P0723 Code: Output Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent

What the P0723 code means

The output speed sensor measures the speed of the shaft that goes to the wheels. On many vehicles it is also the source for the speedometer and the cruise control.

The sensor generates pulses whose frequency depends on the speed or the quantity being measured. Intermittent dropouts are almost always caused by a poor contact or a damaged wire. That is what sets the P0723 code.

Without this signal the transmission goes into limp mode and the speedometer can drop to zero. Also check for ABS codes, because some vehicles combine both signals. See the sensor guide to learn how to test it.

Intermittent faults are found by reproducing them: with the engine running and the scan tool in graph mode, move the wiring harness section by section, tap the connector gently and, if needed, warm the area with a hair dryer or spray the connector with water. The point where the reading jumps is the point of the fault.

P0723 code symptoms

• Check engine light on.
• Limp mode and a wrong speedometer.
• Speedometer dead or erratic.
• The transmission does not shift.

Likely causes of the P0723 code

1. Poor contact in the connector, with loose or backed-out pins.
2. Wire broken inside the insulation, which opens the circuit with vibration.
3. Harness rubbing on moving or hot parts.
4. Sensor with an intermittent fault, often related to temperature.

How to diagnose the P0723 code step by step

1. Read the sensor value on the scan tool and compare it with what is expected.
2. Inspect the connector for corrosion, water and loose pins.
3. Check power and ground with the key on: a correct reference and less than 0.1 volt drop on the ground.
4. Measure the signal with the connector plugged in and see whether it changes with the condition.
5. Do a wiggle test of the wiring with the scan tool in graph mode.
6. Check the continuity of each wire back to the computer (under 1 ohm).
7. Compare it with the ABS wheel speeds on the scan tool.

How to fix the P0723 code

• Repair the connector or the wiring.
• Replace the sensor if the tests confirm it is bad.
• Correct the real condition if there is one.
• Clear the P0723 code and verify with a road test.

Technical reference data

• Inductive or Hall effect sensor; the frequency is proportional to speed.
• Reference values only: check the manufacturer data for your vehicle.

Brand-specific notes

The source reports this code as frequent on pickup trucks with an automatic transmission.

P0723 on Ford

Frequent on Ford pickups with an automatic transmission.

P0723 on GM

Frequent on GM pickups with an automatic transmission.

Frequently asked questions about P0723