Error code P0720 on cars Nissan - one of those problems that can cause headaches even for experienced car owners. This code indicates a problem in the circuit Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), which is responsible for transmitting data about driving speed to the electronic control unit (ECU). Without the correct operation of the sensor, not only the speedometer suffers, but also other critical systems: the gearbox (especially in automatic transmissions), cruise control, and in some models even the stabilization system ESP.

Owners Nissan Qashqai, X-Trail, Juke and other popular models often encounter this error after 100-150 thousand kilometers, but it can appear earlier - due to external factors or factory defects. In this article we will look at unique diagnostic features of P0720 on Nissan, which are not described in standard manuals, and we will also give step-by-step recommendations for eliminating the problem, taking into account the specifics of Japanese cars.

What does error P0720 mean on Nissan?

Code P0720 stands for «Output Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction» — malfunction of the output speed sensor circuit. Unlike a similar error P0500 (lack of sensor signal), here the problem lies precisely in electrical circuit, and not in the mechanical part of the sensor. This means that the culprit could be:

  • 🔌 Damaged wire or sensor connector
  • 🔋 Short circuit or break in the wiring harness
  • 🛠️ Malfunction of the speed sensor (VSS) itself
  • 🖥️ ECU malfunction (rare, but occurs)

On Nissan with automatic transmission (eg CVT in Qashqai J11 or X-Trail T32) error P0720 is often accompanied by jerky when changing gears, lamp lighting «Check Engine» and even the transmission going into emergency mode. In manual transmissions, the symptoms are less noticeable, but the speedometer may show incorrect values ​​or fail altogether.

⚠️ Attention: If the icon on the dashboard lights up «AT» (on slot machines) along with «Check Engine», stop immediately and turn off the engine. Further driving with such a malfunction may lead to gearbox damage, especially in models with CVT.

Symptoms of error code P0720 on Nissan

The manifestations of the error depend on the car model and transmission type. Here are the most common signs:

Symptom Nissan models where found Possible consequences
Speedometer does not work or shows zero speed Qashqai J10/J11, X-Trail T31/T32, Juke F15 Incorrect operation of the odometer (trip meter), problems with cruise control
Jerks when shifting gears (automatic transmission/CVT) Murano Z51/Z52, Pathfinder R52, Teana L33 Overheating of transmission fluid, accelerated wear of clutches
Lights up «Check Engine» And «AT» (on slot machines) Navara D40, NP300, Almera N18 Switching the box to emergency mode, limiting engine speed
The error only appears when driving at speeds >60 km/h GT-R R35, 370Z, Skyline V36/V37 Problems with the sensor at high speeds, possible wire break

Interesting fact: on some Nissan (For example, Note E12 or Micra K13) error P0720 may appear periodically - then disappear, then return. This is often associated with oxidation of contacts in the sensor connector or unstable power supply along the line +12V.

📊 Which Nissan model did you encounter the P0720 code on?
  • Qashqai
  • X-Trail
  • Juke
  • Murano
  • Other model

Causes of error P0720

To effectively fix a problem, you need to understand its root cause. On Nissan Code P0720 most often occurs due to:

  1. Mechanical damage to the speed sensor - for example, after hitting the gearbox housing or getting dirt/oil on the contacts. B CVT- in boxes the sensor is located especially vulnerable.
  2. Break or short circuit in the wiring — the wires from the sensor to the ECU often fray against the body or rub against moving parts of the suspension. A typical break location is near the sensor connector or in the harness under the hood.
  3. Oxidation of contacts — moisture and salt (in winter) penetrate the connectors, causing corrosion. Especially relevant for Nissan, operated in regions with a humid climate.
  4. ECU malfunctions - rarely, but the control unit may not process the sensor signal correctly. More often occurs after unqualified chip tuning.
  5. Weight problems — weak contact of the negative wire of the sensor with the body. On X-Trail T32 And Qashqai J11 The mass is often attached under a bolt near the battery - it needs to be checked first.

On vehicles with CVT (For example, Juke or Qashqai) error P0720 is often accompanied by a code P0715 — malfunction of the input speed sensor. This is due to the fact that CVTs use additional sensor to control the operation of the belt, and its chain may suffer from the same problems.

How to check the speed sensor ground?

To check the ground, disconnect the sensor connector and use a multimeter to test the negative contact (usually the black wire) on the car body. The resistance should be close to 0 ohms. If the reading is above 5 ohms, look for a poor connection at the ground attachment point (often under a bolt near the battery or on the gearbox).

