P2159 Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor B Range / Performance

OBD-II Trouble Code - P2159 - Data Sheet

Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor "B" Range / Performance

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a generic transmission code, which means it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles including but not limited to Honda, Proton, Kia, Dodge, Hyundai, VW, Jeep, etc.

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

What does trouble code P2159 mean?

Typically DTC P2159 means that the vehicle speed read by Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor (VSS) "B" is outside the expected range (eg, too high or low). 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.

How VSS works

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; 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.

Typical vehicle speed sensor or VSS:

Possible symptoms

This code differs from P2158 in that it may not illuminate the malfunction indicator light (MIL). Possible symptoms are mostly the same as those of P0500 VSS code:

• loss of antilock brakes
• on the dashboard, the "anti-lock" or "brake" warning lamps may be lit.
• speedometer or odometer may not work correctly (or not work at all)
• your vehicle's rev limiter can be lowered
• automatic transmission shifting may become erratic
• Faulty tachometer
• Disabled anti-lock brakes
• ABS warning light on
• Unstable switching patterns
• Malfunction in the vehicle speed limiter

Causes of the P2159 code

The P2159 DTC can be caused by one or more of the following:

• Vehicle speed sensor (VSS) "B" does not read (does not function) properly
• Broken / worn wire to vehicle speed sensor.
• Vehicle PCM incorrectly adjusted for the actual tire size on the vehicle
• Faulty vehicle speed sensor
• Faulty ABS sensor
• Vehicle speed sensor wiring damaged, shorted or open
• Vehicle speed sensor connector damaged, corroded, or disconnected
• Bad wheel bearings
• Defective resistance ring
• Non-original tires and wheels
• Faulty PCM
• Faulty or faulty transmission (rare)

Diagnostic and repair stages

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.

Related fault codes:

• P2158: Vehicle speed sensor B
• P2160: Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor B Circuit Low
• P2161: Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor B Intermediate / Intermittent
• P2162: Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor A/B Correlation

How does a mechanic diagnose a P2159 code?

• Uses an OBD-II scanner to collect all trouble codes that have been stored by the PCM as well as freeze frame data.
• Inspects vehicle speed sensor wiring for corrosion, shorts, breaks, and chafing.
• Inspects vehicle speed sensor connectors for damaged pins, corrosion, and broken plastic.
• Repair or replace any damaged vehicle speed sensor wiring and connectors.
• Clears all DTCs and completes a test drive to see if DTC P2159 returns.
• If DTC P2159 does return, carefully remove the vehicle speed sensor and inspect it for cracks and/or metal chips (metal chips should be cleaned, however if the sensor is cracked it should be replaced)
• Clears all DTCs and completes a test drive to see if DTC P2159 returns.
• If DTC P2159 returns, check the ABS components for damage (any damaged ABS components should be repaired or replaced).
• Diagnoses any ABS DTCs stored in the PCM and performs necessary repairs.
• Clears all DTCs and completes a test drive to see if DTC P2159 returns.
• If DTC P2159 returns, check the vehicle speed sensor voltage reading (These voltage readings should meet the manufacturer's predetermined specifications; if not, the vehicle speed sensor must be replaced)
• Clears all DTCs and completes a test drive to see if DTC P2159 returns.
• If DTC P2159 returns, view vehicle speed sensor voltage waveforms (Vehicle speed sensor signal patterns must meet manufacturer's predetermined specifications; if they do not, then the reluctance ring is faulty and should be replaced)

If all other diagnostic and repair measures fail, the PCM or transmission may be faulty.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing Code P2159

• The wheel speed sensor and/or other ABS sensors are replaced by mistake if the vehicle speed sensor is causing DTC P2159.
• Other DTCs stored in PCM. Trouble codes should be diagnosed in the order they appear on the OBD-II scanner.

How serious is the P2159 code?

A DTC is usually considered serious if it causes drivability problems or performance changes. DTC P2159 is considered serious because it causes handling problems and creates an unsafe driving condition. This DTC should be diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.

What repairs can fix code P2159?

• Replacing a faulty vehicle speed sensor
• Replacement of defective ABS components
• Replacing defective wheel bearings
• Repair or replacement of damaged electrical components
• Repair or replace damaged, shorted, or exposed vehicle speed sensor wiring
• Repair or replace damaged, corroded, or disconnected vehicle speed sensor connectors.
• Replacing non-original tires and rims with original tires and rims
• PCM replacement and reprogramming
• Replace faulty or faulty gearbox (rare)

Additional comments to consider regarding code P2159

DTC P2159 is most commonly resolved by replacing the vehicle speed sensor. Be aware that ABS components, other trouble codes, and non-genuine tires may be responsible for this code being stored in the PCM. Take the time to do a thorough diagnosis before replacing the vehicle speed sensor.

What is P2159 Engine Code [Quick Guide]

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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.