Speed sensor code P0720

Tiny
MICHAEL PEREZ2
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 HONDA ACCORD
  • 2.2L
  • 4 CYL
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 193,000 MILES
So my engine light came on, went down to the auto parts store to scan my engine light, and got a p0720 code. They said it was the vehicle speed sensor. So a couple days later I replaced it for a new one, drove it for a bit, and engine light came on again. Also the D4 light is flashing. My speedometer works fine, transmission feels fine, and cruise control works. What did I do wrong? Any suggestions, please and thank you?
Wednesday, March 18th, 2020 AT 7:55 PM

8 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,644 POSTS
Hi,

Is it the same code again? Was it the counter shaft speed sensor that was replaced? See pictures 1 and 2 for location.

Let me know. Also, let me know if the check engine light is also staying on again. Since you indicated it is shifting properly, I have a feeling it is a problem with the sensor you replaced. Either the wrong one was replaced or the one you got has failed. Other than that, the fluid could be very dirty.

Let me know.
Joe
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Wednesday, March 18th, 2020 AT 8:08 PM
Tiny
BMDOUBLE
  • MECHANIC
  • 1,139 POSTS
Was it the countershaft sensor that was replaced?
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Wednesday, March 18th, 2020 AT 8:17 PM
Tiny
MICHAEL PEREZ2
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Yes this is the part I changed. I looked at the fluid but still seems red. After changing the sensor, I disconnected the battery to reset the engine light, but it came back on after driving it about 1,000 feet. I went to O'Reilly's and got the same code.I forgot to mention that the boot on my inner CV joint tore apart and splattered grease all over the place. Do you think that has anything to do with this?
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Saturday, March 21st, 2020 AT 10:34 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,644 POSTS
Hi,

I'm going to say no to the grease issue. Have you checked the wiring to the connector? Are you certain that the sensor is fully seated? If you take a look at the attached pic, you see there are only two wires between the sensor and the PCM (power-train control module). Either there is a wiring issue, connection issue, something preventing the new sensor from creating a signal, or the PCM is failing.

The sensor is really not even read until you exceed 8 mph. So that's why it took 100 feet. At this point, the only thing that can be done at home is checking wiring, connections, and making sure the sensor is clean and fully inserted.

The next step would be to check what is called freeze frame details using a scanner that can read such info. The info can then be used to see when and possibly where the problem starts.

I wish I had an easier answer for you. I suspect it is something with a connection issue. If possible, trace the wiring back all the way to the back to the PCM. With the battery disconnected, unplug the PCM and check connection issues there as well.

Let me know if you feel this is something you feel comfortable doing. Please note that anytime the PCM is disconnected, make sure the battery is disconnected first. Once the PCM is reconnected, then you can reconnect the battery.

Let me know.

Joe
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Saturday, March 21st, 2020 AT 10:55 AM
Tiny
MICHAEL PEREZ2
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Yeah, that's a little out of my comfort zone. But I looked at the fluid again and it's at a light brown color. Also when I'm in park and shift to reverse the car jumps a little bit.
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Monday, March 23rd, 2020 AT 6:02 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,644 POSTS
You mentioned the fluid was red in an earlier post. Did it get really dirty again? It should be red not brown.

Joe
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Monday, March 23rd, 2020 AT 8:18 PM
Tiny
MICHAEL PEREZ2
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Yes after checking it on a white paper towel it was light brown. It looked red/pinkish on the dipstick. I looked at the connector, and didnt look too damaged, not sure exactly what to look for.
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Monday, March 23rd, 2020 AT 8:21 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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On the connector, disconnect it and look at where it attaches to make sure the pins are not pushed in, corroded, or damaged in any way. Also, just look to see if there is any insulation on the wire that is damaged, skinned, or appears weak. Honestly, the wiring can break internally (under the insulation) and you don't see it. Simply gently bend the wiring around to see if there is tension in it.

I wish I was there to help. It's a lot easier to show someone than it is to explain.

Here is a link you may find helpful. It discusses checking wiring.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

Let me know.

Joe
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Monday, March 23rd, 2020 AT 8:35 PM

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