Typically, two sensors communicate the transmission data to the vehicle's powertrain control module. The first sensor, referred to as the input sensor, monitors the speed of the transmission's input shaft. The second sensor is the output sensor, which monitors the output shaft speed.
How many transmission speed sensors are there?
Your car's transmission speed sensors are vital to its powertrain operation. Most modern cars have two transmission speed sensors , one at the input shaft and another at the output shaft.
What happens when a transmission speed sensor goes bad?
Therefore, a failing speed sensor will have a direct impact on automatic transmission operation. One of the most common signs of a bad speed sensor is abnormal automatic transmission operation. If the VSS is faulty, the transmission may exhibit symptoms such as delayed shifts, hard shifts, and limited gear operation .
Where is the speed sensor located on the transmission?
Locate the transmission speed sensors, they'll be near the front and rear of the transmission housing . Consult the repair manual for your car. Place bucket or oil drain pan underneath the sensor, there will be some oil that drains out.
Is there a speed sensor on the transmission?
The vehicle speed sensor (VSS) is also commonly referred to as a transmission speed sensor or output shaft speed sensor. It is a small device—typically mounted somewhere on the transmission —that determines how fast your vehicle is going by measuring the rotation of a toothed wheel on a shaft inside the transmission.
How can you tell if a transmission speed sensor is bad?
- Cruise Control Fails. The main function of the speed sensors is to monitor the output and input shaft speed. ...
- Improper Or Harsh Shifting. ...
- The Check Engine Light Indicates.
How much does it cost to replace a transmission speed sensor?
To replace the speed sensor, you are going to pay, on average, between $330 and $380 . The labor should only cost you between $80 and $100, while parts will run you about $265.
How long does it take to replace a transmission speed sensor?
Most experienced technicians can replace the transmission speed sensor within 2-3 hours . Depending on the severity of the damage it can take a bit longer.
What does a transmission speed sensor control?
A transmission speed sensor calculates the transmission gear ratio when in use . A car has two speed sensors: the ISS and the OSS, working together to show the transmission data to the car's powertrain module. The ISS sensor monitors the input shaft's speed.
Is it hard to replace a speed sensor?
The vehicle speed sensor is one of the easiest parts on your car to change yourself. ... If you notice that the speedometer does not work any longer, replace the vehicle speed sensor as it is the most likely cause.
Can you clean a transmission speed sensor?
The transmission speed sensor measures the RPMs of the shaft of the transmission. ... In this case, the sensor may not have to be replaced as the sensor can be cleaned off . Yet, only a mechanic should make that determination because there may be damage to the electrical part of the sensor.
What are the symptoms of a bad transmission control solenoid?
- Delayed gear shifting.
- You can't downshift, and your engine continues to rev even when applying the brakes.
- Your transmission gets stuck in neutral.
- Shifting gears become rough and choppy.
Will a bad wheel speed sensor cause transmission problems?
A failing speed sensor will directly impact the transmission operation , leading to delayed shifting and limited gear choices, while numerous other sensors can have similar detrimental effects.
Can you drive with a bad speed sensor?
Can you drive with a bad speed sensor? In general, it is unsafe to drive a vehicle with a broken wheel speed sensor . The car's computer will not be able to determine the speed that your vehicle is traveling, so it might apply the brakes at a faster rate than necessary or increase the engine power.
Can ABS sensor cause transmission problems?
Occasionally, these sensors can fail or become faulty working intermittently sending inaccurate signals to the ECU. In your case it may be possible that the transmission is receiving a faulty signal from the ABS system.
What makes a speed sensor go bad?
Over time, the transmission speed sensor can go bad due to wiring issues or just outright failing due to it constantly being used every time you are driving your vehicle. If the sensor is magnetic, it can go bad from iron sticking to the tip of the sensor, which will cause an inaccurate reading.
