Engine-CodesToyota – P0500 Toyota

P0500 Toyota Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A'

Quick Answer

The P0500 code for a Toyota indicates a malfunction in the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A'. Common causes include Faulty vehicle speed sensor, Damaged or corroded wiring connected to the speed sensor, Issues with the speedometer cluster. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0500 Toyota indicates Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A'.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty vehicle speed sensor, Damaged or corroded wiring connected to the speed sensor, Issues with the speedometer cluster.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 19, 2024
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Code P0500 Toyota Description

The P0500 code for a Toyota indicates a malfunction in the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A'. This sensor is responsible for monitoring the speed of the vehicle and sending this information to the engine control module. The speed sensor plays a crucial role in several systems of the vehicle, including the transmission, ABS, and cruise control. When this sensor fails or malfunctions, it can lead to inaccurate speed readings, affecting the vehicle's performance and safety.

OBDII Code P0500 Toyota - Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A'
P0500 Toyota Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A'

Common Causes of P0500 Toyota

  1. Faulty vehicle speed sensor
  2. Damaged or corroded wiring connected to the speed sensor
  3. Issues with the speedometer cluster
  4. Problems with the engine control module
  5. Electrical issues affecting the speed sensor circuit

Symptoms of P0500 Toyota

  1. Inaccurate speedometer readings
  2. Check Engine Light illuminated
  3. Harsh shifting of the transmission
  4. Loss of cruise control functionality
  5. ABS warning light on the dashboard

How to Fix P0500 Toyota

  1. Diagnose the issue by using a scan tool to retrieve the trouble code and testing the vehicle speed sensor.
  2. Inspect the wiring and connectors for any damage or corrosion, repairing or replacing as necessary.
  3. Test the vehicle speed sensor using a multimeter to ensure it is functioning correctly.
  4. Replace the faulty vehicle speed sensor if it is determined to be the cause of the issue.
  5. Clear the trouble code from the engine control module and test drive the vehicle to ensure the problem has been resolved.

Cost to Fix P0500 Toyota

The cost of repairing a P0500 code in a Toyota can vary depending on the specific model and the extent of the issue. On average, the repair cost for replacing a vehicle speed sensor can range from $150 to $300, including parts and labor. However, additional costs may be incurred if there are other underlying issues causing the code. It is recommended to consult with a mechanic or auto repair shop for a more accurate estimate based on your vehicle's needs.

Tech Notes for P0500 Toyota

There are Factory Service Bulletin for the following Toyota models:
2005 Toyota Camry
2006 Toyota Camry
2006 Toyota Solara
2005-2006 Toyota Camry, Solara Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P0500

2007 Toyota Camry
2008 Toyota Camry
2009 Toyota Camry
2007-2009 Toyota Camry Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P0500









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Information for Specific Toyota Models

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0500 Toyota Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0500 in a Toyota related to the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A'?

- Common symptoms include erratic speedometer readings, inoperative cruise control, harsh shifting, and an illuminated check engine light.

2. What are some possible causes of OBDII code P0500 in a Toyota?

- Potential causes include a faulty vehicle speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning speedometer, or issues with the vehicle's ECM.

3. How can I diagnose the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' issue triggering OBDII code P0500 in my Toyota?

- You can diagnose the problem by visually inspecting the speed sensor and its wiring, testing the sensor's output using a multimeter, and checking for any related trouble codes in the system.

4. What are some DIY repair tips for addressing OBDII code P0500 related to the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' in a Toyota?

- DIY repair tips include checking and cleaning the sensor connections, replacing the vehicle speed sensor if faulty, and ensuring all wiring is secure and free of damage.

5. Can driving with OBDII code P0500 triggered by the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' issue cause further damage to my Toyota?

- Continuing to drive with this issue may lead to inaccurate speed readings, potential transmission problems, and reduced fuel efficiency, so it's best to address it promptly.

6. Is it safe to reset the OBDII code P0500 related to the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' in my Toyota using a diagnostic tool?

- While resetting the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, it will not fix the underlying issue causing the fault code and may lead to missing critical information for proper diagnosis and repair.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0500 related to the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' in a Toyota at a mechanic or dealership?

- Repair costs can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but on average, expect to pay between $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

8. Can a malfunctioning Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' causing OBDII code P0500 affect other systems in my Toyota?

- Yes, a faulty speed sensor can impact other vehicle systems that rely on speed data, such as the transmission, cruise control, and ABS.

9. Are there any preventive maintenance steps to avoid OBDII code P0500 related to the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' in my Toyota?

- Regularly inspecting and cleaning the speed sensor, ensuring proper wiring connections, and addressing any issues promptly can help prevent this code from occurring.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0500 caused by the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' issue in a Toyota?

- The repair time can vary based on the exact cause of the problem and the technician's expertise, but most repairs related to this code can be completed within a few hours to a day.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0500 Toyota OBDII Code

  • Have a 2004 Toyota sienna. replaced speed sensor two days later engine light comes on again. now shows code p07903. Rechecked my work and reset system. What else can I try.

