P0722 on 2007-2014 Ford Edge: Output Speed Sensor Failure Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2007-2014 Ford Edge

A critical distinction for the first-generation Ford Edge is that both the Output Speed Sensor (OSS) and Turbine Speed Sensor (TSS) are located *inside* the 6F50 transmission housing, requiring removal of the side cover and valve body for access. This makes the repair significantly more complex than on vehicles with externally mounted sensors. Early models, particularly those built before October 21, 2007, are known for this issue, as documented in Ford's Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 07-21-11. The TSB explicitly states to replace the faulty sensor, not the PCM, as the cause is typically an intermittent short within the sensor itself.

Generation note: This range covers the entire first generation of the Ford Edge (2007-2010) and its facelift (2011-2014), all of which use the 6F50 transmission. 🎬 See this explanation of 6F50 sensor failures The most well-documented issue via TSB 07-21-11 applies to the early 2007-2008 models built before 10/21/2007, but the sensor can fail on any year in this range due to the shared design.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Wrench light may illuminate
• Harsh, erratic, or delayed shifting
• Transmission stuck in a single gear (limp mode), often 5th gear
• Speedometer reads 0 MPH or behaves erratically while driving
• Sudden shudder or jerk, followed by a loss of power
• Cruise control not working
• ABS or Traction Control warning lights may illuminate

Most Likely Causes

1. Failed Internal Output Speed Sensor (OSS) 🔴 High Probability Early production models (2007-2008) had a known issue with this sensor, as documented in Ford TSB 07-21-11, which points to an intermittent short in the sensor. The sensor is a common failure point across the entire generation due to its location inside the transmission, subject to heat and fluid contamination. NHTSA ODI #10854517 confirms a case where a dealer retrieved code P0722 and found both the OSS and TSS sensors had shorted.
   How to confirm: After confirming the wiring is intact, observing the OSS PID on a live data scan tool is the best confirmation. If the scan tool shows 0 RPM from the OSS while the vehicle is moving, the sensor has failed. The sensor itself is located inside the transmission under the main valve body.
   Typical fix: Replace the Output Speed Sensor. It is highly recommended to replace the Turbine Speed Sensor (TSS) at the same time, as it is located nearby, subjected to the same conditions, and requires the same significant labor to access. 🎬 Watch: Step-by-step TSS and OSS replacement walkthrough This also requires draining the transmission fluid and replacing the side cover gasket.
   Est. part cost: $30-$60
2. Damaged Wiring or Connector 🟡 Medium Probability While the sensor itself is internal, the external wiring harness leading to the transmission case can be subject to damage from road debris, heat, or corrosion at the main connector.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the main transmission wiring harness and connector for any signs of corrosion, chafing, breaks, or loose pins. Perform a continuity test on the wiring between the transmission connector and the PCM/TCM.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wiring harness or replace the main transmission connector pigtail.
   Est. part cost: $15-$40

