P0727 Engine Speed Input Circuit No Signal
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Engine Speed Input Circuit No Signal
What does that mean?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, which means that it applies to all OBD-II equipped vehicles (BMW, GMC, Chevy Duramax, Saturn, Audi, Jaguar, VW, Volvo, Kia, etc.). Although generic, the specific repair steps may vary depending on make/model.
A stored code P0727, simply means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected no input voltage signal from the engine speed sensor. The engine speed input sensor may also be called the transmission input speed sensor or the input speed sensor. A stored code P0727 may be caused by a mechanical problem or an electrical problem.
The engine speed input sensor is normally inserted through an opening in the transmission case, near the front of the input shaft and fitted with a rubber O-ring (on the sensor housing) so that it makes a seal with the transmission case. Use care when removing the sensor from the housing as hot transmission fluid may be harmful. Position a suitable container under the opening in the transmission to catch any fluid that may spill when the sensor is removed. Carefully repeat this process whenever you pan to remove any sensor from the transmission (regardless of whether you plan to test or replace it).
At the core of the typical engine input speed sensor circuit is a stationary mounted electromagnetic hall-effect sensor. It is mounted so that a toothed reluctor ring (attached to the input shaft of the transmission) passes in very close proximity to its magnetic tip. As the transmission input shaft turns, the reluctor ring spins. The raised areas of the teeth on the reluctor ring are employed to electromagnetically complete the engine speed input circuit and the recessed areas between the teeth interrupt the circuit. A waveform pattern is formed by the rapid electromagnetic completions and interruptions of the circuit. The waveform patterns represent frequency and voltage variations which the PCM recognizes as engine input speed.
A code P0727 will be stored, and a malfunction indicator lamp may be illuminated, if the PCM fails to receive engine speed input signal voltage for a set period of time and under certain circumstances. It is worth noting that the transmission control module (TCM) or PCM may enter limp-in mode when this code is stored.
Related engine speed input circuit engine codes include:
Code Severity & Symptoms
A stored code P0727 should be rectified with urgency as severe transmission damage and/or drivability issues may result.
Symptoms may include:
Causes
Possible causes for this P0727 code include:
Diagnostic and Repair Procedures
A diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source, will be required to diagnose a stored code P0727 precisely.
Prior to diagnosing an automatic transmission related code (anything in the P0700s), it is a good idea to check the condition and level of the transmission fluid.
Check the automatic transmission fluid level
Many OBD-II equipped vehicles have automatic transmission dipsticks/tubes but others do not. Your vehicle information source will guide you to the proper method for checking the transmission fluid level. Inspect the transmission housing, lines, and cooler for leaks if the fluid level is low. Repair leaks as required and refill the transmission according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Make sure that no more leaks are present. Now, focus on the odor of the transmission fluid. Suspect that the transmission has incurred catastrophic mechanical failure if the fluid smells excessively burnt, appears extremely black, or has a heavy metallic hue. With no more leaks present and the transmission full of the recommended fluid, visually inspect wiring and connectors for signs of corrosion, overheating, or other damage.
Using the Scanner
If no visibly damaged wiring or connectors are present and the transmission is filled to the recommended level with the appropriate fluid, connect the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port and retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data. I like to write this information down because it may prove helpful as my diagnosis goes forward.
If the P0727 is reset, connect the scanner to the vehicle and observe the engine speed input signal (to the PCM) using the data display screen. Carefully monitor the data display screen while test driving the vehicle. Note engine input speed and see if it varies greatly from engine RPM. If it does, suspect a defective engine input speed sensor or reluctor ring damage/wear.
Testing the Engine Speed Input Sensor
Consult your vehicle information source and follow testing recommendations (using the DVOM) to test the engine input speed sensor. Replace the engine input speed sensor if it does not fall within specs. If it is within specifications, proceed to the next step.
Testing the Engine Speed Input Sensor Circuit
Test the engine input speed sensor signal by connecting the test leads (of the DVOM) to the signal wire and the sensor ground wire at the sensor connector. Follow manufacturer’s specifications and look for glitches/spikes in sensor signal voltage. If the sensor signal seems to be in order, use the DVOM to test system circuits between the sensor connector and the PCM (see note below).
Additional diagnostic notes:
Need help?
Let us fix your problem. You are most welcome our diagnosis experts have in most cases the knowledge and skills to find the cause of the error code p0727 and to solve the problems.
Make an appointment for diagnosis
"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p0727 in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p0727 and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.
Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p0727.
