P0500 VSS Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor Malfunction

Technical Description of DTC P0500 OBD2

Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor "A" VSS Malfunction

P0500 is a generic OBD-II code indicating that a malfunction has been detected in the vehicle's speed sensor circuit. This code can be seen with P0501, P0502 and P0503.

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a generic transmission code, which means it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles including but not limited to Ford, Toyota, Dodge, BMW, Subaru, Honda, Lexus, Mazda, etc. ...

Although general, specific repair steps may differ depending on the brand / model.

What does trouble code P0500 mean?

Basically, this P0500 code means that the vehicle speed as read by the Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor (VSS) is not as expected. The VSS input is used by the vehicle's host computer called the Powertrain / Engine Control Module PCM / ECM as well as other inputs for the vehicle's systems to function properly.

Typically, the VSS is an electromagnetic sensor that uses a rotating reaction ring to close the input circuit in the PCM. The VSS is installed in the transmission housing in such a position that the reactor ring can pass by it; in the immediate vicinity. The reactor ring is attached to the transmission output shaft so that it rotates with it. When the ring of the reactor passes by the VSS solenoid tip, the notches and grooves serve to quickly close and interrupt the circuit. These circuit manipulations are recognized by the PCM as the transmission output speed or vehicle speed.

Related Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor Fault Codes:

• P0501 Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor "A" Range / Performance
• P0502 Low input signal of the vehicle speed sensor "A"
• P0503 Vehicle speed sensor "A" unstable / unstable / high

Typical vehicle speed sensor or VSS:

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0500 trouble code may include:

• loss of antilock brakes
• on the dashboard, the "anti-lock" or "brake" warning lamps may be lit.
• the speedometer or odometer may not work correctly (or at all)
• your vehicle's rev limiter can be lowered
• automatic transmission shifting may become erratic
• other symptoms may also be present
• Make sure the engine light is on
• The transmission may not shift properly as the ECU uses the vehicle's speed to determine when to shift.
• The vehicle's ABS and traction control systems may fail.

Causes of the P0500 code

The P0500 code may mean that one or more of the following events have occurred:

• Vehicle speed sensor (VSS) does not read (does not work) properly
• Broken / worn wire to vehicle speed sensor.
• Vehicle PCM incorrectly adjusted for the actual tire size on the vehicle
• Damaged vehicle speed sensor gear
• Poor electrical connection

Possible solutions

A good first step to take as a vehicle owner or home handyman is to look up Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) for your specific make/model/engine/year of vehicle. If a known TSB exists (as is the case with some Toyota vehicles), following the instructions in the bulletin can save you time and money in diagnosing and fixing the problem.

Then visually inspect all wiring and connectors leading to the speed sensor. Look carefully for scuffs, exposed wires, broken wires, melted or other damaged areas. Repair if necessary. The location of the sensor depends on your vehicle. The sensor could be on the rear axle, transmission, or possibly the wheel hub (brake) assembly.

If everything is OK with the wiring and connectors, then check the voltage at the speed sensor. Again, the exact procedure will depend on your make and model of vehicle.

If ok, replace the sensor.

HOW DOES A MECHANIC DIAGNOSTIC CODE P0500?

• Trained technicians connect a scanner to the vehicle to check for codes and record any codes found along with freeze frame data.
• All codes will be cleared to start with a new look for the car. A road test will then be carried out to confirm the problem.
• The technician will then visually inspect the speed sensor and all associated connections for obvious damage or wear.
• The scan tool will then be used to check for the presence of a vehicle speed sensor (VSS) signal while driving.
• Finally, the voltage will be checked with a multimeter on the vehicle speed sensor.

COMMON ERRORS WHEN DIAGNOSING CODE P0500

If the diagnosis fails, the vehicle's speedometer can be replaced as only the vehicle speed sensor is not working. Proper diagnostics checks all components step by step to avoid unnecessary repairs.

HOW SERIOUS CODE P0500 IS?

The P0500 does not impede the movement of the vehicle, but it can switch abruptly, causing some discomfort while driving. If the speedometer does not work, obey the speed limits until the vehicle is repaired. If the ABS and Traction Control System (TCS) are not working, be especially careful while driving, especially in inclement weather.

WHAT REPAIRS CAN FIX CODE P0500?

• Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor Transmission Replacement
• Repair or replace wiring harness
• Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor Replacement
• Fixed bad electrical connection

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS TO BE AWARE OF CODE P0500

Depending on the year of manufacture and the type of vehicle driving, the location of the vehicle speed sensor can vary significantly. On front-wheel drive vehicles, the speed sensor is often located on the front wheel hub. On rear wheel drive vehicles, the speed sensor can be found on the transmission output shaft or inside the rear differential. Most modern cars may have a speed sensor located on each wheel.

The ECU uses information from the vehicle's speed sensor to display the correct speed on the speedometer. In addition, this information is used to tell the transmission when to change gears and to control other safety features such as anti-lock brakes and traction control.

P0500 Fixed WITHOUT CHANGING Vehicle Speed Sensor

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NOTE. This information is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as a repair recommendation and we are not responsible for any action you take on any vehicle. All information on this site is protected by copyright.