Speed. Since the invention of the car, we’ve wanted to go faster. Knowing how fast our vehicle is traveling is an essential part of driving, not only for safety but also for the efficient operation of critical systems like the ABS.

Your vehicle speed sensor is the key here. It’s the component that measures vehicle speed by measuring how fast your drivetrain is traveling. This info is then fed to the ABS and ECU. When it fails, the engine computer compares the engine rpm and speed sensor readings and logs the P0500 check engine light code. In this article, we will explain in-depth everything you need to know about the P0500 trouble code. This includes causes, symptoms, and diagnostic techniques. So, let’s get into it!

What Is the P0500 Code, and What Does It Mean? 

The P0500 code stands for “Vehicle speed sensor malfunction.” Depending on your vehicle, you could also see something along the lines of “Vehicle Speed Sensor “A” Range/Performance.” It means that the sensor reading does not match the engine rpm when the ECU compares the two. There are also four speed sensors on each wheel hub that work together with the main sensor and engine computer for your ABS.

Where Is Speed Sensor A Located?

Speed sensor “A” refers to the primary sensor on the wheel axle, the one we are looking at for the P0500 code. Although some vehicles (specifically ones that use AWD systems) use a different configuration, this sensor will most likely be near the transmission.

It’s worth noting that some vehicles rely on ABS wheel speed sensors to work, in which case they are acting as the vehicle speed sensor. 

What Causes the P0500 Code?

Knowing the general causes of the P0500 code is the first step to diagnosing the root cause of the problem. Not only will this speed up the process, but it will also help you avoid spending money on unnecessary parts. Here are the most common causes of the P0500 code:

• Failed speed sensor
• Wiring harness
• Tire size change

Failed Speed Sensor

The primary component of measuring speed is the vehicle speed sensor. Although failure is uncommon, corrosion or excessive heat can cause it to malfunction. Contamination is also another issue. Old transmission fluid can collect on the sensor and gather debris and that can cause the P0500 code.

Wiring Harness

Wiring harness failure is a common cause of many trouble codes because the nature of wires makes them susceptible to becoming brittle with age. Fraying or damage to the harness connector will cause the P0500 code.

Tire Size Change

Every car out there is built for very specific tire size. Sticking to that tire size, or close to it, is essential because the diameter of the wheel affects your transmission, power steering, and more. Manufacturers calibrate the VSS according to this and when you change sizes, it needs to be re-calibrated. If this is not done, the engine speed and the sensor reading will not match causing the P0500 code.

What Causes a Vehicle Speed Sensor to Fail?

The construction of a speed sensor leaves it vulnerable to heat and contamination. Electrical damage can also cause the sensor to fail if there is a current overload in the system. Generally speaking, vehicle speed sensors aren’t prone to failing, but they aren’t able to take a whole lot of abuse should other nearby systems experience issues. 

What Are the Common Symptoms of P0500 Fault Code?

You will find that the symptoms of this problem clearly present themselves. This makes this trouble code straightforward to diagnose. Some of the common symptoms are:

• Incorrect speedometer reading
• Flickering ABS light
• Erratic ABS and traction control behavior
• Automatic transmission issues

Incorrect Speedometer Reading

The fact your speed sensor is responsible for sending speed data to the ECU means that if the data is incorrect, you will have an incorrect speed reading. Although this can be an issue with the instrument cluster, one of the more common causes is the speed sensor.

Of course, excessive speed on the speedometer when the vehicle is moving slowly is abnormal. It is more likely that the dial will fluctuate heavily but any abnormal behavior points to the speed sensor failing.

Flickering ABS Light

The ABS uses its own speed sensors and controller to detect when the wheel traction is lost. However, because it compares this reading to the main sensor reading, it can cause issues if they don’t match. The ABS light flickering on and off could mean that you have the P0500 code.

Erratic ABS and Traction Control Behavior

Faulty speed sensor readings can cause the ABS and traction control to engage incorrectly. Although this doesn’t pose a safety hazard, it can cause premature tire wear or performance loss, neither of which you want. Both of these can be a sign of the P0500 code.

