It's better to talk, especially where your car is concerned. And the good news is that over the past 20 years or so, cars have learned to talk about how they're feeling, and can now let you know early on that something is amiss behind the scenes through a warning light and a fault-code reader. Click here to see our test of the best fault-code readers you can buy.
Here, we explain what some of the most common fault codes mean.
P0500
This code indicates that there is a problem with the Vehicle Speed Sensor, which is usually located at each wheel or by the transmission. The VSS measures your car’s speed and sends this information to the engine control unit (ECU) so it can make adjustments to the powertrain operation accordingly. A faulty sensor will usually cause the car to either lose power or jerk, as it is unable to adjust the powertrain accordingly.
What are the symptoms of the P0500 code?
Symptoms of this fault code may include a loss of power, jerking while driving, and failure of the vehicle's speedometer or odometer. Additionally, you may see a check engine light illuminated on your dashboard.
What causes the P0500 code?
There are several potential causes for this code, including a faulty speed sensor, bad wiring connections, corroded connectors or damaged wires, and an ECU malfunction. Additionally, some vehicles may indicate a P0500 code due to low fluid levels in the transmission.
Can you drive with a P0500 code?
In most cases, the P0500 code should not leave you stranded because it is typically an intermittent issue. However, if left unchecked the problem can get worse and cause more serious issues such as a complete loss of power or transmission failure. Therefore, it is essential that you investigate and repair your vehicle as soon as possible.
How to diagnose a P0500 fault code
The best way to diagnose a P0500 fault code is to use an OBD-II scanner. This device will allow you to drill down and find out exactly where the issue lies. Additionally, it can be used to reset the check engine light once the problem has been fixed.
How to fix the P0500 code
To fix a P0500 code, you will need to start by checking the wiring and replacing any damaged parts. Once this is done, you should test for voltage with a multimeter before replacing the VSS if necessary and resetting the ECU. Your vehicle's Haynes manual will be able to tell you exactly where the sensor is, and how to remove and replace it.
After these steps have been completed, it is then recommended that you test drive your vehicle in order to verify that the fault has been remedied.