Diagnosing error P0720: step-by-step instructions

Before rushing to change the sensor, you need to pinpoint the cause. To do this you will need a multimeter, scanner OBD-II (For example, ELM327) and a little patience. Here is the algorithm of actions:

Step 1: Reading Error Codes

Connect the scanner to the connector OBD-II (located under the steering wheel, to the left of the pedals) and count all the errors. If there are other codes besides P0720 (for example, P0715, P0730), write them down - this will help narrow down your search.

Step 2: Visual Inspection of the Sensor and Wiring

Find the speed sensor on your model Nissan:

  • 🔧 On Manual transmission - usually located on the gearbox, closer to the drive shaft.
  • 🔧 On Automatic transmission/CVT — there may be two sensors: one on the gearbox, the other on the differential.

Inspect the connector for oxidation and check the integrity of the wires. Please note isolation - if it is cracked, there is a high risk of a short circuit.

Step 3: Check the sensor with a multimeter

Disconnect the sensor connector and take the following measurements:

  1. Test the circuit between the sensor contacts and the ECU connector (look for the pin diagram in the manual for your model). Resistance must be within 0.5–1.5 kOhm.
  2. Check the sensor supply voltage (usually +12V on one of the contacts when the ignition is on).
  3. Measure the resistance of the sensor itself - for most Nissan it must be in the range 800–1400 Ohm.

Read all OBD-II errors|Inspect the connector and wires for damage|Check the sensor resistance (800–1400 Ohms)|Make sure there is +12V on the power supply|Ring the circuit to the ECU-->

Step 4: Check the signal with an oscilloscope (optional)

If you have access to an oscilloscope, connect it to the signal wire of the sensor (usually the middle pin) and spin the wheel (you can hang one wheel and spin it by hand). The screen should display pulse signal with a frequency proportional to the rotation speed. The absence of a signal or its instability will confirm that the sensor is faulty.

⚠️ Attention: On some Nissan (For example, GT-R or 370Z) speed sensor integrated into the unit ABS. In this case, specialized equipment will be required for diagnostics, since the signal is processed by the module ABS, and not directly from the engine ECU.

How to fix error code P0720 on Nissan

Depending on the cause, repair methods will vary. Let's look at the most effective solutions:

1. Cleaning contacts and restoring wiring

If the problem is oxidation or broken wires:

  • 🧹 Clean the sensor and ECU connector contacts using contact cleaner (For example, CRC Contact Cleaner).
  • 🔧 Replace damaged wires using heat shrink tubing for insulation.
  • 🔩 Check the reliability of the mass fastening (especially on Qashqai And X-Trail — the mass often comes off under the bolt near the battery).

2. Replacing the speed sensor

If the sensor is faulty, it must be replaced. For Nissan original sensors are suitable (28520-XXXX, where XXXX - model code) or analogues from Febi, Bosch, Valeo. When purchasing, pay attention to:

  • 🔍 Compatible with your transmission (manual/automatic/CVT).
  • 📏 Rod length - on some models (for example, Navara D40) sensors vary in size.
  • 🔌 Connector type - on old ones Nissan (until 2010) round connectors can be used, on new ones - flat ones.

💡

Before replacing the sensor, take a photo of its location and markings on the housing. On some Nissan (For example, Teana L33) The speed sensor is mounted in a hard-to-reach place, and re-installation without marks can be time consuming.

3. Repair or replacement of wiring harness

If the problem is in the wiring, you don't always need to replace the entire harness. Often it is enough:

  • 🔥 Replace the damaged section of the wire with soldered connections and heat shrink.
  • 🛠️ Install additional insulation in friction areas (for example, corrugated sleeve).
  • 🔌 Resolder the contacts in the connector if they have oxidized or come loose.

On Nissan with CVT Pay special attention to the wire going from the sensor to the transmission ECU - it often rubs against the box body.

4. Flashing or replacing the ECU

If all the previous steps did not help, and the P0720 code continues to appear, the problem may be control unit. In this case:

  • 🖥️ Try resetting the errors and reflashing the ECU (specialized equipment required).
  • 🔄 If the firmware does not help, the unit may need to be replaced. On Nissan The ECU often “dies” due to power surges or corrosion on the board.

💡

On vehicles with CVT (For example, Juke or Qashqai) after replacing the speed sensor it may be necessary box adaptation through a diagnostic scanner. Without this, the P0720 error may remain in the ECU memory.

