1997 Honda Accord Cannot detect speed sensor

1997 HONDA ACCORD
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TENNISGIRL37
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Engine Mechanical problem
1997 Honda Accord 4 cyl Front Wheel Drive Manual 185 K miles

A few months ago I started my car and as I proceeded to drive the speedometer/odometer weren't working. A minute later my check engine light came on. We hooked up the diagnostic thing and it said "cannot detect speed sensor". We detached the speed sensor and re-attached it. The part is about 100 bucks. Do you think it is the actual speed sensor or a wiring problem? Is it as simple as buying a new speed sensor and replacing it, or is there calibration involved?
Dec 5, 2008 at 1:08 PM
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DAVE H
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this could be either .. wires or the actual sensor faulty ?? when you removed wires and replaced did it work again ?? theres no calibration involved you simply unscrew old an on with the new ...

the orange wire from sensor goes to a junction on left side of dash then to PCM ...yellow wire goes to fuse #1 in under dash fuse/relay box .. black goes to ground on left rear of engine ..
Dec 5, 2008 at 2:14 PM
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TENNISGIRL37
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Just to add a note.. when I detached/reattached the speed sensor nothing changed.
Dec 30, 2008 at 4:08 AM
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LORD FARRINGDON
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The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) produces a pulsing voltage whenever vehicle speed is over 3 mph. The data is transmitted to the PCM which uses it for speedometer operation. You should remove the electrical connector from the VSS and check for circuit continuity (on the harness side). The circuit should have battery voltage available. If no voltage is available then check for an open circuit between the VSS and the drivers side fuse box. Check the fuse. If everything is ok here then the problem is likely to be with the VSS itself. To check this, place the electical connector back on the VSS and raise the front wheels off the ground (use stands). Turn the ignition ON (leave engine off) and back probe the VSS connector with an ohmmeter. (Positive terminal to the blue/white lead and negative to the black lead.) Securely block or hold one of the front wheels and the spin then other by hand. The ohmmeter should pulse between 0 and 5 volts. If it doesn't, replace the sensor.

A Dave H explained replacement is as simple as pulling out the old sensor and putting in the new one but do make sure you use a new o-ring. Hope this helps. :)
Dec 30, 2008 at 5:43 AM
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DAVE H
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use a voltmeter across terminals yellow wire (hot) and black wire (ground) you should have 12 volts @ key on engine off .. if no voltage check fuse and wiring ... then
VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR (VSS) TEST (1)
ApplicationVoltage
VSS(2)
(1)Backprobe terminals at sensor.
(2)Voltage will fluctuate between zero and 5 volts while rotating drive wheel.

use digital voltmeter across actual sensor terminals with front wheels off the ground if no voltage or voltage change replace sensor
Dec 30, 2008 at 5:47 AM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.