  • You may have to check the sensor gear, Also could please double check the other code, there is no code P07903.

  • My 20006 Toyota Sienna Van "check engine light" came on the other day.
    I went to my mechanic, had a diagnostic check done and was told that the Code
    P0500 pending showed up on their check.
    Afterward, the "check engine" light went off and stayed off.
    What should be my next step- get further tests?
    Please let me know!
    Thanks
    Roy

  • 2002 toyota siena code po500

  • I recenty changed my transmission in my toyota corolla 2003 1nz-fe an the car would go into top gear it's only going up to 3rd the speedometer don't work either I took it to the shop an the ran a diagnostic on it an it read speed sensor circuit we tried changing around the wire an I'm getting the same problem plz help....

  • Have a 2009 toyota corollo my check egine and traction control light came on, now when take off in drive the motor strain a little for about twenty feet before speeding up to nomal speed.had it code checked at auto zone, codes po974 and po751 was indicated. Can someone tell me what thay are and the cost to repair. Let me know. Randall

  • P0974 Toyota - Shift Solenoid 'A' Control Circuit High
    Read more: https://www.autocodes.com...

    P0751 Toyota - Shift Solenoid 'A' Performance
    Read more: https://www.autocodes.com...

    Both codes related to the transmission shifting solenoids. You should have a transmission shop inspect the transmission.

  • P0500 , my 07 yaris won't shift to 4th gear?

  • Due to the age of you Yaris and the fact that the transmission won't shift into 4th gear, you may have a problem with the transmission. I recommend having a transmission shop inspect the transmission for you. How is the transmission fluid level and condition? does the fluid color is dark and has a burnt smell?

  • Were can i find the shift ssolenoid

  • The solenoid is inside the transmission attached to the valve body. What model and year is your Toyota?

  • My 2007 Sienna just popped a P0500 on Monday. I cleared the code on Tuesday and it came back on Thursday. :( Read a lot of people who replaced the Speed Sensor and it didn't help with the code. Any way to figure out specifically which part it might be?

  • Only way to be certain what the problem is, is by monitoring the signal from the speed sensor with an OBDII scanner and inspect the wires. Here is some information from the service manual:

  • Hay plz any one tell me where is toyota camry 2014 model speed sensor loction plz plzplzz

  • Hello. i own a 2003 Pontiac Vibe , 3 day a go my dpedd meter stop working , chek engine light came on, ABS light aswell , initial scan give a P0500 code . i have instal a new speed sensor on the right rear or passenger side of the car but the problem persist. ca any one help pmease

  • Do you have an automatic or manual transmission? did you replaced the sensor on the transmission?

  • Buenas yo tengo una 4Runner SR5 2005 y me da el mismo código pero ya revise los sensores y no se si lleva un fusible si me pueden ayudar. ..

  • Funciona velocímetro? si no le funciona entoces es problem con el velocímetro y no con los sensores.

  • Hey Im working on a 2000 Toyota Duet, It was a mechanical speed sensor in the top of the trans for driving the speedo however im getting the P0500 fault. all the ABS wheel speed sensors are working fine. any idea how this particualr system works. wondering if the mechanical signal is converted into digital in the guage cluster. The speedo works fine all the time.

    any help would be much appreciated.

  • Toyota vehicle speed sensors, need to be replaces if necessary.

  • Tengo una Toyota Sienna 2006 se prende el foco engine y abs y al scanear aparece el código P0500 que debo hacer sustituir la ECM?

  • No, posiblemente uno de los sensores de velocidad de las llantas (ABS Sensors) no esta registrando la velocidad correctamente correctamente. Tiene que llevarlo con un mecanico para que con un scanner encuentre que sensor esta malo.

  • Gracias, lo llevare en cuanto tenga respuesta les comento que fue.

  • Hi Auto this is what I hv Toyota Avalon 2003 vehicle speed sensor A P0500

  • Could be one of the ABS Speed Sensor (Wheel Sensor) or the combination meter (Speedometer)

  • Hi! My 04 Solara 3.3L Has a code P0500, the tranny was shifting roughly, and ABS light came on along with check engine light. I cannot find a gear VVS sensor on the tranny, but instead, I found 2 VVS sensors, one below the starter and another below the battery holder, I replace both VVS sensors then erase the code using OBDII. But the light came back on, the tranny shifting roughly, and the speedometer stops working like before. Could it be ECM or something else?

    Please help!
    Nate

  • For your specific Toyota, the vehicle speed is determined by the ABS speed sensor on each wheel.

    It possible that there is a problem with one of the wheel speed sensor, which may explain the ABS and transmission problem. Was there an ABS code?

    Sometimes the problem is just dirty sensor, and cleaning the sensors may take care of the problem.

    Image

    Click here to enlarge image

  • Saludos tengo ese problema y no lo he podido resolver le cambie el speed sensor del lado izq y limpie el del otro lado y le apague las luces del panel pero me volvieron a prender. Fui a un Mecanico y me dijo que todo está funcionando bien pero siguen prendidas en el panel.

