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P0500 - Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) A

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P0500 - VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR (VSS) A

Description:  This DTC sets when an error in the vehicle speed information is detected. Vehicle speed data is received from either the VSS or the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module. If the engine RPM is above the torque converter stall speed (automatic transmission) and the engine load is high, it can be inferred that the vehicle must be moving. If there is insufficient vehicle speed data input to the PCM, a concern is indicated and this DTC sets. On most vehicle applications the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminates when this DTC sets.
Possible Causes: 
  • VSS+ circuit open (VR type)
  • VSS- circuit open (VR type)
  • VSS circuit open (Hall effect type)
  • VSS circuit short to ground (Hall effect type)
  • VSS circuit short to voltage (Hall effect type)
  • Damaged drive mechanism for VSS
  • Damaged VSS
  • Damaged wheel speed sensors
  • Damaged wheel speed sensor harness circuits
Diagnostic Aids:  Monitor the VSS PID while driving the vehicle. This DTC sets when a sudden loss of vehicle speed signal over a period of time is detected. If vehicle speed data is lost, check the source of the vehicle speed input: VSS or ABS.
Application  Key On Engine Off  Key On Engine Running  Continuous Memory 
F-650/F-750,
F-Series Super Duty,
Fiesta,
Fusion,
Motorhome/Stripped Chassis/Step Van
GO to PINPOINT TEST DF: VEHICLE SPEED CIRCUIT (VSC) CHECK .
Manual Transmission GO to PINPOINT TEST DP: OUTPUT SHAFT SPEED (OSS) SENSOR/VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR (VSS) .
Automatic Transmission The PCM uses information from the ABS module and the transmission control module (TCM) to calculate vehicle speed. Check these modules for DTCs.