Error P0720 on Nissan: a complete analysis of causes and solutions

Error code P0720 on cars Nissan - one of the most common problems associated with transmission operation. It indicates a malfunction in the control system output shaft speed sensor (Output Speed Sensor, OSS) or its circuits. Depending on the model - be it Qashqai, X-Trail, Juke or Navara — the consequences of ignoring this error can vary from minor jerks when changing gears to complete gearbox failure.

In this article we will look in detail at what exactly it means. error P0720 on Nissan with CVT or automatic transmissionwhat symptoms accompany it, and how to diagnose it yourself. We will pay special attention to typical causes - from banal oxidation of contacts to serious problems with solenoids or the mechanical part of the transmission. You will also find step-by-step instructions on how to reset the error and recommendations on when to contact service and when you can handle it on your own.

What does the P0720 code mean on Nissan?

Code P0720 in the diagnostic system OBD-II stands for "Output Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction" - Malfunction of the output shaft speed sensor circuit. This sensor is responsible for transmitting data about the speed of rotation of the transmission output shaft to the transmission control unit (TCM). Based on this data TCM adjusts gear shift moments, torque converter lock-up (in automatic transmissions) or changes the gear ratio (in CVTs) Nissan).

If the sensor fails or the signal from it becomes unstable, the control unit records the error and can put the transmission into emergency mode. In this case, the car will move only in 3rd gear (for automatic transmissions) or with a fixed gear ratio (for CVTs), which leads to increased fuel consumption and loss of dynamics.

• 🔧 For automatic transmission: The error is often accompanied by jerks when switching, delays or the inability to engage certain gears.
• 🔄 For CVTs: May manifest itself as “kicks” during acceleration, belt slipping or complete blocking of the box.
• ⚠️ For all-wheel drive models (For example, X-Trail or Pathfinder): A sensor malfunction can affect the torque distribution between the axles.

It is important to understand that P0720 - this is not a verdict, but only an indication of a problem in the sensor circuit. The reasons can be either simple (for example, a broken wire) or complex (a malfunction of the TCM). Next, we will look at how to accurately determine the source of the malfunction.

Symptoms of error code P0720 on Nissan

Error P0720 rarely appears on its own - it is usually accompanied by noticeable changes in the behavior of the car. Here are the most common signs that should alert you:

• ⚡ "Check Engine" light comes on (Check Engine) on the dashboard, sometimes in combination with a transmission indicator (such as "AT" or "CVT").
• 🚗 Jerks or impacts when changing gears, especially when cold or when accelerating.
• 🛑 Emergency mode of the box: The car gets stuck in one gear (usually 3rd) and does not respond to the position of the selector.
• 🔊 Unusual sounds out of the box: hum, grinding or howling, especially at high speeds.
• 📉 Power drop and increased fuel consumption due to suboptimal gear ratios.

On some models Nissan (For example, Qashqai J11 or X-Trail T32) the error can only appear under certain conditions - for example, when driving uphill or when towing a trailer. This is due to increased load on the transmission, which makes sensor failure more noticeable.

⚠️ Attention: If together with P0720 errors appear P0715 (Input Speed Sensor) or P0730 (incorrect gear ratio), this may indicate more serious problems with the gearbox that require immediate diagnosis.

To accurately understand whether the problem is with the sensor or with other components of the transmission, it is necessary to carry out diagnostics. Read about how to do this yourself in the next section.

How to diagnose the P0720 code yourself

Diagnosis of the error P0720 starts with reading fault codes using a scanner OBD-II. Even an inexpensive adapter (for example, ELM327) and an application on a smartphone (for example, Torque Pro or OBDeleven) will allow you to obtain primary information. However, in-depth diagnostics may require professional equipment such as Launch X431 or Bosch KTS.

Here is a step-by-step verification algorithm:

1. Count all the mistakes from memory ECU And TCM. If in addition P0720 there are other codes (for example, P0700 - general transmission malfunction), write them down for a comprehensive analysis.
2. Check sensor wiring:
   • 🔌 Disconnect the sensor connector (usually located on the gearbox housing).
   • 🔍 Inspect the contacts for oxidation, corrosion or mechanical damage.
   • 📏 Check the integrity of the wires from the sensor to the control unit (use a multimeter in the “test” mode).
3. Measure the sensor resistance:
   • 📊 Normal output shaft speed sensor resistance Nissan usually amounts to 800–1400 Ohm (check exact values for your model).
   • 🔋 Also check the voltage at the sensor connector with the ignition on (there should be 5 V on the signal wire).
4. Inspect the mechanical part:
   • 🔗 Make sure that the sensor is tightly secured and has no play.
   • 🛠️ Check for metal shavings or dirt on the magnetic part of the sensor (this may indicate wear on the bearings or gears of the box).

