Code P0500, where is the vehicle speed sensor's location and how simple is it to get to and replace?

Tiny
HARDROCK72
  • MEMBER
  • 2014 NISSAN ALTIMA
  • 2.5L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 215,000 MILES
The speedometer on my car will stop working and the brake light will come on while I'm driving the car. My check engine light and ABS light has also came on. I ran a code scan, and it gave me a P0500? It says vehicle speed sensor circuit malfunction. Where is the vehicle speed sensor located on my car and how simple is it to get to and replace? Please help.
Thursday, August 24th, 2023 AT 7:33 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 42,967 POSTS
Sure, the output shaft speed sensor is on the transmission case near the CV axle output. Here is more information on the code and I have included the location of the sensor and how to replace it in the images below.

The OBD-II code P0500 for a 2014 Nissan Altima refers to a problem with the vehicle speed sensor. This sensor, also known as the VSS (Vehicle Speed Sensor) or OSS (Output Shaft Speed) sensor, is responsible for monitoring the speed of the vehicle and sending this information to the engine control module (ECM) or transmission control module (TCM).

When the ECM or TCM detects that the signal from the vehicle speed sensor is missing, erratic, or out of range, it will trigger the P0500 code and illuminate the check engine light. This can lead to issues with the vehicle's performance, fuel efficiency, and transmission operation.

Here are some potential causes of a P0500 code on a 2014 Nissan Altima:

Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor: The sensor itself could be malfunctioning or damaged, causing it to provide incorrect or no readings to the ECM or TCM.

Wiring or Connector Issues: Wiring harnesses or connectors related to the vehicle speed sensor could be damaged, corroded, or disconnected, preventing proper signal transmission.

Faulty Instrument Cluster: Sometimes, the issue might not be with the sensor itself but with the instrument cluster's ability to communicate with the ECM or TCM.

Faulty ECM or TCM: In rare cases, a malfunction in the engine control module or transmission control module could lead to erroneous P0500 code readings.

Check out the images (below). Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.
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Friday, August 25th, 2023 AT 12:11 PM

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