P0720 on 2011-2013 Ford F-150: Output Speed Sensor Failure and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2011-2013 Ford F-150

The 2011-2013 F-150, equipped with the 6R80 automatic transmission, is known for a high failure rate of the internal molded lead frame. This part, which houses both the Output Speed Sensor (OSS) and Turbine Speed Sensor (TSS), can develop internal circuit breaks or shorts. The problem became so widespread that Ford issued Safety Recall 19S07 🎬 Watch: How the PCM software update prevents sudden downshifts. to update the PCM software to prevent dangerous downshifts and also created Customer Satisfaction Program 19N01, which extended the warranty for the lead frame itself.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Sudden and violent downshift to a low gear (often 1st gear) while driving.
• Transmission stuck in one gear (e.g., 3rd or 5th), known as "limp mode".
• Wrench light and/or Check Engine Light illuminated on the dashboard.
• Speedometer stops working or drops to zero while driving.
• Odometer and trip computer display may go blank (showing dashes).
• Harsh or erratic shifting.
• Airbag light may illuminate.

Most Likely Causes

1. Failed Molded Lead Frame 🔴 High Probability This is a widely documented failure point on the 6R80 transmission. The internal circuitry of the lead frame, which includes the OSS, is prone to developing open circuits. Ford acknowledged this with Customer Satisfaction Program 19N01, which specifically covered this part for DTCs P0720, P0722, and P0731.
   How to confirm: The presence of codes P0720, P0722, or P0731 is a strong indicator. A dealership or qualified technician can perform pinpoint tests to confirm an open circuit in the OSS, as noted in NHTSA complaint #11171588. The failure is often intermittent, clearing after the truck sits for a while, which can make diagnosis frustrating.
   Typical fix: Replace the molded lead frame assembly inside the transmission. This also requires replacing the transmission pan gasket, filter, fluid, and the bulkhead connector sleeve seal.
   Est. part cost: $200-$400
2. Damaged Wiring or Connector ⚪ Low Probability While less common than lead frame failure, the main transmission bulkhead connector can leak fluid if the sleeve seal fails, potentially contaminating the connection. The harness can also be damaged by road debris or exhaust heat.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the main transmission electrical connector (the bulkhead connector) for fluid intrusion, corrosion, pushed-out pins, or damage. Test for continuity between the PCM and the transmission connector pins for the OSS.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wiring harness or replace the connector. If the bulkhead sleeve is leaking, it must be replaced.
   Est. part cost: $20-$100
3. Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software Issue ⚪ Low Probability Ford issued recall 19S07 to update the PCM software. The update prevents the transmission from downshifting to first gear if the OSS signal is lost, mitigating the most dangerous symptom. An initial faulty software fix led to a subsequent recall, 19S19, for some 2013 models. This does not fix the root cause (the lead frame) but makes the failure less hazardous.
   How to confirm: A Ford dealer can check the vehicle's VIN to see if recalls 19S07 and 19S19 have been performed. If the software is outdated, the recall applies.
   Typical fix: Reprogram the PCM with the latest software at a Ford dealership. This is often done in conjunction with replacing the lead frame and is free if the recall is open for the vehicle.
   Est. part cost: $0 (if recall applies)

