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OBD-II · Engine and powertrain (P)

P0500

Vehicle speed sensor fault

What it means

The vehicle speed signal is missing or implausible.

Symptoms

  • speedometer not working or erratic
  • ABS or traction control warning
  • cruise control and start-stop not working
  • erratic gear changes on automatics

Likely causes, most likely first

Likely causes, most likely first
No.Cause
01wheel speed sensor fault
02gearbox speed sensor fault
03ABS module issue
04wiring damage
05incorrect tyre size or signal coding

What to check, step by step

  1. 01Read the ABS/ESP module codes first: on most modern European cars vehicle speed comes from the wheel speed sensors
  2. 02Compare the four wheel speeds in live data while driving slowly
  3. 03Inspect the wheel speed sensors, their wiring and the magnetic rings or tone wheels
  4. 04Check network (CAN) communication between the ABS, engine and instrument modules
  5. 05Check tyre sizes are correct and matched