C0720: Electric Power Steering Torque Sensor Circuit
The torque sensor in the EPS column or rack reports an electrical fault. Power assist is reduced or disabled.
What C0720 means
C0720 is a generic OBD-II chassis code in the steering group. In plain English: the computer found an electrical fault in that circuit: an open, short or bad connection, or a failed component.
- Check engine light
- Usually off
- Emissions-related
- No
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
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Symptoms
- ABS warning light on
- ESC/stability control deactivated
- Possible reduced brake assist
- Speedometer may behave erratically
Common causes
- 01Torque sensor failedMost likely
- 02Wiring shortedPossible
Can I drive with C0720?
Drive carefully and get it checked soon.
Steering assist may drop out, making the wheel heavy at low speed. Avoid driving if steering becomes very heavy or erratic.
Why we rate it urgent
- Steering assist may be reduced or lost
- Usually lights the ABS, traction or stability warning instead of the check engine light
Severity is our rule-based rating from the code’s flags in OBDex and the system it affects, not an inspection of your car. If the check engine light is flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, stop driving and get help.
How to diagnose C0720
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just C0720. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Fix other faults first
If other codes are stored, start with power-supply, sensor-circuit and communication codes. They can cause this code as a side effect.
- 3
Test the circuit
Inspect the wiring and connector at the eps torque sensor and eps control module for damage, corrosion or chafing. With a multimeter, check supply voltage, ground and signal against the specifications in the service manual for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: Torque sensor failed; wiring shorted. Test before replacing parts.
- 5
Check for recalls and service bulletins
Look up recalls for your exact vehicle with its VIN, and ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs). Manufacturers sometimes issue software updates or extended warranties for known faults.
- 6
Clear the code and verify the repair
After the repair, clear the code and drive the car under the conditions in the freeze-frame data to confirm it does not return.
C0720 repair cost estimate
Estimate, not a quote. Labor times are typical ranges for this code from OBDex, and $125/hr is an assumed rate. Shop rates and labor times vary by vehicle and region. Diagnosis time may be billed separately.
- DIY difficulty
- Hard
- Good DIY job?
- Usually a shop job
Involved testing or major parts. Most owners use a shop.
Parts and systems involved
- EPS torque sensor
- EPS control module
C0720 FAQ
What does C0720 mean?
C0720 means “Electric Power Steering Torque Sensor Circuit”. The torque sensor in the EPS column or rack reports an electrical fault. Power assist is reduced or disabled.
Is C0720 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate C0720 as urgent severity. Drive carefully and get it checked soon. Steering assist may drop out, making the wheel heavy at low speed. Avoid driving if steering becomes very heavy or erratic.
What causes C0720?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Torque sensor failed; Wiring shorted. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix C0720?
Typical labor is about $190–$625 at an assumed $125/hour shop rate, plus parts. That is an estimate, not a quote: labor times and rates vary by vehicle and region, and diagnosis may be billed separately.
Can I fix C0720 myself?
DIY difficulty is hard. Most owners leave this to a shop because it needs involved testing or specialist tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will C0720 clear itself?
If the fault was intermittent, the warning may go off once the computer stops seeing it, but the code stays in memory. Fix the cause; clearing the code alone doesn’t repair anything.