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM): This is very rare. The PCM should only be suspected after the lead frame and wiring have been definitively ruled out as the cause.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0720 and check for other related codes like P0721, P0722, or P0731.
2. Contact a Ford dealership or use Ford's online tools to check your vehicle's VIN for open recalls (19S07, 19S19) and the status of Customer Satisfaction Program 19N01. Although the 19N01 warranty has likely expired due to time, it's worth confirming.
3. If no warranty or recall applies, diagnosis begins. The overwhelming probability is a failed internal molded lead frame.
4. Before internal work, perform a thorough visual inspection of the main external transmission wiring harness and the round bulkhead connector for any obvious signs of damage, corrosion, or fluid leaks from the connector sleeve.
5. If external wiring is intact, the next step is to replace the molded lead frame. This involves draining the transmission fluid, dropping the pan, and removing the valve body to access the lead frame.
6. Crucial Step: The bulkhead connector sleeve MUST be removed before the valve body can be dropped. This is a common point of confusion for DIY repairs.
7. While replacing the lead frame, it is mandatory to also replace the transmission filter, pan gasket, and the bulkhead connector sleeve seal to prevent future leaks.
8. Refill the transmission with the correct type and amount of fluid (Motorcraft Mercon LV). This is typically 9-11 quarts for this service.
9. Clear the trouble codes, and it is recommended to perform a transmission adaptive learning procedure with a capable scan tool, followed by a test drive to ensure the issue is resolved.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Transmission Molded Lead Frame (OEM #AL3Z-7G276-D (supersedes AL3Z-7G276-A and AL3Z-7G276-B)) — This is the component that houses the OSS and is the most common failure point for code P0720 on this vehicle.
  Trusted brands: Motorcraft, Dorman (Part # 926-149)
  OEM price range: $210-$320
  Aftermarket price range: $130-$280
• Automatic Transmission Fluid (OEM #Motorcraft XT-10-QLVC (Mercon LV)) — The transmission fluid must be drained to access the lead frame. Approximately 9-11 quarts are needed for a drain, service, and refill.
  Trusted brands: Motorcraft Mercon LV
  OEM price range: $80-$120
  Aftermarket price range: $70-$100
• Transmission Filter Kit (Filter and Pan Gasket) (OEM #BL3Z-7A098-A (Motorcraft FT-188)) — The filter and gasket should always be replaced whenever the transmission pan is removed.
  Trusted brands: Motorcraft, Wix, ATP
  OEM price range: $30-$50
  Aftermarket price range: $20-$40
• Bulkhead Connector Sleeve Seal (OEM #6L2Z-7G276-AA) — This seal prevents leaks at the main electrical connector. It is mandatory to replace when the lead frame is serviced to ensure a proper seal and prevent future fluid intrusion issues.
  Trusted brands: Motorcraft
  OEM price range: $15-$25
  Aftermarket price range: $10-$20

