P0723 Output Speed Sensor Intermittent
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Output Speed Sensor Intermittent
What does that mean?
This is a generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and applies to OBD-II vehicles. That may include but is not limited to vehicles from VW, BMW, Mercedes, Chevrolet, GMC, Allison, Duramax, Dodge, Ram, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Audi, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on year, make, model and powertrain configuration.
The P0723 OBD-II trouble code is associated with the Transmission Output Speed Sensor.
When the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects a malfunction within the Output Speed Sensor Circuit a wide variety of codes can be triggered depending on the specific vehicle and the specific automatic transmission.
Some of the more common code responses associated with Transmission Output Speed Sensor issues are codes P0720, P0721, P0722 and P0723 based on the specific malfunction that alerts the PCM to set the code and activate the Check Engine Light.
The purpose of the Transmission Output Speed Sensor is to provide the PCM with signal that indicates the speed of the transmission output shaft rotation. The PCM uses these readings to control the shift solenoids. The solenoids direct fluid between various hydraulic circuits and change the transmission gear ratio at the appropriate time. Based on the vehicle and the transmission configuration the Output Speed Sensor may also control the speedometer reading. An automatic transmission is controlled by bands and clutches that change gears by having fluid pressure in the right place at the right time. This process starts with the Transmission Output Speed Sensor.
Code P0723 is set by the PCM when it's not seeing a regular, consistent signal from the Output Speed Sensor.
What is the severity of this DTC?
The severity of this code normally starts as moderate, but it can progress to a more severe level rapidly when not corrected in a timely manner.
Photo of a transmission speed sensor:
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P0723 trouble code may include:
Poor fuel economy Check Engine Light illuminated Transmission does not shift Transmission Shifts roughly Possibly misfire-like symptoms PCM puts the engine into limp mode Speedometer shows incorrect or erratic readingWhat are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this P0723 transmission code may include:
Defective Output Speed Sensor Dirty or contaminated fluid Dirty or clogged transmission filter Defective Coolant Temperature Sensor Defective Transmission Valve Body Restricted hydraulic passages Faulty Shift Solenoid Corroded or damaged connector Faulty or damaged wiring Faulty PCMWhat are some P0723 troubleshooting steps?
Prior to beginning the troubleshooting process for any malfunction you should research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB's) for the specific vehicle by year, model and transmission. In some situations this can save a lot of time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.
The first step is to make sure the fluid level is correct and inspect the condition of the fluid for contamination. You should also check the vehicle records to verify the last time that the filter and fluid was changed if possible. A thorough visual inspection to check the associated wiring for obvious defects such as scraping, rubbing, bare wires, or burn spots is next. Check the connectors and connections for security, corrosion and damaged pins. This should include all wiring and connectors to the output speed sensor, transmission solenoids, transmission pump and the PCM. Depending on the configuration, the transmission linkage should be inspected for security and freedom of movement.
Advanced Steps
The advanced steps become very vehicle spe
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