Rare But Worth Checking

• Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Transmission Control Module (TCM) Fault: → Shop Engine Control Module (ECM) This is rare. TSB 07-21-11 specifically advises against replacing the PCM for this code until the sensor has been ruled out. However, NHTSA ODI #10965788 describes an instance where an owner spent $2,300 on various repairs including an ECM/PCM reflash, only for the vehicle to die 20 miles later with P0720 and P0722 errors still present.
• Internal Transmission Failure: → Shop Transmission Assembly In some cases, metal debris from an internal failure can contaminate the magnetic tip of the speed sensor, disrupting its signal. This would typically be accompanied by other serious transmission symptoms like loud noises, slipping, and burnt-smelling fluid.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Read the trouble codes with an OBD-II scanner. Note any other transmission-related codes.
2. Use a scan tool with live data capability to monitor the Output Speed Sensor (OSS) and Turbine Speed Sensor (TSS) PIDs. The OSS signal should read 0 when stopped and increase smoothly with vehicle speed. If it stays at 0 while moving, there is a problem.
3. Check the transmission fluid level and condition. Dark, burnt, or metallic fluid can indicate a larger internal problem.
4. Inspect the main transmission wiring harness and connector for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
5. If the external wiring appears okay, the next step is internal inspection. This is an advanced procedure.
6. Drain the transmission fluid and remove the driver-side front wheel and inner fender liner for access.
7. Remove the transmission side cover (end cover). The TSS sensor is located in this cover. 🎬 Watch: How to remove and install the sensors The OSS sensor is located deeper inside, under the main valve body.
8. If following TSB 07-21-11 for an early model, replace the indicated sensor (OSS for P0722). It is best practice to replace both the OSS and TSS sensors at this time.
9. Reassemble with a new side cover gasket and refill with the correct type and amount of Motorcraft MERCON LV automatic transmission fluid.
10. If the problem persists after sensor replacement, perform a continuity test on the wiring from the transmission connector to the PCM. If the wiring is good, the issue may be with the PCM, which requires advanced diagnostics.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Transmission Output Speed Sensor (OSS) (OEM #8A8Z-7H103-A) — This sensor is the most common cause of a P0722 code on this vehicle, with a known history of failure noted in Ford TSB 07-21-11. This part number has been superseded by AA5Z-7H103-B. NHTSA ODI #10861794 notes a successful repair where a dealer diagnosed the output shaft sensor (no signal P0722) and replaced the sensor to resolve the failure.
  Trusted brands: Motorcraft, Standard Motor Products (SMP), NTK
  OEM price range: $50-$70
  Aftermarket price range: $30-$50
• Transmission Turbine Speed Sensor (TSS) (OEM #8A8Z-7M101-A) — Highly recommended to replace at the same time as the OSS. It is located in the same area, subject to the same conditions, and requires the same labor to access. Failure of this sensor can cause similar symptoms and codes like P0715.
  Trusted brands: Motorcraft, Standard Motor Products (SMP)
  OEM price range: $50-$70
  Aftermarket price range: $30-$50
• Transmission Side Cover Gasket — The side cover of the transmission must be removed to access the sensors, requiring a new gasket upon reassembly to prevent leaks.
  Trusted brands: Ford, Fel-Pro
  OEM price range: $20-$30
  Aftermarket price range: $10-$20
• Motorcraft MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid (OEM #XT-10-QLVC) — The transmission must be drained to perform the repair. A refill will require approximately 5-7 quarts. Using the correct OEM-spec fluid is critical for transmission health.
  Trusted brands: Motorcraft
  OEM price range: $8-$12 per quart

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0720 — P0720 indicates an erratic signal from the Output Speed Sensor, while P0722 indicates no signal at all. A sensor may fail intermittently (P0720) before failing completely (P0722). Both are mentioned in TSB 07-21-11.
• P0715 — This code relates to the Turbine/Input Shaft Speed (TSS) Sensor. Since the TSS and OSS sensors work together, are located in the same internal environment, and are addressed by the same TSB, it's common for them to fail around the same time or for a wiring issue to affect both circuits.
• P0717 — Similar to P0715, this code indicates no signal from the Turbine Speed Sensor (TSS). It often appears alongside P0722 when there is a sensor failure or a broader electrical issue within the transmission.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• TSB 07-21-11: Addresses harsh engagements, no upshift, and DTCs including P0722 on 6F50 transaxles built prior to 10/21/2007, recommending sensor replacement instead of PCM replacement.
• TSB 07-3-11: As cited in NHTSA ODI #10692963, this bulletin addresses 6F50 transaxles built prior to 1/1/2007 exhibiting DTCs P0715, P0717, P0718, P0720, P0721, P0722 and/or symptoms like harsh engagement, no upshift, or being limited to fifth gear only.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• TSB 07-21-11 was issued for 2007-2008 models with the 6F50 transmission built before 10/21/2007 that exhibit codes P0722, P0720, and others. The bulletin points to an intermittent short in the OSS or TSS sensor and advises replacement of the affected sensor.
• The internal location of the OSS and TSS sensors is a key characteristic of this platform's 6F50 transmission, turning a simple sensor replacement into a significant labor-intensive repair.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Ground Circuit Resistance — expected: Less than 5 Ω. Failure: A reading higher than 5 Ω indicates a poor ground connection, which can cause sensor signal issues.
• Sensor Reference Voltage (Key On, Engine Off) — expected: Approximately 5V at the harness connector (for Hall-effect type sensors). Failure: Missing or significantly lower voltage points to a wiring or PCM/TCM fault, not a bad sensor.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Ford IDS, FORScan, or equivalent professional scanner: Clear Transmission Adaptive Tables (or Reset All Default Adaptations) — This procedure is critical after replacing the OSS/TSS sensors or performing any major transmission repair. Failing to reset the learned shift strategy can result in continued harsh or erratic shifting even with new parts.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• C168 — The main external vehicle harness connector at the transmission case.. This is the primary connection point for all transmission electronics, including the OSS. Testing for power, ground, and signal continuity to the PCM/TCM begins at this connector.
• Main Engine/Chassis Grounds — Key grounding points are located on the front bumper support and on the engine block/cylinder head, connecting the main harness to the chassis.. A poor ground connection for the PCM/TCM can introduce electrical noise or voltage drops, potentially causing false sensor codes like P0722.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube user MACTFORDEDGE (2008 Ford Edge) — Transmission issues requiring the vehicle to be towed.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The TSS (Turbine Speed Sensor) and OSS (Output Speed Sensor) inside the transmission failed while on a road trip. The vehicle was towed to a shop where the sensors were replaced, which resolved the issue. The repair cost was approximately $700-$800.
• NHTSA ODI #10627285 — An owner reported that a local Ford service department pulled codes P0720 and P0722 and followed TSB 07-21-11. Despite replacing the Output Speed Sensor and Turbine Speed Sensor, the owner noted the problem still persisted in their specific case.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 8A8Z-7H103-A → AA5Z-7H103-B — Standard part revision and consolidation by the manufacturer. The new part number replaces several older versions.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2011-2014: The Ford Edge received a significant facelift for the 2011 model year, which included powertrain updates. The 3.5L V6 was revised for more power (285 hp vs 265 hp), and a 3.7L V6 (305 hp) was added for the Sport model. While the 6F50 transmission remained, it underwent internal modulations and changes for refinement. These changes do not fundamentally alter the P0722 diagnosis, as the internal sensor location remains the same.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Other Known Issues on This Vehicle