If the sensor and wiring are ok, the problem may lie in the transmission control module (TCM) or in the mechanical part of the box. In this case, you cannot do without professional diagnostics.

Parameter	Normal value	Symptom of malfunction
OSS sensor resistance	800–1400 Ohm	Open (∞) or short circuit (0 ohm)
Signal wire voltage	5 V (with ignition on)	No voltage or below 4.5 V
Signal frequency during shaft rotation	Proportional to speed (e.g. 20 Hz at 20 km/h)	No signal or unstable
Wire insulation resistance	More than 1 MOhm	Below 100 kOhm (leakage to ground)

If after checking the sensor is found to be faulty, it must be replaced. Read about how to do this in the next section.

Replacing the output shaft speed sensor on a Nissan

Replacing the sensor OSS (Output Speed Sensor) on most models Nissan - a procedure that can be performed independently with a minimum set of tools. However, there are nuances depending on the type of gearbox and car model.

Here's what you'll need:

• 🔧 A set of sockets and keys (usually a socket is required 10 mm or 12 mm).
• 🔨 Screwdriver with a flat blade (for removing connector clamps).
• 🧤 Gloves and rags (the sensor may be contaminated with transmission fluid).
• 📦 New sensor (original number for Nissan - usually 31396-XXXX, where XXXX depends on the model).

Step by step instructions:

1. Preparation:
   • 🅿️ Place the car on a flat surface and secure the wheels.
   • 🔋 Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery (to avoid short circuit).
2. Sensor access:
   • 🚗 On most models (for example, Qashqai J10/J11) the sensor is located on the gearbox housing on the right drive shaft side (when viewed in the direction of travel).
   • 🔍 On CVTs Nissan (For example, Juke or Note) the sensor can be hidden under the air intake or protection.
3. Removing the old sensor:
   • 🔌 Disconnect the sensor connector by pressing the latch.
   • 🔧 Unscrew the sensor with a wrench (do not use excessive force - the thread may be fragile!).
4. Installing a new sensor:
   • 🧼 Clean the seat from dirt and old sealant.
   • 🔩 Carefully screw in the new sensor without overtightening (the tightening torque is usually 8–12 Nm).
   • 🔌 Connect the connector and make sure that the lock is latched.
5. Check:
   • 🔋 Connect the battery and reset the errors with the scanner.
   • 🚗 Carry out a test drive, paying attention to the smoothness of switching.

⚠️ Attention: On some models (eg X-Trail T31 with variator JF011E) The output shaft speed sensor is integrated into the solenoid block. In this case, replacement requires removing the box tray and can only be performed by a service center.

If after replacing the sensor the error P0720 continues to appear, the problem may lie in the control unit TCM or in the mechanical part of the box. In this case, a more in-depth diagnosis will be required.

Other Possible Causes of P0720

If the diagnostics showed that the sensor and its wiring are in order, and the error P0720 still appears, it is worth considering other possible reasons:

• 🔧 Malfunction of the transmission control unit (TCM):
  • Firmware problems or hardware failures in TCM may lead to false errors.
  • On some models (for example, Nissan Almera N16) TCM sensitive to voltage surges in the on-board network.
• 🔄 Worn or damaged gears in the box:
  • If the teeth of the gear that the sensor reads from are worn or broken, the signal will be unstable.
  • This problem is often accompanied by metal shavings in the transmission fluid.
• 📶 Problems with box weight:
  • Oxidation or breakage of the ground wire can lead to incorrect operation of the sensors.
  • Check the integrity of the ground wire going from the box to the body (usually attached to the box with a bolt on 10 mm).
• 🛢️ Contaminated or old transmission fluid:
  • In CVTs Nissan (For example, JF011E or RE0F10A) contaminated fluid can lead to unstable operation of solenoids and sensors.
  • Recommended fluid change interval - every 60,000 km (or once every 4 years).

On cars with high mileage (150,000+ km) the error P0720 may be due to natural wear and tear of the box. In this case, replacing the sensor will only provide a temporary effect, and the transmission will soon need to be repaired or replaced.