Automatic Transmission Issues

An automatic transmission uses speed sensor data to shift gears and match clutch and engine speed. If the reading is incorrect, it may mean that the transmission will be unable to shift or shift to the wrong gear. The VSS is one of the more common causes of automatic transmission issues. If there is no transmission fluid in the system, it can also cause this trouble code among others.

How to Diagnose and Fix the Cause of P0500 Code 

Diagnosing the P0500 code is a fairly straightforward process. We are specifically looking at the VSS and related components. Here you will find all you need to know about the process and potential fixes that might solve the trouble code.

OBD-II Reader

Your OBD-II scan tool will allow you to identify the P0500 code and any other trouble codes that might be related to the cause of the problem. Connect your scan tool to the connection port and run a full scan of the vehicle. This is the only way to tell what codes are logged and whether you’re dealing with a standalone code or a series of codes. 

Visual Inspection

Your first instinct after identifying the trouble codes should be to inspect your vehicle for damage. Look for any damage to the sensor itself. Any signs of metal dust near the sensor gear could also be a sign of damage.

The wiring harness is another common failure point. Look for fraying, exposed wiring, or damage to the harness connector. Remember to not rule out wiring harness damage at this point, as internal damage can still occur without external signs.

With a vehicle speed sensor, it is vital to check your technical service bulletin for part recalls. Many vehicle manufacturers post-2010 recalled speed sensors for issues that they had.

Another quick check that you should run through is whether you are using the recommended tire size. You may need to recalibrate your speedometer if you have purchased a used vehicle or have changed your tire size. On some cars, you can do this in the menus, but if you have a mechanical one, it may be more complicated.

Wiring Harness

To test whether the wires of your wiring harness are carrying voltage correctly, you need to use a multimeter. First, you need to test whether the power wire is carrying voltage to the sensor. Contact your red multimeter probe to the back of the connector where it meets the sensor. Your black probe needs to contact the ground, which in this case, we will use the vehicle chassis for.

Your vehicle needs to be in the “key on engine off” state. The screen on your multimeter should read around 12V for this wire. When testing the signal wire, you should get around 0.1V to 1V.

Vehicle Speed Sensor

If there is no external damage to the sensor, you will need to remove it to test whether it is outputting the correct voltage. Once you’ve completed this, you need to attach your multimeter to the sensor. The black (negative) and red (positive) multimeter probes need to contact their respective sensor connector terminals.

Once they are connected, you need to move the sensor gear to simulate vehicle motion. As you’re moving the gear, the voltage should move from 0V to around 0.5V and return to 0V once it stops moving. If it doesn’t produce any voltage or produces very little, it’s likely that the sensor has failed and needs to be replaced.

How to Fix the Cause of the P0500 Code 

In most cases, fixing the P0500 code comes down to replacing the vehicle speed sensor. Fortunately, these sensors are rather easy to replace as they are mounted on the outside of the transmission and are usually held in place by one or two bolts. Check your car’s service manual to find out exactly where your VSS is located. 

A quick change in the transmission fluid can also help clear up a P0500 code. You can attempt to clean the sensor if it is excessively contaminated.

Does P0500 Clear Itself?

The P0500 code will clear itself within a drive cycle. It is always better to clear it using an OBD-II reader, but if you are certain that the root cause of the problem has been fixed, you should be able to drive your vehicle.

Some vehicles require you to clear the code with a scan tool and will not disengage limp mode unless this is done. Always check your owner’s manual post-repairs.

Is It OK to Drive with P0500?

A faulty VSS can mean incorrect speedometer readings and erratic shifting behavior. With that in mind, you should not drive with the P0500 code active as it is not only a safety hazard but can further damage more expensive components.

Fix your Vehicle Speed Sensor Using Quality Parts!

Now that you’ve diagnosed the P0500 code, it’s time to repair and replace components. The repair portion of the job can be a hassle, but we make it easier by providing you with top-quality parts for the job!

Here at eEuroparts.com, you will find all the parts that you need to fix the P0500 code, and more! Pick your vehicle from the dropdown menu and a comprehensive list of components that are tailored for you.