P0500 OBD-II Trouble Code

Technical Description

Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction

What does that mean?

Basically this means that the vehicle's speed as read by the Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) is not working properly.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

• loss of anti-lock brakes
• the "anti-lock" or "brake" warning lamps on the dash may be lit
• the speedometer or odometer may not work properly (or at all)
• your vehicle's RPM limiter may be decreased
• the shifting of an automatic transmission may become erratic
• other symptoms may also be present

Causes

A code P0500 may mean that one or more of the following has happened:

• The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) is not reading (functioning) properly
• There is a broken/frayed wire leading to the vehicle speed sensor

Possible Solutions

The simplest thing to do is to reset the code and see if it comes back.

Next, check all wiring and connectors that lead to the speed sensor. The location of the sensor depends on your vehicle. The sensor could be on the rear axle, transmission, or perhaps the wheel hub (brake) assembly.

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

If everything looks OK, replace the sensor.

Need more help?

If you still need help regarding this trouble code, please post your concern in the forums.

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