Ford Explorer Vehicle Speed Sensor Guide for 2011-2016 Models
Experiencing erratic shifting or a faulty speedometer? Your Explorer's speed sensor might be the culprit.
- A failing speed sensor can cause dangerous, sudden downshifts. Address symptoms immediately.
- The issue is often not the sensor itself, but the internal transmission lead frame, which is a complex and costly repair.
- Common fault codes are P0720 and P0722, which point to the output speed sensor circuit.
- For this repair, using the OEM Motorcraft part is strongly recommended to ensure reliability and avoid repeat labor costs.
Understanding Speed Sensor Issues in Your 2011-2016 Explorer
If you own a 2011-2016 Ford Explorer, a failing vehicle speed sensor can cause more than just an incorrect speedometer reading. It can lead to serious transmission problems that affect drivability and safety. Understanding the symptoms and your replacement options is key.
Key Failure Symptoms
A bad output speed sensor sends bad information to your vehicle's computer. This can cause a number of problems:
- Harsh or Erratic Shifting: The transmission may slam into gear, shift at the wrong times, or feel like it's slipping.
- Faulty Speedometer: The speedometer needle may jump around, read incorrectly, or not move at all. 🎬 Watch: How to replace rear ABS sensors on your Explorer.
- Check Engine or Wrench Light: A fault will often trigger a Check Engine Light, and sometimes the powertrain fault "wrench" light. Common trouble codes include P0720 and P0722.
- Cruise Control Failure: The cruise control system relies on speed data, so it may stop working.
Serious Safety Issue: Sudden Downshifting
A critical failure symptom linked to speed sensor faults in this generation of Ford vehicles is a sudden, unexpected downshift into first gear while driving. This can cause the rear wheels to lock up, potentially leading to a loss of vehicle control. This is a serious safety risk that requires immediate attention.
A Critical Known Issue: The Molded Lead Frame
Before you buy a replacement sensor, you need to understand a common issue with the 6-speed automatic transmissions in these Fords. In many cases, the Output Speed Sensor (OSS) and the Turbine Shaft Speed (TSS) sensor are not simple, externally-mounted parts. Instead, they are integrated into a component inside the transmission called the molded lead frame. When the sensor fails, the entire lead frame assembly must be replaced. 🎬 Watch this video to compare your lead frame repair options. This is a much more complex and expensive repair that requires a technician to remove the transmission pan and valve body. While Ford issued recalls for this issue on other models like the F-150, the underlying technology and symptoms are very similar in the Explorer.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Speed Sensor
When it comes to electronic parts on your Explorer, quality matters. Sticking with a reputable brand can save you from doing the job twice.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Tier 1 (OEM): Motorcraft
Motorcraft is Ford's own parts brand. For critical electronic components like a speed sensor or lead frame, Motorcraft is the safest choice. It guarantees perfect fitment and the same quality as the part your Explorer was built with. While it costs more, it provides the highest likelihood of a long-term fix. - Tier 2 (High-Quality Aftermarket): Delphi, NGK/NTK
Brands like Delphi and NGK (which sells sensors under the NTK brand name) are known for making high-quality parts that often meet or exceed original equipment standards. They are a solid, more affordable alternative to Motorcraft, especially if you are replacing a simple external sensor. - Tier 3 (Standard Aftermarket): Standard Ignition, Walker Products
These brands offer a budget-friendly option. User reviews for brands like Standard Motor Products (SMP) are often mixed, with some parts working perfectly and others failing prematurely. They can be a viable option for a quick fix, but may carry a higher risk compared to OEM or Tier 2 brands.
| Part Scenario | Part Cost (Estimate) | Shop Labor Cost (Estimate) | Total Cost (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| External Sensor Replacement | $25 - $75 | $90 - $180 | $115 - $255 |
| Internal Lead Frame Replacement | $250 - $600+ | $400 - $700+ | $650 - $1300+ |
Pro Tip: Given the high labor cost for a lead frame replacement, spending extra for the OEM Motorcraft part is a smart investment to avoid a repeat failure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the vehicle speed sensor located on a 2011-2016 Explorer?
There are multiple speed sensors. The main ones for the transmission are the Input (TSS) and Output (OSS) sensors. They are located on or inside the transmission. In many cases, they are part of the internal lead frame, accessible only by removing the transmission pan and valve body.
What's the difference between an input and output speed sensor?
The Input Shaft Speed (TSS) sensor measures the speed of the transmission's input shaft (from the engine). The Output Shaft Speed (OSS) sensor measures the speed of the output shaft (to the wheels). The OSS is what the computer uses to determine vehicle speed and control the speedometer. Fault codes like P0720 and P0722 specifically point to the output sensor circuit.
Is replacing the speed sensor a DIY job?
It depends entirely on the location. If the sensor is mounted externally on the transmission case, it is a relatively easy DIY job for someone with basic tools (Difficulty: 2/5). However, if your Explorer requires the replacement of the internal lead frame, it is a complex job best left to a professional mechanic (Difficulty: 5/5).
🎬 See a full DIY tutorial on replacing the internal lead frame.Do I need to replace both the input and output sensors at the same time?
Not necessarily. You should diagnose the problem and replace the specific sensor that has failed. Diagnostic trouble codes will usually point to either the input or output sensor circuit. However, if you are replacing the internal lead frame, both the TSS and OSS sensors will be replaced as part of the new assembly.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: DY-1224 DY-1220 9L8Z-7H103-B 7T4Z7M101A 8A8Z7M101A AA5Z7M101A DY-1253
The primary sensor is the Output Shaft Speed (OSS) sensor for the 6F50 or 6F55 6-speed automatic transmission. It may be an individual external sensor or part of the internal molded lead frame assembly.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford Explorer:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Understanding Speed Sensor Issues in Your 2011-2016 Explorer
- Key Failure Symptoms
- Serious Safety Issue: Sudden Downshifting
- A Critical Known Issue: The Molded Lead Frame
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Speed Sensor
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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