OBD-II DTC P1721 – SSB Inductive Signature Malfunction
DTC P1721 meaning
DTC P1721 refers to a diagnostic trouble code indicating an issue with the SSB (Speed Sensor B) inductive signature. This code is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects a malfunction in the signal from the speed sensor, which is responsible for monitoring vehicle speed and relaying this information to various systems within the vehicle.
DTC P1721 symptoms
Common symptoms associated with DTC P1721 may include:
- Illumination of the check engine light
- Erratic or inaccurate speedometer readings
- Transmission shifting issues
- Decreased fuel efficiency
- Potential stalling or hesitation during acceleration
DTC P1721 causes
Several factors can lead to the triggering of DTC P1721, including:
- Faulty speed sensor
- Wiring issues or damaged connectors
- Corrosion in the sensor or connector terminals
- Faulty ECM or software issues
- Mechanical problems within the transmission
DTC P1721 seriousness
DTC P1721 can be considered serious as it affects the vehicle’s speed sensing capabilities, which can lead to improper transmission operation and potentially unsafe driving conditions. Ignoring this code may result in further damage to the transmission or other related components.
How to diagnose DTC P1721
To diagnose DTC P1721, follow these steps:
- Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the P1721 code.
- Inspect the speed sensor and its wiring for any visible damage or corrosion.
- Check the sensor’s electrical connections for proper fit and function.
- Test the speed sensor’s output using a multimeter to ensure it is within specifications.
- Examine the ECM for any software updates or faults.
- Perform a road test to monitor the vehicle’s performance and verify the symptoms.
How to fix DTC P1721 step-by-step instructions
To fix DTC P1721, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Start by clearing the DTC using an OBD-II scanner.
- Inspect the speed sensor and wiring for any signs of damage or wear.
- If the sensor is faulty, replace it with a new one.
- Repair or replace any damaged wiring or connectors.
- Check the ECM for any necessary software updates and apply them if needed.
- Reinstall any components removed during the inspection.
- Reconnect the battery if it was disconnected.
- Perform a road test to ensure the issue is resolved and monitor for any reoccurrence of the DTC.
How to erase DTC P1721
To erase DTC P1721, follow these steps:
- Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
- Turn on the ignition without starting the engine.
- Access the scanner’s menu and select the option to clear or erase trouble codes.
- Confirm the action and wait for the scanner to complete the process.
- Disconnect the scanner and start the vehicle to ensure the check engine light remains off.
Recommended tools for OBD-II diagnostics
Explore our expert picks: The Best OBD2 Scanners for 2025
Easy-to-use Multimeter for reliable diagnostics: AstroAI Auto-ranging Multimeter
Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This helps us keep our DTC database up to date and provide valuable content for free. We only recommend products that we have tested and believe to be the best in their class.