P0500 Code: Vehicle Speed Sensor A
P0500 means the ECM isn’t receiving a valid vehicle speed signal.
- Applies to
- All OBD-II vehicles (any make or model)
- Est. repair cost
- $60 – $400
- Time to fix
- 1-3 hours
What it means
Common causes are a failed vehicle speed sensor, wiring/connector faults, or (on some cars) an ABS/wheel-speed source fault. This is a generic OBD-II powertrain code defined in the SAE J2012 standard, so it applies to virtually any 1996-or-newer OBD-II vehicle — cars, trucks, and modern fuel-injected motorcycles — from any manufacturer (Toyota, Honda, Ford and the rest). Read it with any OBD-II scanner; the meaning is the same across brands, though the exact repair can vary by engine.
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Speedometer erratic or dead
- Cruise control and shifting may be affected
How to fix it
- 1
Test the speed sensor and wiring
1. Inspect the VSS connector and wiring. 2. Test for a speed signal; replace the sensor if dead. 3. Clear the code.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my speedometer dead with P0500?
The same speed signal feeds the ECM and often the speedometer, so a sensor or wiring fault can knock out both.
Last updated July 16, 2026
Guidance only — always consult a qualified professional or the official service manual before carrying out repairs.