Identification. The vehicle speed sensor, or VSS, is located
near the transmission's output shaft
. The specific placement of the sensor allows the sensor to detect, and report, to the engine's computer through attachment cabling, the rotation and speed of the shaft.
How can you tell if VSS is bad?
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
.
What happens when a VSS goes bad?
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
.
How do you replace a VSS sensor?
- 1) Loosen and remove negative battery cable.
- 2) Locate the faulty speed sensor and disconnect the speed sensor connector.
- 4) Check the connector wiring to insure there are no breaks or exposed wire. …
- 5) Verify O-ring is installed on new sensor.
- 6) Install and tighten new sensor.
How do you test a VSS sensor?
You can test your VSS to make sure it's functioning properly by using a device called a
multimeter
. Start by disconnecting and removing the VSS from your engine so you can test it. You can then connect it to a multimeter and set the multimeter to the AC setting.
Can I drive my car 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.
What makes a speed sensor go bad?
As soon as the wheel turns, the cover is knocked off by the tone wheel teeth. It is common for dirt to accumulate on the sensor which inhibits its ability to generate a signal. … Although sensors can go bad, the most common problem is
faulty wiring or corroded electrical connections
.
Can a speed sensor be cleaned?
Speed sensors are part of a vehicle's anti-lock braking system (ABS). … The various components of the speed sensors can gather dirt from the road and from the dust that is generated by constant sharp braking.
Speed sensors need to be cleaned on a regular basis to avoid damaging the
anti-lock braking system.
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.
How much does it cost to replace transmission sensor?
Transmission Position Sensor Replacement Cost – RepairPal Estimate. Labor costs are
estimated between $136 and $172
while parts are priced between $112 and $125. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location.
How do you remove a speedometer sensor?
- Materials Needed. …
- Step 1: Jack up the vehicle and set jack stands. …
- Step 2: Place wheel chocks on both sides of wheels still on the ground. …
- Step 3: Remove the speedometer sensor mounting bolt. …
- Step 4: Remove the speedometer sensor. …
- Step 5: Unplug the electrical connector.
Which speed sensor controls the speedometer?
The output speed sensor
measures how fast a vehicle moves and sends that information to other vehicle systems. The transmission control unit uses the speed to determine when to change gears, adjust the torque converter and display the vehicle's speed in the speedometer.
What does the VSS sensor do?
The vehicle speed sensor (VSS)
measures transmission/transaxle output or wheel speed
. The ECM uses this information to modify engine functions such as ignition timing, air/fuel ratio, transmission shift points, and to initiate diagnostic routines.
How can I test my speedometer?
How to Test Accuracy of Speedometer. If you think your speedometer is inaccurate, you
can use a stopwatch to check
how accurate it is. Start the watch as you pass a mile marker while on the highway, and then stop it once you pass the next marker. The second hand on your stopwatch will be your speed.
Does a fuse control the speedometer?
If the mechanic believes that a fuse or bad wire has caused the speedometer to stop working, he or she will begin by examining the fuse to check if it has been blown. If so, the mechanic
will replace the fuse
.