Output Speed Sensor (A/T)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Dodge SX and 2003 Dodge Neon. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The output speed sensor is a two-wire magnetic pickup device that generates an AC voltage signal as rotation occurs. See Fig 1. It is threaded into the transaxle case and sealed with an "O" ring. See Fig 2. The sensor is considered a primary input to the Transmission Control Module (TCM). The output speed sensor provides information on how fast the output shaft is rotating. As the rear planetary carrier park pawl lugs past the sensor coil, an AC voltage is generated and sent to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM)/TCM. See Fig 3.

The PCM/TCM interprets this information as output shaft RPM. The PCM/TCM compares the input speed signal with the output speed signal to determine transmission gear ratio, speed ratio error detection and clutch volume index.

Fig 1: Locating Output Speed Sensor

Courtesy of CHRYSLER CORP.

Fig 2: Identifying Output Speed Sensor

Courtesy of CHRYSLER CORP.

Fig 3: Identifying Sensor Relation-To-Planet Carrier Park Pawl

Courtesy of CHRYSLER CORP.