What are the symptoms of a speed sensor malfunction? The most common symptoms for speed sensor (VSS-) failure are listed below.
Also known as output shaft speed or transmission speed sensor, vehicle speed sensor (VSS), is also known by other names. This sensor is used to determine the vehicle’s speed by measuring the rotational velocity of the transmission shaft’s toothed wheels. It is typically a sensor that is mounted in the transmission.
VSS generates low voltage signals that allow one or more control modules to share information about the vehicle’s speed. This data is used by the engine, transmission control modules to make your vehicle run more efficiently. Other systems (such as cruise controller) could also benefit depending on the vehicle’s features.
A bad speed sensor could cause your vehicle to be unsafe. Knowing the symptoms of bad speed sensors is a great idea.
Five Most Common Signs of Speed Sensor Failure
1. Transmission problems
The transmission control module or powertrain controller module (PCM), which receives the vehicle speed information from the VSS, uses it to determine the shift timing. Failing speed sensors directly affect the operation and performance of the automatic transmission.
An abnormal operation of an automatic transmission is one of the most obvious signs that a speed sensor has failed. Shifts can become inconsistent, laggy, harsh or difficult to control if the VSS is defective.
2. Faulty Speedometer
VSS is used in many vehicles as the primary input to speedometer operation. The VSS can fail and cause the speedometer to not read correctly or even stop working.
The vehicle will still run but it will not be able to cover the distance. It can be dangerous to drive fast if you don’t know.
3. Cruise Control is not working
When the PCM cannot receive VSS information, your vehicle’s cruise control will be disabled. This happens because the system needs sensor data in order to maintain your car’s constant speed.
4. Torque Converter Clutch Inoperative
The speed at which the torque converter clutch activates is preprogrammed. The transmission cannot activate the torque converter clutch without accurate vehicle speed information.
This can lead to transmission slippage, high fuel use and transmission overheating.
5. Engine Malfunction light on
There are many reasons why a check engine lamp can be activated by the PCM. A malfunctioning VSS is one of these reasons. You must connect your vehicle with an OBD-II scanner tool to verify that the error code is indicative of a VSS malfunction.
Additional warning lights, such as ABS or traction control system alerts, may also be visible on the instrument cluster.