Specifics of repairs on popular Nissan models

Each model Nissan has its own characteristics that should be taken into account when eliminating error P0720:

Nissan Qashqai (J10, J11) and X-Trail (T31, T32)

On these crossovers the speed sensor is located on the gearbox, closer to the right drive shaft. A common problem is oil ingress to the sensor connector due to a leak in the drive seal. When replacing the sensor it is recommended:

  • 🛢️ Check the condition of the oil seal and replace it if necessary.
  • 🔧 Use sealant for connectors (For example, Liqui Moly Kontakt-Spray) to prevent oxidation.

Nissan Juke (F15)

On Juke with CVT Trouble code P0720 is often accompanied by jerky when accelerating. The reason is not only the speed sensor, but also CVT input speed sensor (code P0715). In this case, both sensors need to be diagnosed. Also on Juke there is a problem with poor ground contact on the box - its mount is located under the heat shield, and access to it is difficult.

Nissan Navara (D40) and Pathfinder (R51, R52)

On these models, the speed sensor often fails due to vibrations and dirt ingress. Repair features:

  • 🚗 The sensor is located on the transfer case (for all-wheel drive versions), access to it is difficult.
  • 🔧 When replacing the sensor, be sure to check O-ring condition - its wear leads to moisture ingress.

Nissan GT-R (R35) and 370Z

On sports models, the speed sensor is integrated into the unit ABS, and its replacement requires special equipment for setup. Here the P0720 code often appears after chip tuning or installation of non-standard wheels (due to changes in diameter, which affects speed readings).

Prevention of error P0720

To avoid the error reappearing, follow these recommendations:

  • 🛡️ Check the condition of the connectors regularly speed sensor and ECU - clean them from dirt and oxidation.
  • 🔌 Monitor wiring integrity, especially in places where the harness passes close to moving parts of the suspension.
  • 🛢️ Monitor the level and cleanliness of the oil in the gearbox — its contact with the sensor accelerates failure.
  • 🔧 Avoid "artisanal" chip tuning, which can disrupt the operation of the ECU and lead to false errors.
  • 🚗 When replacing wheels with non-standard ones (with a different diameter), be sure to correct the speedometer readings using diagnostic equipment.

On vehicles with CVT (For example, Qashqai, X-Trail, Juke) recommended every 60 thousand km check the condition of the speed sensors and their wiring, since the variator is more sensitive to incorrect signals than a classic automatic transmission.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is it possible to drive with P0720?

Short term - yes, but with caution. On a manual transmission this is less critical (except for the speedometer not working), but on an automatic transmission (especially CVT) long-term driving with this error can lead to damage to the box due to incorrect gear shifting. The cruise control will also turn off and problems may arise. ESP.

How much does it cost to replace a speed sensor on a Nissan?

The cost depends on the model:

  • 💰 Original sensor: 3 000–8 000 ₽ (depending on the box model).
  • 💰 Analogue (Febi, Bosch): 1 500–4 000 ₽.
  • 💰 Replacement work: 1 000–3 000 ₽ (on CVT more expensive due to difficulty of access).

On GT-R or 370Z replacement may cost 15 000–25 000 ₽ due to the integration of the sensor into the block ABS.

Why does P0720 only appear at high speed?

This is a typical sign unstable contact in the sensor circuit. At high speeds, vibrations intensify, and if there is a microcrack somewhere in the wire or oxidation of the contact, the signal disappears. Most often the problem lies in:

  • 🔌 In the sensor connector (oxidation or poor fixation).
  • 🔧 At the place where the mass is attached (e.g., on X-Trail T32 the mass comes off under the bolt on the box).
  • 📉 In a damaged wire, which, when vibrating, shorts to ground.

Check the chain for variable resistance (you can move the wires with the ignition on and monitor the multimeter readings).

Can P0720 appear after washing the engine?

Yes, and this is one of the most common reasons! Water entering the sensor connector or ECU contacts causes a short circuit or corrosion. If the error appears after washing:

  1. 🚿 Dry the sensor and ECU connector thoroughly (compressed air can be used).
  2. 🔌 Process your contacts water-repellent lubricant (For example, WD-40 Specialist Contact Cleaner).
  3. 🔄 Reset the errors with the scanner - if the problem was a temporary short circuit, the P0720 code will disappear.

If the error persists, check the circuit for a short circuit.

Is it necessary to do an adaptation after replacing the speed sensor?

On most Nissan With a manual transmission or classic automatic transmission, no adaptation is required. However, on models with CVT (Qashqai, X-Trail, Juke, Murano) after replacing the sensor it is recommended:

  • 🖥️ Reset the adaptive settings of the box via a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch X431 or Bosch KTS).
  • 🔄 Spend training procedure (if provided by the manufacturer).

Without adaptation, the error may remain in the ECU memory, even if the sensor is working.