← Back to list

1997 Honda Accord 4-Cylinder Check Engine Light & OBD II Code P0720: Transmission Sensor Issue and Repair Cost Guide (California Bay Area)

Model: 1997 HONDA ACCORD Fault Code: P0720 Posted: 2014-01-03 19:51

1997 Honda Accord Special Edition (4-cylinder) - While driving on the freeway, the "Check Engine" light activated. A diagnostic at a quality tune-up revealed OBD II Code P0720. The technician identified an issue with the Countershaft Speed Sensor located inside the transmission. They recommended taking the vehicle to a specialized transmission shop for repair. I'm concerned whether the repair cost exceeds the car's current value. What would be considered a reasonable expense to keep driving safely for approximately 24 months? Are there any reliable transmission repair shops in the California Bay Area? Can you explain what OBD II Code P0720 indicates and provide an estimate of typical repair costs? I'm looking for accurate, factual information based on common automotive diagnostics for this model year and region.

Related fault codes

P0720

Comments (3)

Anonymous 2014-01-04 12:49

The issue is related to the "Countershaft Speed Sensor" circuit. This sensor is actually external to the transmission. The technician should first inspect the wiring connections, perform an ohm test on the sensor, and then either repair damaged wiring or replace the sensor if necessary. Search online for current sensor prices — expect a labor rate of about $100 per hour in California, with potential total time ranging from 2 to 3 hours. A rough estimate: labor at $100/hour plus sensor cost (if needed). The math is up to you to calculate.

Anonymous 2014-01-06 19:01

Thanks, Kev2 — your explanation was very clear and helpful! I really appreciate the practical insight (though I’d love a recommendation for a trusted shop in the Bay Area). Meanwhile, here’s an estimate from a Bay Area mechanic: "Labor rate is $135 per hour. The job will take 2 to 3 hours. A full vehicle diagnostic is required before any repair work begins. Diagnostic fees are separate and do not count toward repair costs. Parts are available through the dealer — if it's the external sensor, they can and will perform a repair. However, if the problem turns out to be internal transmission failure, their shop does not offer such repairs, and you’ll need to take the vehicle elsewhere for that service." {Song: "Ring-around-the-Rosie, Pocket full of Posey, Ashes, Ashes, All Fall Down!"}

Anonymous 2014-01-07 08:49

Incorrect assumption — a good analogy is this: you visit your general practitioner (GP) for symptoms and are referred to a specialist. The steps I outlined — checking wiring, testing the sensor, and assessing the circuit — should either diagnose or resolve the issue. I recommend getting a second opinion before proceeding. If you decide to replace or repair the sensor, calculate the total cost: sensor price plus labor time (2–3 hours). If the problem persists after this step, then roughly half of the troubleshooting effort has already been invested — it becomes essentially a 50/50 gamble.