Issues unrelated to this code that are worth knowing about as an owner of this generation:

• Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Leak / Failure 🔴 High — Common on AWD models. Leaks can start around 70,000-100,000 miles. The unit has a small fluid capacity and no drain plug, leading to overheating and failure if leaks are ignored. (Ref: TSB 09-25-7 addresses PTU seal leaks on 2007-2010 models.)
• Faulty Brake Booster 🔴 High — Prevalent on 2007-2015 models. A tear in the diaphragm causes a hissing noise and a hard or spongy brake pedal. (Ref: Ford issued Customer Satisfaction Program 13N02, extending warranty coverage for the brake booster to 10 years/150,000 miles.)
• Door Ajar Sensor Failure 🟠 Medium — Extremely common across the generation, particularly in 2011-2013 models. The sensor within the door latch fails, causing the 'Door Ajar' light to stay on, draining the battery.
• Water Leaks into Cabin 🟠 Medium — Reported in 2007-2014 models, often from a poorly sealed body seam at the A-pillar, causing wet carpets and potential mold issues. (Ref: A related issue prompted a stop-sale and customer satisfaction program for early 2015 models.)
• Leaking Water Pump (3.5L/3.7L V6) 🔴 High — The internally-mounted, timing chain-driven water pump can fail. When it does, coolant often leaks into the engine oil, leading to catastrophic engine failure if not caught immediately. This is a very expensive repair.

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide for This Vehicle

When a used part is the smart pick: For this specific repair, using a used part is almost never a smart choice. The labor to access the sensor is extensive (4-6 hours). The risk of a used sensor failing shortly after installation far outweighs the small cost savings over a new part.

Donor-vehicle mileage cap: roughly under 15000 miles for the part to have meaningful remaining life.

What to inspect on the donor part:

• If considering a used transmission assembly due to a larger failure, verify the donor vehicle's mileage and history.
• Inspect the transmission fluid from the donor unit. It should be bright red and not smell burnt.
• Look for a service history or warranty from the salvage yard.

OEM-only on this vehicle (don't cheap out):

• Transmission Speed Sensors (OSS and TSS): Given the high labor cost for access, using OEM Motorcraft parts is strongly recommended to ensure longevity and prevent a repeat failure.

Aftermarket brands forum-validated for this vehicle:

• Standard Motor Products (SMP)
• NTK

Brands owners have reported issues with on this vehicle:

• Unknown, no-name brands from online marketplaces should be avoided due to questionable quality control for this critical, hard-to-access component.

Real Owner Stories

Aggregated from forums and TSBs cited above. Mileages and costs reflect what owners reported in those sources.

Related OBD-II Codes

• P0720 — Often appears alongside P0722; both relate to Output Speed Sensor circuit malfunctions as noted in TSB 07-21-11.
• P0715 — Relates to the Turbine Speed Sensor (TSS), which is located near the OSS and often fails under the same conditions (heat and fluid contamination).
• P0717 — A Turbine Speed Sensor circuit code that may trigger the same 'limp mode' and harsh shifting symptoms seen with P0722.

Frequently Asked Questions