What causes fault code P0501?

• Most likely: Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) • Likely: Corrosion or damaged connector at the sensor • Possible: Wiring harness open circuit or short to ground • Possible: Damages or debris on the reluctor ring (tone wheel) • Rare: Internal PCM or Instrument Cluster failure

How do you fix fault code P0501?

STEP 1: Visually inspect the VSS connector and wiring for corrosion, melting, or breakage. Clean with contact cleaner if needed. STEP 2: Test sensor resistance (Ohm). Inductive sensors typically read between 200–2500 Ohms. For Hall-effect sensors, verify 5V or 12V reference voltage and ground. STEP 3: Use an oscilloscope to monitor the signal (AC sine wave or DC square wave) while spinning the wheels. Frequency should increase linearly with speed. STEP 4: Inspect the reluctor wheel for broken teeth or significant debris buildup. STEP 5: If wiring and reluctor are sound, replace the VSS sensor and clear the DTC.

Powertrain (Engine & Gearbox)Standard EOBD

P0501 - Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Range/Performance

Q: What are the symptoms of fault code P0501?

• Check Engine Light (MIL) illumination • Inoperative or erratic speedometer • Cruise control failure • Harsh or delayed shifts (automatic transmissions) • ABS or Traction Control lights may be active • Vehicle may enter 'Limp Home' mode/reduced power

Last updated:1 February 2026

Related:Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), ABS Control Module, Transmission Control Module (TCM), Engine Control Module (ECM), Wiring Harness, Speedometer

System

Powertrain (Engine & Gearbox)

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P0500

Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) 'A' Range/Performance

P0502

Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Circuit Low Input

P0503

Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) Intermittent/Erratic/High

P0504

Brake Switch A/B Correlation

Technical Description

P0501 is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects that the signal from the Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) 'A' is irrational or outside the calibrated performance range. The ECM cross-references the VSS signal with input from wheel speed sensors (via the ABS module) and engine load/RPM. If a discrepancy is found (e.g., high RPM/load but zero speed signal), the code is stored. This data is critical for shift scheduling, speedometer operation, and cruise control. On modern CAN-bus systems, a faulty VSS signal can lead to limp-home mode to protect the drivetrain.

Possible Causes

Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)

Corrosion or damaged connector at the sensor

Wiring harness open circuit or short to ground

Damages or debris on the reluctor ring (tone wheel)

Internal PCM or Instrument Cluster failure

Symptoms

Check Engine Light (MIL) illumination

Inoperative or erratic speedometer

Cruise control failure

Harsh or delayed shifts (automatic transmissions)

ABS or Traction Control lights may be active

Vehicle may enter 'Limp Home' mode/reduced power

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P0501 - Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Range/Performance

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P0501 - Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Range/Performance

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