Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Transmission Output Speed Sensor (Speed Of The Output Shaft)
The transmission output speed sensor (speed of the output shaft) is on the reverse of the transmission housing. The sensor provides signals to the transmission control module (TCM) about the vehicle speed. The output shaft speed sensor is an active sensor and is supplied with 12 V. When the pulse wheel (wheel for shift-lock) rotates, the sensor generates a pulsed current (quadratic wave) where the strength of the current depends on the position of the pulse wheel. The signals from the coil in the sensor are then effected by a magnetic resistance element, which generates a current which oscillates between 7 mA and 14 mA, and the frequency of which increase with speed. The control module calculates the transmission output speed using the signals from the sensor. The signal is compared with the signal from the transmission input speed sensor and is used to calculate the gear ratio and is also used for diagnostics.
There are diagnostics for the transmission output speed sensor.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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