P0500 - VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR “A” MALFUNCTION

Basically, the DTC code P0500 OBDII indicates that the vehicle speed read by the VSS sensor (Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor) is not as expected.

The Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor (VSS) is responsible for informing the ECM (Engine Control Module) of the speed of the vehicle, in order to control the speedometer and the odometer. For this, it emits a signal of 4 pulses for each revolution of the rotor axis, which rotates the output shaft of the transmission through the driven gear.

The VSS (Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor) sensor is located in the transmission housing, so that the sensor’s reluctor ring passes through it, in close proximity. When the reluctor ring passes through the electromagnetic tip of the VSS (Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor), its slots serve to complete and interrupt the circuit immediately. These circuit manipulations are recognized by the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) as the output speed of the transmission or vehicle speed.

• ABS brakes can be lost.
• The brake or anti-lock warning lamps on the dash may be lit.
• The speedometer may not work correctly.
• The RPM limiter (revolutions per minute) may decrease.
• The transmission can present problems when changing.

A P0500 OBD2 fault code can be caused by one or more of the following problems:

• There may be a cable leading to the Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor (VSS) that has a defect.
• There is a bad connection in the VSS sensor circuit (Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor).
• The Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor (VSS) is not working correctly and therefore its readings are not adequate.
• The Engine Control Module (ECM) may be defective.

To solve the P0500 OBDII diagnostic code you can review the following components:

• Visually the entire cable system and the connectors that lead to the Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor (VSS), verify that there is no wear or friction. Repair or change as necessary.
• Depending on the location of the VSS sensor (Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor), since some are on the shaft or on the transmission, check the voltage on the Vehicle Speed ​​Sensor (VSS), change if necessary.