How to check TCM on Nissan?

To check the transmission control unit (TCM) you will need a professional scanner capable of reading parameters in real time (for example, Launch X431). Please pay attention to the following parameters:

- Supply voltage TCM (should be stable 12 V).

- Signals from speed sensors (should change smoothly when moving).

- Transmission fluid temperature (overheating may indicate problems with the solenoids).

If TCM is faulty, you can try to reflash it or replace it with a new one (original number, for example, 28490-XXXX).

How to reset P0720 after repair

After eliminating the cause of the error P0720 it must be reset from the control unit memory. This can be done in several ways:

1. Using a scanner OBD-II:
   • 📱 Connect the scanner to the diagnostic connector (usually located under the steering wheel).
   • 🔍 Select the "Erase errors" function (Clear DTCs).
   • 🚗 Start the car and check if the error appears again.
2. Reset by disconnecting the battery:
   • ⚡ Disconnect the negative battery terminal at 10–15 minutes.
   • 🔄 This will reset adaptations TCM and removing temporary errors.
   • ⚠️ Attention: On some models (eg Nissan Juke with CVT) after such a reset it may be necessary throttle adaptation procedure.
3. Reset via the service menu (for some models):
   • 🔧 On some cars (for example, Nissan Teana J32) errors can be reset through a hidden service menu, activated by a combination of buttons on the dashboard.
   • 📋 Please check the exact sequence of actions for your model.

If the error appears again after a reset, it means the problem is not completely resolved. In this case, it is recommended to carry out repeated diagnostics or contact service.

💡

Resetting the error without eliminating its cause does not solve the problem! If P0720 returns, it is necessary to look deeper for the source of the malfunction - in the wiring, TCM or box mechanics.

When to contact the service: difficult cases

Some error situations P0720, require professional intervention. Here are signs that DIY repairs may only make the problem worse:

• 🔧 The error is accompanied by a metallic grinding or knocking sound. out of the box - this may indicate damage to the bearings or gears.
• 📉 The transmission is overheating (liquid temperature is higher 120°C), which can be seen on the scanner or by the characteristic burning smell.
• 🛑 The car does not move forward or backward, or gear shifts are completely absent.
• 💻 Diagnostics shows multiple errors (P0715, P0730, P0776 etc.), which indicates complex problems.
• 🔄 After replacing the sensor and resetting, the error returns within the first 50 km.

The service uses professional equipment for diagnostics, such as:

• 🔧 Oscilloscope — for analyzing sensor signals in real time.
• 📊 Specialized scanners (Nissan Consult, Launch) - for deep reading of parameters TCM.
• 🔍 Endoscope - to inspect the internal parts of the box without disassembling it.

The cost of diagnostics in the service is usually 1,500–3,000 rubles, and repairs (if the box is worn out) can cost 50,000–150,000 rubles depending on the model and type of transmission.

⚠️ Attention: On cars with CVTs Nissan (For example, Qashqai J11 or X-Trail T32) ignoring the error P0720 may lead to overheating and failure of the variator beltwhich will require expensive repairs.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about error code P0720 on Nissan

Is it possible to drive with P0720?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. The car may move in emergency mode, which increases the load on the transmission and fuel consumption. Driving for a long time with this error can lead to serious damage to the gearbox, especially if the problem is related to the mechanical part.

How much does an output shaft speed sensor cost on a Nissan?

Cost of the original sensor OSS for Nissan varies from 2,500 to 6,000 rubles depending on the model. Analogs (for example, Febi or Blue Print) can be found for 1,500–3,000 rubles. For CVTs, the sensor may be more expensive due to integration with the solenoid block.

Could P0720 be caused by bad fuel?

No, directly - no. However, low-quality fuel can affect engine performance, which indirectly affects the load on the transmission. If together with P0720 there are errors in the engine (for example, P0300 - misfire), this can aggravate the problem.

How often does the transmission fluid in a Nissan CVT need to be changed?

For CVTs Nissan (For example, JF011E or RE0F10A) recommended fluid change interval - every 60,000 km or once every 4 years. Under severe operating conditions (towing, off-road, city traffic jams), the interval should be reduced to 40,000 km.

Could P0720 be caused by TCM firmware?

Yes, in rare cases the error may appear after a failed firmware update TCM or when using unofficial software. In this case, the unit must be reflashed in the service using original software from Nissan.