VOLVO
ECM-500D - Engine speed (RPM) sensor signal. Signal too low
System
Engine Control Module (ECM)
Volvo models this fault code applies to
Applies to the following models:
5 modelsS60 (2001–2009), S80 (1999–2006), V70 (2000–2008), V70 XC / XC70 (2001–2007), XC90 (2003–)
Show models by year and engine (14)
- Volvo S60 (2001–2009)2005–2006Engine B5204T5, B5244T4, B5244T5, B5254T2, B5254T4 only
- Volvo S60 (2001–2009)2007Engine B5204T5, B5244T5, B5254T2, B5254T4 only
- Volvo S60 (2001–2009)2008–2009Engine B5204T5, B5244T5, B5254T2 only
- Volvo S80 (1999–2006)2005–2006Engine B5204T5, B5244T4, B5254T2, B6294S2, B6294T only
- Volvo V70 (2000–2008)2005Engine B5204T5, B5244T4, B5244T5, B5254T2, B5254T4 only
- Volvo V70 (2000–2008)2006–2007Engine B5204T5, B5244T5, B5254T2, B5254T4 only
- Volvo V70 (2000–2008)2008Engine B5254T2 only
- Volvo V70 XC / XC70 (2001–2007)2005All engines except: D5244T
- Volvo V70 XC / XC70 (2001–2007)2006Engine B5244T4, B5254T2 only
- Volvo V70 XC / XC70 (2001–2007)2007Engine B5254T2 only
- Volvo XC90 (2003–)2005–2006Engine B5254T2, B6294T only
- Volvo XC90 (2003–)2007–2012Engine B5254T2 only
- Volvo XC90 (2003–)2013–2014Engine B5254T9 only
- Volvo XC90 (2003–)2015
What does this fault code mean?
The engine control module counts the teeth on the flywheel through the signal from the engine speed sensor. If it counts at least one tooth too few within a set number of engine revolutions, the code is set. The cause may be interference, an incorrectly fitted sensor or a damaged flywheel or ring gear.
Possible causes
- Signal interference from nearby cables
- Incorrectly fitted engine speed sensor
- Damaged flywheel or ring gear
What you can do
- 1Check that the connector to the engine speed sensor is firmly seated and free from oxidation
- 2Check whether the starter motor cable or other high-current cables run too close to the sensor wiring, and that they are routed correctly
- 3Check that the engine speed sensor is correctly fitted
- 4Have a workshop check that the engine-to-transmission bolts are correctly tightened, since poor earthing can disturb the sensor
- 5If the fault remains, have a workshop examine the flywheel and ring gear
Symptoms you may notice2
- Engine is difficult to start
- Poor performance
What the fault can affect2
- If the camshaft position sensor is adapted, the control module takes its signal instead
- VVT control is blocked
General guidance for car owners. Diagnosis on the car can point to a different cause.