P0500

Circuit Description
The vehicle speed sensor (VSS) is located behind the I/P cluster assembly. The powertrain control module (PCM) supplies 5 volts to the VSS. The VSS incorporates a reed switch that opens and closes four times per revolution of the speedometer cable. The VSS signal voltage at the PCM toggles high and low when the reed switch opens and closes. The PCM converts the toggled high/low voltage into a vehicle speed reading that is displayed in km/h (mph).

Conditions for Running the DTC
Vehicle is operating in fuel cutoff mode.

Conditions for Setting the DTC
^ No vehicle speed sensor signal during fuel cutoff mode.
^ Condition is present for more than 4 seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets
^ The PCM illuminates the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) after two consecutive ignition cycles in which the diagnostic runs with the fault active.
^ The PCM records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails.This information is stored in the Freeze Frame buffer.
^ The PCM enters the Fail-Safe Function and stops ISC operation.

Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC
^ The MIL turns OFF after three consecutively passing trips without a fault present.
^ A History DTC clears after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles without a fault.
^ Use the scan tool Clear DTC Information function or disconnect the PCM battery feed in order to clear the DTC.

Diagnostic Aids
Check for a faulty speedometer cable. A binding speedometer cable may set a false DTC P0500. Make sure that the speedometer cable is free from any restrictions and that the cable has a secure connection to the I/P cluster assembly.
An intermittent malfunction may be caused by a fault in the VSS electrical circuit. Inspect the wiring harness and components for any of the following conditions:
^ Backed out terminals.
^ Improper mating of terminals.
^ Broken electrical connector locks.
^ Improperly formed or damaged terminals.
^ Faulty terminal to wire connections.
^ Physical damage to the wiring harness.
^ A broken wire inside the insulation.
^ Corrosion of electrical connections, splices, or terminals.
If a DTC P0500 cannot be duplicated, the information included in the Freeze Frame data can be useful in determining vehicle operating conditions when the DTC was first set.

Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers in the Diagnostic Table.
1. The Powertrain OBD System Check prompts the technician to complete some basic checks and store the freeze frame data on the scan tool if applicable. This creates an electronic copy of the data taken when the fault occurred. The information is then stored in the scan tool for later reference.
2. This step determines if the fault is present.
4. This step checks for the 5 volt reference signal from the PCM. The VSS is located behind the I/P cluster assembly.