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0722 — Stands for "Output Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal." It often appears with P0720 as it indicates a complete loss of the signal, a common result of a failed lead frame.
• P0721 — Stands for "Output Speed Sensor Circuit Range/Performance." This indicates an erratic or irrational signal from the OSS, which is another symptom of a failing lead frame.
• P0731 — Stands for "Gear 1 Incorrect Ratio." The PCM sets this code when it commands a gear change but doesn't see the expected change in speed from the OSS, which is a direct consequence of the P0720 fault. This code was also listed as a trigger for the 19N01 warranty extension.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• Bulletin #19N01-S4: August 17, 2021 - This is the 4th supplement to the Customer Satisfaction Program, providing updated labor allowances and parts ordering information. It reiterates that the program covers lead frame replacement for DTCs P0720, P0722, P0731, and/or P1500 for 10 years/150,000 miles.
• Bulletin #19S07-S2: June 13, 2019 - This supplement to the safety recall provides service procedures for reprogramming the PCM to prevent the unintended downshift. It explicitly states that if DTCs like P0720 are present, technicians should refer to program 19N01.
• Bulletin #TSB 11-3-25: Details the procedure for fixing a transmission fluid leak at the bulkhead connector sleeve, including the part number for the updated sleeve with black O-rings.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Customer Satisfaction Program 19N01: Ford extended the warranty on the molded lead frame for certain 2011-2013 F-150s to 10 years or 150,000 miles from the vehicle's warranty start date. If the vehicle exhibited DTCs P0720, P0722, P0731, or P1500, the replacement was covered. For most vehicles, this program has now expired due to the 10-year time limit. Owners who paid for the repair before the program was announced were eligible for a refund, but that offer also expired.
• Safety Recalls 19S07 and 19S19: Ford issued recall 19S07 to reprogram the PCM to prevent the dangerous sudden downshift to first gear if the OSS signal failed. A later recall, 19S19, was issued for certain 2013 F-150s with 5.0L and 6.2L engines because the initial software fix was incomplete, leaving them still at risk. These recalls are a software patch to improve safety but do not fix the underlying hardware (lead frame) failure.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Live data OSS vs. ISS comparison — expected: With the vehicle moving, the Output Speed Sensor (OSS) reading should rationally correspond to the Input Speed Sensor (ISS) and vehicle speed.. Failure: If the OSS reading jumps erratically, drops to zero intermittently, or lags significantly behind the ISS reading while the vehicle is in motion, the sensor on the lead frame is malfunctioning.
• OSS Sensor Resistance — expected: A specific Ohm value is not consistently published for a simple resistance test because the sensor is part of a complex assembly. Diagnosis relies more on live data and circuit continuity tests.. Failure: Testing for continuity to ground or power on the signal wire can indicate a short. An open circuit (infinite resistance) between the PCM and the sensor connector indicates a broken wire or internal lead frame failure.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Ford IDS, FORScan, Snap-on, Autel: Clear Transmission Adaptive Tables / Reset All Adaptations — This function must be performed after replacing the transmission, valve body, or molded lead frame. It clears the learned shift patterns stored by the TCM. Failing to do this can result in harsh shifting, as the old adaptations are not appropriate for the new components.
• FORScan: Halt/Stop Transmission Adaptive Learning — Some advanced users choose to perform a specific drive cycle to teach the transmission optimal shift points and then use this function to lock in those learned values, preventing the system from further adapting. This is an advanced procedure and not part of the standard repair.
• Ford IDS: PCM Reprogramming — Used by dealers to apply software updates for recalls like 19S07 and 19S19. This requires a stable power supply (12.6-13.5 volts) and an internet connection.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• TexAgs forum user '1agswitchin4lanes' (2013 Ford F-150 5.0L) — Wrench light and check engine light on, speedometer intermittently stops working, P0720 code present.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The user identified that the P0720 code was covered under Ford's warranty extension 19N01 for the molded lead frame. The recommended fix was to have the dealer replace the lead frame and simultaneously perform the software recall (19S07/19S19), which was confirmed by another user with the same issue.
• YouTube channel 'Home Built 86' (2015 Ford F-150 (demonstrates fix applicable to 2011-2013 6R80)) — Intermittent check engine light, truck would not downshift, then later experienced very hard downshifts from a stop. Code P0720 was stored.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The owner diagnosed the issue as a faulty molded lead frame based on information from other technicians. He replaced the molded lead frame, transmission filter, and fluid, which resolved the issue. He noted that metallic debris can get between the spade terminals on the lead frame and the solenoids, causing a short.

OEM Part Supersession History

• AL3Z-7G276-A, AL3Z-7G276-B → AL3Z-7G276-D — Revision and improvement of the part to address failure modes. The final letter in a Ford part number indicates the revision level.
  Heads up: The older revisions (-A, -B) should not be used; always purchase the latest revision (-D) from a reputable source to ensure you are not getting old, failure-prone stock.
• N/A → FL3Z-14B167-A — A foam insert/gasket that is installed with the new lead frame was not present on the original factory part but is recommended by Ford for the replacement procedure.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2011-2013: For the 2011 model year, the 6R80 transmission was revised with a new one-way clutch for smoother 1-2 upshifts and 2-1 downshifts compared to the 2009-2010 version. This does not directly affect the P0720 cause but is a notable internal change within the transmission's history.
• 2013: 2013 F-150s with 5.0L and 6.2L engines were subject to a second software recall, 19S19. The initial software update from recall 19S07 was found to be incomplete for these specific models, still leaving them at risk for an unintended downshift. The 19S19 recall provided the correct software patch.