Ford Taurus Transmission Output Speed Sensor Guide (2013-2019)
Experiencing harsh shifts or a dead speedometer in your Taurus? The output speed sensor could be the culprit.
- The sensor is INTERNAL on the 2013-2019 Taurus, making replacement a job for a professional.
- Symptoms include harsh shifting, a faulty speedometer, and a Check Engine Light with codes P0720 or P0722.
- Driving with a bad sensor is not recommended as it can be unsafe and may cause further transmission damage.
- Due to the high labor cost, using a high-quality OEM (Motorcraft) or premium aftermarket (NGK/NTK) part is strongly advised.
Is Your Taurus Shifting Strangely?
If your 2013-2019 Ford Taurus has started shifting hard, the speedometer is acting erratically, or your cruise control won't turn on, a failing Automatic Transmission Output Shaft Speed Sensor (OSS) is a likely suspect. This sensor sends vital speed data to your car's computer. When it fails, the computer gets confused, leading to noticeable transmission problems. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to poor fuel economy and potentially more serious transmission damage down the road.
Critical Repair Information for 2013-2019 Taurus
Unlike many other vehicles where the speed sensor is an easy-to-access external part, the Output Shaft Speed Sensor on the 6F50/6F55 transmission in this generation of Ford Taurus is internal. It is located inside the transmission, attached to the valve body's lead frame. 🎬 See this walkthrough of the internal sensor removal and installation This means replacing it is a complex job that requires draining the transmission fluid, dropping the transmission pan, and removing the valve body. This is not a simple DIY task for most home mechanics.
Symptoms of a Failing Output Speed Sensor
- Harsh or Erratic Shifting: The most common symptom is the transmission slamming into gear, hesitating, or shifting at the wrong times. It might feel like the transmission is slipping or getting stuck in one gear.
- Erratic or Inoperative Speedometer: The speedometer may jump around, read an incorrect speed, or stop working altogether.
- Check Engine Light: A failing OSS will almost always trigger the Check Engine Light, storing diagnostic trouble codes like P0720 or P0722. 🎬 Watch: Understanding the causes and fixes for code P0720
- Cruise Control Not Working: The cruise control system relies on accurate speed data from the OSS, so it will not function if the sensor is bad.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When replacing an internal transmission component, using a quality part is critical to avoid doing the job twice. You have several good options for your Taurus.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Tier 1: OEM (Motorcraft)
Motorcraft is Ford's official parts brand. Choosing Motorcraft guarantees a perfect fit and function, identical to the part your car was built with. For a critical, internal part like this, sticking with the OEM is often the safest choice to avoid any compatibility issues. - Tier 2: Premium Aftermarket (NGK/NTK)
NGK (under their NTK sensor brand) is a highly respected manufacturer that is often an original equipment supplier for many automakers. Their sensors are known for high quality and reliability, making them an excellent alternative to the OEM part. Many professionals trust NTK sensors to perform as well as the original. - Tier 3: Quality Aftermarket (Standard Ignition)
Standard Motor Products (SMP), sold under the Standard Ignition brand, is a long-standing aftermarket leader. They produce reliable parts that meet or exceed OEM specifications. A Standard sensor is a solid, cost-effective choice that you can trust to perform correctly.
Pro Tip: Because this sensor is internal, the cost of labor is much higher than the cost of the part. To avoid paying for the same repair twice, we strongly recommend using a high-quality sensor from Motorcraft or NGK/NTK.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace the output speed sensor in a 2013-2019 Taurus is higher than you might expect due to its internal location. The transmission pan and valve body must be removed for access.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Motorcraft) Part | $70 - $120 |
| New Aftermarket Part | $52 - $92 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $250 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $220 - $370 |
Cost estimates are approximate and can vary by location and repair shop. Does not include cost of new transmission fluid and gasket.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the Taurus output speed sensor myself?
For the 2013-2019 Ford Taurus, this is not recommended for beginners. The sensor is located inside the transmission and requires removing the pan and valve body. This is a complex and messy job that is best left to a professional mechanic unless you have significant transmission repair experience.
Is it safe to drive with a bad output speed sensor?
It is not recommended. While the car may still move, you will experience unpredictable and harsh shifting, which can be a safety hazard in traffic. Continued driving can also put extra strain on your transmission, potentially leading to more severe damage.
Are there any recalls for this issue on the Ford Taurus?
No, there are no specific recalls for the output shaft speed sensor on the 2013-2019 Ford Taurus. However, Ford has issued recalls and service bulletins for similar issues on other vehicles using the same family of 6-speed transmissions, indicating they are aware of potential sensor problems.
How do I know it's the sensor and not the whole transmission?
A professional diagnosis is key. A mechanic will use a diagnostic scanner to read the trouble codes (like P0720 or P0722) and view live data from the sensor. 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose a P0722 no signal code While a bad sensor can make it feel like the transmission is failing, the specific codes and data patterns usually point directly to the sensor or its wiring as the root cause.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 8A8Z-7H103-A
This sensor is located internally on the transmission's main control (valve body) lead frame. It is not accessible from the outside of the transmission case.
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.
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