transmission
Transmission Speed Sensor - Output
for 2012 Ford F-150 3.5L V6 EcoBoost · 4WD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
1.2 h
Tools
9
Steps
10
This procedure covers the replacement of the output speed sensor on the 6R80 automatic transmission in a 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine.
Warnings
⚠The transmission must be cool before starting work to prevent burns from hot fluid
⚠Expect approximately 0.5-1.0 quarts of transmission fluid to drain when removing the sensor
ℹ️The output speed sensor is located on the rear driver's side of the transmission case
Tools required
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Extension setEssential
Torque wrench (10-50 Nm range)Essential
Vehicle lift or jack standsEssential
Drain panEssential
Wheel chocksEssential
Electrical connector pick tool
Shop towelsEssential
Fluid transfer pump
Parts
- Output shaft speed sensor (OSS) × 1 — Motorcraft DY-1216 or equivalent
- Transmission fluid (for topping off) × 1 — Motorcraft MERCON LV
Fluids
- Motorcraft MERCON LV ATF — 1 qt
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
- Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
- Allow transmission to cool completely if vehicle was recently driven
- Raise vehicle safely on lift or jack stands to working height
- Position drain pan under rear of transmission near driver's side
Procedure
- 1Locate the output speed sensorFrom underneath the vehicle, locate the output speed sensor on the driver's side rear of the transmission case, just forward of the driveshaft. The sensor has a single electrical connector and is secured by a single bolt.
- 2Disconnect the electrical connectorPress the tab on the electrical connector and carefully pull it away from the output speed sensor. Use a pick tool if needed to release the locking tab. Inspect the connector for corrosion or damage.
- 3Position drain panPosition the drain pan directly under the sensor location. Transmission fluid will drain when the sensor is removed, typically 0.5-1.0 quarts depending on fluid level.
- 4Remove sensor retaining boltUsing a 10mm socket with extension, remove the single bolt securing the output speed sensor to the transmission case. Keep the bolt as it will be reused.Torque specSensor Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
- 5Extract the sensorCarefully pull the output speed sensor straight out of the transmission case. Expect fluid to begin draining immediately. Allow fluid to drain into the pan for 1-2 minutes until flow stops.
- 6Inspect and clean the sensor boreInspect the sensor bore in the transmission case for debris or metal shavings. Clean the mounting surface with a shop towel. Examine the old sensor for damage to the reluctor wheel pickup area.
- 7Install new output speed sensorLubricate the new sensor O-ring with clean MERCON LV transmission fluid. Insert the sensor straight into the bore, ensuring proper alignment. Push firmly until the sensor is fully seated against the case.
- 8Install and torque retaining boltInstall the retaining bolt and tighten by hand until snug. Using a torque wrench, tighten the bolt to specification in a single pass.Torque specSensor Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
- 9Reconnect electrical connectorPush the electrical connector onto the sensor until you hear and feel a positive click. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is locked in place.
- 10Refill transmission fluidUsing the transmission dipstick tube or fill plug, add MERCON LV fluid to replace what was lost during sensor removal. Start with approximately 1 quart and check level according to normal procedure. Fluid must be checked with engine running at operating temperature in Park.
Reassembly
- Ensure sensor bolt is torqued to specification and electrical connector is fully locked
- Verify no active fluid leaks from sensor mounting area before lowering vehicle
- Clean up any spilled transmission fluid from undercarriage components
Verification
- Start engine and verify no transmission fluid leaks around the sensor
- Using a scan tool, confirm the output speed sensor is providing a valid signal with no DTCs present
- Test drive the vehicle and verify normal transmission operation through all gears
- Recheck transmission fluid level after test drive with engine at operating temperature
- Clear any stored diagnostic trouble codes and verify no new codes set after test drive