OBD-II diagnostic trouble code
P0500Caution
Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction
The vehicle speed sensor tells the computer how fast the car is actually moving — used for the speedometer, transmission shift timing, cruise control, ABS, and stability control. A malfunction here can quietly affect several systems at once, even if the engine itself runs fine.
Symptoms
- Speedometer reading incorrectly, jumping, or dropping to zero while driving
- Cruise control won't engage or disengages unexpectedly
- Automatic transmission may shift harshly or at the wrong times
- ABS or stability control warning lights may also come on, since they share this signal
Likely causes
- Failed vehicle speed sensor
- Damaged wiring or a corroded connector at the sensor (often exposed to road grime, depending on location)
- A damaged tone ring/reluctor at the transmission output shaft or wheel hub, depending on where the sensor reads from
How to diagnose it
- Check the sensor wiring and connector for damage or corrosion first
- Compare the speed sensor's live data reading (scan tool) against GPS speed or another known-accurate reference while driving
- Inspect the tone ring/reluctor for damage if the sensor and wiring check out fine
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Code names are compiled from open/standardized SAE and ISO references. Explanations, symptoms, causes and fixes are original. Covers generic (P0/C0/B0/U0) codes only — manufacturer-specific codes are planned for a future update.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with P0500?
You can usually keep driving with P0500, but don't put it off — the underlying cause can get worse or lead to further damage the longer it goes unaddressed. Get it diagnosed as soon as you reasonably can.
How much does it cost to fix P0500?
Typical repair costs for {code} range from roughly 60 to 220 EUR, depending on the specific cause and your car — see the fixes listed above for a breakdown.
What causes P0500?
Failed vehicle speed sensor Damaged wiring or a corroded connector at the sensor (often exposed to road grime, depending on location) A damaged tone ring/reluctor at the transmission output shaft or wheel hub, depending on where the sensor reads from
Reviewed by Artyom SemenovAutomotive Editor · Fact-checked by Yauheni Kapliarchuk, Editor-in-Chief