Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction

Severity

Medium

Can I keep driving?

Usually drivable, but get it diagnosed without delay.

First step

A typical diagnostic sequence used by mechanics, provided here for educational reference only. Diagnostic work should be performed by a qualified mechanic with the appropriate tools and training. 1. Check the speedometer first, does it work at all? An intermittent or zero reading helps narrow the fault 2. Inspect the VSS and connector, the sensor is usually on the gearbox output or differential 3. On cars with ABS-derived speed signals: scan all four ABS wheel speed sensors and look for the one that's offline 4. Test the sensor electrically against spec, sensors typically read 200-2,000 ohms depending on type 5. Check wiring continuity from sensor to ECU using a multimeter on continuity setting 6. If the sensor and wiring are healthy, the ECU input may be at fault

PPowertrain
0Generic code
5Speed / Idle
00Sequence number

What does it mean?

As you can probably guess, the vehicle speed sensor (VSS) is used to determine vehicle speed. This information is used by various ECUs throughout the vehicle, including the PCM and TCM. The PCM uses the VSS signal to determine the control of outputs such as EGR function and speedometer operation. The TCM uses the VSS signal to control outputs such as upshifts, downshifts and torque convert clutch engagement.

There are three types of vehicle speed sensors: magnetic pickup, Hall Effect and reed switch: Reed design: opens and closes a circuit as it’s rotated to produce a digital signal. A typical reed sensor Permanent magnetic: creates an AC voltage signal that is proportional to vehicle speed. A typical permanent magnet sensor Hall Effect: uses a reference voltage from the PCM to produce a DC voltage signal.

A typical Hall Effect sensor Most sensors today are of the permanent magnet design or Hall Effect design. They are typically mounted in the transmission or differential assembly. If the PCM detects a problem with the VSS or its circuit, it sets a code and illuminates the check engine light. One such code is P0500, which stands for vehicle speed sensor malfunction.

Symptoms

Likely causes

How to fix it

Codes From the Same System

All Fault Codes

Related Similar Codes

This information follows the generic OBD-II definition and does not replace a vehicle-specific diagnosis. The severity rating is rule-based; an authorised diagnostic reading is required for a definitive answer.