P0500: Vehicle speed sensor malfunction

What P0500 means

The speed signal the computer receives is missing or does not make sense. It can affect the speedometer, shifting and cruise control.

Common symptoms

• Speedometer or cruise control not working
• Slipping or harsh gear shifts
• ABS, traction or other warning lights on

Common causes

• Faulty speed sensor or its wiring
• Damaged wiring, corroded connector or blown fuse

Can I keep driving?

Fix soon. Usually drivable for a short time, but get it checked soon. Ignoring it can waste fuel, raise emissions and lead to more damage.

What to do next

1. Write down the code and any symptoms you notice.
2. Check the simple things first: the fuel cap, loose connectors and fluid levels where they apply.
3. Do not just clear the code. If the light comes back, the cause is still there and needs a proper diagnosis.
4. Read live data and freeze frame data with an OBD-II scanner app to see what the car was doing when the code was set.

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