transmission
Transmission Speed Sensor - Output
for 2002 Dodge Viper 8.0L V10 · RWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
54 min
Tools
11
Steps
10
✓Fact-checked. Built from OLP's spec database, then independently fact-checked line by line with every correction applied. Master-tech sign-off by Chris Hackleman is queued. Cross-check torque values against the factory manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. How our data is made.
Replace the output speed sensor on the Borg-Warner T56 6-speed manual transmission by accessing it from underneath the vehicle, disconnecting the electrical connector, and removing the sensor from the transmission housing.
Warnings
⚠️Always use jack stands rated for the vehicle weight. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a floor jack.
⚠Allow exhaust components to cool completely before working underneath the vehicle. The side-exit exhaust system runs along the driver side near the transmission tunnel.
ℹ️The output speed sensor is located on the passenger side of the transmission tailhousing. No fluid drain is required for this procedure.
Tools required
Floor jackEssential
Jack stands (2)Essential
Wheel chocksEssential
10mm socketEssential
RatchetEssential
Torque wrenchEssential
Safety glassesEssential
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Parts
- Transmission output speed sensor × 1 — Mopar 4800879 or equivalent
- O-ring seal for speed sensor × 1 — Usually included with sensor
As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake firmly
- Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
- Allow exhaust system to cool if vehicle was recently driven (minimum 30 minutes)
- Gather all tools and new parts before beginning work
Procedure
- 1Raise and support vehicleUsing a floor jack at the front crossmember, raise the front of the vehicle to a comfortable working height. Immediately place jack stands under the factory jacking points behind each front wheel. Lower the vehicle onto the jack stands and verify stability before proceeding. The rear can remain on the ground for this procedure.
- 2Locate output speed sensorPosition yourself under the passenger side of the vehicle near the transmission tunnel. The output speed sensor is mounted on the right (passenger) side of the T56 transmission tailhousing, approximately 12-14 inches forward of the driveshaft yoke. It will have a single electrical connector with a locking tab.
- 3Disconnect electrical connectorLocate the gray electrical connector on the output speed sensor. Press the locking tab on the connector body while pulling the connector straight away from the sensor. If the connector is difficult to remove, use a flathead screwdriver or pick tool to carefully release the locking tab. Wipe away any accumulated dirt or debris from around the sensor body.
- 4Remove sensor mounting boltUsing a 10mm socket and ratchet, remove the single bolt securing the output speed sensor to the transmission housing. Place the bolt in a parts tray to prevent loss. Place the bolt in a parts tray to prevent loss.Torque specSensor Bolts11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
- 5Extract sensor from housingGrasp the sensor body firmly and pull it straight out of the transmission housing bore. A slight twisting motion while pulling may help break the O-ring seal. Expect minimal transmission fluid seepage (typically just residual fluid on the sensor). Have a shop towel ready to catch any drips. Inspect the sensor tip for metal debris or damage.
- 6Prepare sensor boreWipe the transmission housing bore clean with a shop towel. Inspect the bore for any debris, metal shavings, or damage to the sealing surface. Remove the old O-ring from the sensor bore if it remained in the transmission rather than coming out with the sensor.
- 7Install new sensorVerify the new O-ring is properly seated in the groove on the new sensor body. Lubricate the O-ring lightly with clean transmission fluid. Align the sensor with the transmission housing bore and push it in firmly by hand until it seats flush against the mounting surface. The sensor should insert smoothly without binding.
- 8Install and torque mounting boltThread the 10mm mounting bolt by hand to ensure proper thread engagement. Using a torque wrench, tighten the bolt to specification per the torque spec list.Torque specSensor Bolts11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
- 9Reconnect electrical connectorPush the electrical connector onto the new sensor until you hear and feel the locking tab click into place. Tug gently on the connector to verify it is fully locked. Route the wiring harness away from any sharp edges or heat sources.
- 10Lower vehicleRaise the vehicle slightly with the floor jack to unload the jack stands. Remove both jack stands and carefully lower the vehicle to the ground. Remove wheel chocks.
Reassembly
- No disassembly of other components was required for this procedure
Verification
- Start the engine and verify no check engine light illuminates
- With the vehicle in neutral and clutch engaged, verify the speedometer reads zero
- Test drive the vehicle and confirm speedometer operation is normal
- Check underneath the vehicle for any transmission fluid leaks around the sensor
- If available, use a scan tool to verify the PCM is receiving output speed sensor signal (should read approximately 0 MPH at idle in neutral, and match vehicle speed when driving)
Related trouble codes on this vehicle
Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.
P0218Transmission Over Temperature ConditionP0320Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input CircuitP0321Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit Range/PerformanceP0493Cooling Fan SpeedP0494Cooling Fan Speed LowP0500Vehicle Speed Sensor AP0501Vehicle Speed Sensor A Range/PerformanceP0526Cooling Fan Speed Sensor CircuitP0527Fan Speed Sensor Circuit Range/PerformanceP0574Cruise Control System - Vehicle Speed Too HighP0608Control Module VSS Output "A" MalfunctionP0609Control Module VSS Output "B" Malfunction
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