Home/Lexus/LS/Lexus LS III (2000-2003)/Repair manual/Testing & Diagnostics/DTC P0500: VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR (VSS) MALFUNCTION
Contents Wiring diagrams Section: Testing & Diagnostics All sections

DTC P0500: VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR (VSS) MALFUNCTION Lexus LS III

CAUTIONIf ECM replacement is instructed in following testing, always ensure ECM harness connector and ground circuit are okay. If either are suspect, repair and repeat testing to confirm ECM malfunction. If ECM is replaced, ECM must be programmed with proper ignition key code for engine immobilizer system. For programming procedures, see COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMATION.

Circuit Description

ECM receives pulse signal from VSS, which is driven by transmission output shaft. Signal is used by ECM to determine vehicle speed. DTC is set if there is no VSS signal to ECM while vehicle is being driven or if park/neutral position switch is off. Possible causes are

  1. Faulty vehicle speed sensor.
  2. Open or short in VSS circuit.
  3. Faulty ECM.

Diagnostic Aids

Using scan tool, read freeze frame data. Freeze frame records engine conditions when malfunction is detected.