Set the multimeter to AC to test your VSS. Look for a dial on your multimeter that has numbers and letters on it. The AC, or alternating current, setting may be labeled as AC, V with a squiggly line, or ACV. Turn the dial until the arrow or indicating line is pointing to the AC setting.
What causes code P0500?
Error Code P0500 is defined as Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction, indicating a malfunction in the vehicle speed sensor circuit, which is usually caused by a defective speed sensor or problems in the wiring harness.
What is a vehicle speed sensor (VSS)?
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.
What does a p0500 code mean on a VSS sensor?
If the reading doesn’t match your actual speed, something is wrong with the sensor or its circuit. If the reading does match but you still have a P0500 code, you likely have an intermittent problem. If your vehicle fails the test listed above, it’s time to determine what part of the VSS circuit is to blame.
How do you test a VSS sensor with a multimeter?
Using your multimeter on the DC voltage setting, back probe the sensor wire. Attach the black multimeter cable to battery ground. Turning the wheels, you should see the voltage reading on the meter fluctuate. (Courtesy: hubpages.com) While a meter can be used to test VSS sensors, it’s much better to test them with an oscilloscope.
Why is my Check Engine light on with a bad VSS?
Your vehicle’s check engine light can be triggered by the PCM for a myriad of reasons—one of which is a faulty VSS. You’ll need to connect your vehicle to an OBD-II scan tool to confirm whether the error code is pointing to a VSS malfunction.
