How much does it cost to fix a P0720?
The typical all‑in repair cost for a P0720 code generally falls in the hundreds of dollars, often around the $200 to $600 range, though some cases can be cheaper or much more expensive depending on the vehicle and the underlying issue.
Understanding P0720 and What It Means
P0720 is an OBD‑II diagnostic trouble code that points to the Output Speed Sensor (OSS) circuit malfunction. The OSS provides the transmission’s speed data to the engine computer and the vehicle’s instruments. When the data is unreliable or missing, the powertrain control module may trigger P0720 and, in many cars, shift patterns or the speedometer may behave erratically.
Common Causes
Most often, the problem is one of the following: a faulty OSS, damaged or corroded wiring or connectors, poor ground, or a minor issue in the transmission’s sensor circuit. Less commonly, a faulty transmission control module or related software can also set P0720.
Cost Breakdown
Costs vary by vehicle, region, and whether the OSS or its wiring is to blame. The following ranges reflect typical U.S. shop pricing and are intended as a general guide.
- Diagnostic fee: Typically $50–$150 to identify the exact cause and confirm the OSS is at fault.
- Output Speed Sensor (OSS) replacement part: The sensor itself can range from about $20–$150 for aftermarket parts, with OEM parts often priced higher (roughly $60–$250) depending on the vehicle.
- Labor to replace the OSS: Most repairs take 0.5–2 hours. At typical shop labor rates of $80–$150 per hour, expect about $40–$300 in labor.
- Wiring or connector repair: If the issue is wiring or a corroded connector, parts may cost $50–$200 and labor $1–3 hours depending on access, so total around $100–$500.
- More extensive transmission work (rare): If the problem requires transmission removal, rebuild, or replacement, costs can climb to roughly $1,500–$4,000 or more, depending on the vehicle and whether a remanufactured or used transmission is installed.
Before this list, note that price variation is common by make/model and local labor rates.
In most cases, you’ll be paying for the OSS sensor and a modest amount of labor, plus any minor wiring repairs. The need for major transmission work is uncommon for a P0720, but it can occur if the OSS issue has caused secondary damage or if the diagnosis reveals a more extensive fault.
Considerations and Next Steps
Planning the repair involves several practical steps to manage cost and ensure the fix is appropriate for your car.
- Get a precise diagnosis: Have the shop confirm OSS failure with tests (voltage checks, circuit continuity, and sometimes wiring harness inspection) before replacing parts.
- Ask for a detailed estimate: Request separate line items for parts, labor, diagnostic fees, and any potential wiring work so you can compare quotes.
- Check for recalls or extended warranties: Some vehicles have recalls or extended warranties that cover OSS or transmission sensor issues.
- Consider after‑market vs OEM parts: Depending on your vehicle and budget, aftermarket OSS parts can be substantially cheaper than OEM parts; confirm compatibility with your car’s computer system.
- Assess the value of repair vs replacement: If multiple components are aging, a broader transmission service may be more cost-effective in the long run, but avoid unnecessary overhauls.
Before this list, here is what drivers should keep in mind when facing P0720 repairs.
Regardless of the path, you should expect a diagnosis to drive the final cost, and most shops will provide a written estimate before proceeding with significant work.
What to Expect Next
If you suspect P0720, plan to have a professional read the codes with a proper scan tool, perform a targeted test of the OSS and wiring, and then discuss the most cost‑effective fix based on the findings. Driving with a known OSS/wiring fault can sometimes trigger related transmission issues, so timely repair is advisable.
Summary
P0720 repair costs are typically moderate, centered on sensor replacement and associated wiring, with a diagnostic fee separating the two. Most drivers should budget roughly $200–$600 for a straightforward OSS replacement and minor wiring work. More extensive transmission work substantially raises the price, but that scenario is comparatively rare. The exact total depends on vehicle make/model, regional labor rates, and whether the problem is isolated to the OSS or involves broader transmission circuitry.
