiving a proper signal from the output speed sensor. This sensor measures how fast the transmission output shaft rotates, which determines vehicle speed and helps the TCM calculate gear ratios and shift points.
- Severity
- High · Transmission
- Typical repair cost, all makes
- €85-€350
Connect a standard OBD2 adapter (Bluetooth LE on iPhone) to your Ford and Skanyx tells you what P0720 means on that engine, whether it is safe to keep driving, and what the fix should cost. Free on iPhone and Android.
Get Skanyx freeWhat does P0720 mean on a Ford?
The Quick Answer above is the generic definition. What follows is the model-specific detail for the Ford models that log P0720.
Ford Focus
2005-2022
Focus Mk2 models with the 4F27E automatic and Mk3 models with the Powershift DCT can both trigger P0720. On the 4F27E, the output shaft sensor is externally mounted and cheap to replace. On the Powershift, the sensor is internal to the TCM housing and failure often requires TCM replacement.
What causes P0720 on a Ford?
Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P0720 page, these are the patterns noted for Ford models:
4F27E output shaft sensor wear
: Ford Focus
Powershift DCT internal TCM speed sensor failure
: Ford Focus
How to diagnose P0720 on a Ford with OBD2
- Check if the speedometer is working. A dead speedometer alongside P0720 strongly points to the output speed sensor, since both the transmission and instrument cluster rely on this signal.
- Locate the output speed sensor on the transmission housing (typically near the tail shaft or differential housing). Inspect the connector for corrosion, loose pins, or damage.
- Measure sensor resistance with a multimeter and compare to manufacturer specifications (typically 300-1200 ohms for a magnetic sensor). With the car safely raised and the gearbox in neutral, turn a drive wheel by hand and check that the sensor produces a signal.
- Compare input and output speed readings. Vehicle speed is standard OBD2 live data, but transmission input and output speeds usually need manufacturer-level software. The output speed should correlate with vehicle speed and the current gear ratio.
- If the sensor and wiring test normal, inspect the transmission fluid for metal contamination. Debris on the magnetic sensor tip can cause signal distortion.
How much does P0720 cost to fix on a Ford? (EUR)
Estimated repair costs for P0720 in EUR, compiled across makes. Ford costs typically sit in the middle of each range.
| Repair | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Total Estimate | DIY Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Output speed sensor replacement | €25–€120 | €60–€200 | €85–€320 | Moderate |
| Sensor wiring repair | €15–€60 | €80–€180 | €95–€240 | Moderate |
| Transmission fluid and filter change | €50–€150 | €80–€200 | €130–€350 | Moderate |
Prices estimated as of October 2026. Costs vary by region, vehicle, and shop.
Codes related to P0720
These codes are often seen alongside P0720 or point to related issues, on any make:
Looking for the full P0720 reference (all makes, full diagnosis flow, complete repair cost matrix)? See the main P0720 guide