Failed output speed sensor (40% likelihood): The sensor has completely failed, producing no signal for the TCM. Without output speed data, the TCM has no way to determine vehicle speed or calculate gear ratios. Broken or disconnected wiring (25% likelihood): An open circuit caused by a broken wire, cut harness, or disconnected connector prevents any signal from reaching the TCM, even if the sensor itself is functional. Damaged reluctor ring on output shaft (20% likelihood): If the toothed reluctor ring on the output shaft is damaged, missing teeth, or has come loose, the sensor cannot generate the alternating signal needed to report shaft speed. Excessive metallic contamination on sensor (15% likelihood): A heavy buildup of metal particles on the magnetic sensor tip can completely overwhelm the sensor, preventing it from detecting the reluctor ring teeth and generating a usable signal.

How much does it cost to fix P0722?

DIY repair typically costs $15–$80 for parts. Professional repair runs $200–$500 including parts and labor.

P0722

Powertrain

High

Output Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal

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The P0722 code is a serious fault indicating a complete loss of signal from the output speed sensor. This sensor is critical — it tells the TCM how fast the vehicle is actually moving and allows it to calculate which gear the transmission is in. Without this signal, the transmission cannot shift properly and will immediately enter limp mode.

With no output speed signal, your speedometer will read zero even while driving, the odometer won't track mileage, and the transmission will be locked into a single gear (usually second or third). On many vehicles, the output speed sensor also provides data used by the ABS and traction control systems, so those warning lights may illuminate as well. The vehicle may still be drivable in limp mode, but only at reduced speeds.

This code requires prompt attention. Start with the simplest checks: verify the sensor connector is plugged in and the wiring is intact. The output speed sensor is usually externally mounted on the transmission case or tailshaft housing and is accessible from underneath the vehicle. If the connector is good, pull the sensor and inspect its tip for heavy metallic contamination — clean it or replace the sensor ($15–$80). A transmission fluid and filter change is also recommended to address the source of any metallic debris. If a new sensor doesn't fix it, the reluctor ring may need inspection, which is a more involved repair.

Severity

High — Immediate AttentionWithin 24 Hours

Symptoms

•Speedometer reads zero while driving
•Transmission stuck in one gear (limp mode)
•Vehicle won't shift at all
•ABS and traction control warning lights may illuminate
•Odometer stops counting miles
•Check engine light illuminated

Likely Causes

Failed output speed sensor40%

The sensor has completely failed, producing no signal for the TCM. Without output speed data, the TCM has no way to determine vehicle speed or calculate gear ratios.

Broken or disconnected wiring25%

An open circuit caused by a broken wire, cut harness, or disconnected connector prevents any signal from reaching the TCM, even if the sensor itself is functional.

Damaged reluctor ring on output shaft20%

If the toothed reluctor ring on the output shaft is damaged, missing teeth, or has come loose, the sensor cannot generate the alternating signal needed to report shaft speed.

Excessive metallic contamination on sensor15%

A heavy buildup of metal particles on the magnetic sensor tip can completely overwhelm the sensor, preventing it from detecting the reluctor ring teeth and generating a usable signal.