2021 HONDA CIVIC

1.5L I4 TurboFWDCVTgasturbo
3 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
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transmission

Transmission Speed Sensor - Output

for 2021 Honda Civic 1.5L I4 Turbo · FWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
1.0 h
Tools
6
Steps
10

Replace the output speed sensor on the CVT transmission to restore proper speedometer operation and transmission shift control.

Warnings

Allow transmission to cool completely before beginning work to avoid burns from hot ATF
ℹ️The output speed sensor is located on the transmission case near the right axle shaft area
Some ATF will drain when the sensor is removed; have a drain pan ready

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Torque wrenchEssential
Flathead screwdriver or trim tool
Clean shop towelsEssential
Drain pan (small)Essential
Safety glassesEssential

Parts

  • Output speed sensor × 1 — 28820-5CK-013 or equivalent OEM
  • O-ring for speed sensor × 1 — Usually included with sensor

Fluids

  • Honda DW-1 ATF — 0.5 qt

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
  2. Allow transmission to cool for at least 30 minutes if recently driven
  3. Raise and support front of vehicle on jack stands if needed for access (some technicians can reach from wheel well)
  4. Remove right front wheel for better access to transmission sensor location
  5. Remove right front inner fender liner clips and peel back liner to expose transmission case

Procedure

  1. 1
    Locate the output speed sensor
    The output speed sensor is mounted on the transmission case below and forward of the right axle shaft. It has a single electrical connector and is held by one 10mm bolt. Clean the area around the sensor with a shop towel to prevent dirt from entering the transmission.
  2. 2
    Disconnect the electrical connector
    Press the tab on the electrical connector and pull it straight off the output speed sensor. If the connector is difficult to remove, gently pry the locking tab with a small flathead screwdriver while pulling the connector.
  3. 3
    Position drain pan
    Place a small drain pan directly beneath the output speed sensor. Approximately 2-4 ounces of ATF will drain when the sensor is removed.
  4. 4
    Remove sensor mounting bolt
    Using a 10mm socket, remove the single bolt securing the output speed sensor to the transmission case. Keep the bolt clean for reinstallation.
  5. 5
    Extract the old sensor
    Carefully pull the output speed sensor straight out of the transmission case. ATF will drain from the sensor bore. Allow fluid to drain completely into the pan. Remove and discard the old O-ring from the sensor or from the transmission case bore.
  6. 6
    Prepare new sensor
    Install the new O-ring onto the new output speed sensor. Lightly lubricate the O-ring with clean Honda DW-1 ATF to ease installation and prevent damage to the seal.
  7. 7
    Install new sensor
    Carefully insert the new output speed sensor into the transmission case bore, ensuring the O-ring does not roll or pinch. Push the sensor fully into position until it seats against the transmission case.
  8. 8
    Secure sensor with mounting bolt
    Install the 10mm mounting bolt and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure the sensor is fully seated before tightening.
    Torque spec
    Sensor Bolts10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
  9. 9
    Reconnect electrical connector
    Push the electrical connector onto the output speed sensor until it clicks into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked.
  10. 10
    Check and top off transmission fluid
    Check the transmission fluid level through the dipstick (if equipped) or fill plug. Add Honda DW-1 ATF as needed to replace fluid lost during sensor removal. Typical loss is 0.25-0.5 quarts. On CVT models without dipstick, fluid level must be checked with engine running at operating temperature.

Reassembly

  1. Reinstall right front inner fender liner and secure all clips
  2. Reinstall right front wheel and torque lug nuts to specification (80 lb-ft)
  3. Lower vehicle to ground

Verification

  • Start engine and verify no transmission fluid leaks around the output speed sensor
  • Test drive vehicle and confirm speedometer operates correctly
  • Verify no transmission-related warning lights or codes appear on instrument cluster
  • Recheck transmission fluid level after test drive and top off if necessary
  • Use a scan tool to verify the output speed sensor is providing signal to the ECM/PCM

More procedures for this vehicle

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