  • I want to see the image of vehicle speed meter sensor

  • i have a toyota sienna 2006, but when i drive in normal conditions, out of city in freeway with many curves speed between 35 mph to 45mph, when take curves, suddenly the car brake and cut the gas, and track off and vcs light turn on. I read this issue it's common on this cars, No check engine light on, but it's worry. I read that some people with this problem took the car to the dealer but they won't fix it,

  • What model and year is your Toyota?

  • hi,would appreciate if someone could help,have 96model prado kzj95 and while driving for sometime the od light starts flashing,no problems with gear transmission its automatic,got error code 61 under diagnostics which says speed sensor 2 having problem,replaced worked fine for quite long time and the problem re appeared any insights please.

  • My 2008 toyota Avalon xls gives a P0500 (vss A),i clear the code and at around 10 mph it comes back on.. could you please guide me as to which speed sensor this is? ive cleaned and i would say checked all the wheel speed sensors,checked the harnesses and all seem fine but i think there are more speed sensors and i would like to have a list of all the speed sensors that my vehicle has. Also my speedometer works perfectly.no problems in tranny shift.

    thnx

  • CAMRY 2011 0BD CODE P0500

  • P0500 2011 TOYOTA CAMRY - Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A'

    Read more: https://www.autocodes.com/p...

  • Help me locate toyota sienna speed sensor 201

  • hi i have a 2005 camry sometimes when i am driving the abs light, brake light ,check engine light.
    and the speedometer stops working and the trans shifts rough code is po500 A
    which sensors is a fault i have wheel sensors and 3 on the motor i have 2,4L 4 cylinder

  • Diagnosing the P0500 is a bit complicated. You have to use an OBDII scanner a read the signal from each sensor.
    The ABS control module receive the signal from the wheel sensors and sends the signal to the Engine Control Module (ECM) through the Combination Meter. Then ECM receives the signal from the Transmission Speed Sensors (also known as Turbine Speed Sensor and Counter Gear Speed Sensor) and calculates the engine speed.
    Do you have any other code? Sometimes you get another code in the ABS to TCM that could help you diagnose the problem.

  • then replaced the speed sensor

  • no other code just po500 A

  • I have a 2006 Toyota Tacoma that keeps throwing the P0500 'Speed Sensor A' code. The only issue it is having is that the cruise control works randomly and will kick off randomly when it is engaged and working. I replaced one speed sensor on the left side of the transmission and when it kicked back on, I placed the one I had removed on the right side of the transmission, but it still came back on. Drives, shifts and registers speed fine. Any further guidance on finding the issue? Will admit that I should have sprayed both plugs out with electric parts cleaner when I was replacing the VSS, but neither location appeared dirty or corroded.

  • i clean the front right and left abs sensors and it fixed the problem o was having thank you for the info

  • cleared problem for a bit now i am still having same problem and i checked front wheel sensors and they were clean the abs ,brake, check engine light ,all come on
    speedo stops working trans does not shift right ?

  • speedo stops working trans does not shift right ?

    Correct.

    The best way to proceed with the diagnosis is to get an OBDII code reader and read the signal from each sensor. Unfortunately without reading the signal you will be just guessing what the problem is.
    Just based on the code, the next step is to replace the "Combination Meter". There is also a factory service manual (see "Tech Notes" above) that recommend reprogramming the ECM to repair the problem, but the bulletin is very old and your vehicle may already have the latest ECM program.

    Here is some information from the manual

    Image

    Click here to enlarge image
    Image

    Click here to enlarge image

  • i did see the bulletin on the reprogramming the ecu went to Toyota but out of warranty and i am not sure if it was ever done i will get the number off ecm and check it out thank you for the info on my car

  • My 2004 Toyota solaria speed sensor A has no prongs to connect wires to. Did this year come with multiple variations of this sensor?

  • Did you ever figure out what was the problem? My 05 Tacoma doesn't pass smog because of that p0500 A. My mechanic friend wants to drop the transmission to change the sensor. I was not expecting a major job like that. I can't get my tags until I fix this issue.

  • I have a 2011 Toyota 4Runner limited the code p500 comes on for the speed sensor so I replaced the speed sensors and I didn't fix the problem;and now the mechanic is telling me a wire is corroded to that goes to the wire junk box that won't send the signal to my sensors so I don't know what to do cuz they want $2,300 to fix this problem when it's just a wire corroded so where would that wire be going to the junction box

  • Several factors necessitate that the sensor wires do not run directly from the sensor to the computer. Instead, they pass through a junction box before connecting to the computer. Locating the precise point of corrosion or a broken wire can be a time-consuming process. In some instances, it may be more efficient to replace the entire wire harness to resolve the issue. Given the cost involved, it's quite likely that the shop is suggesting a harness replacement as the solution to the problem. You should try getting a second opinion from another shop.

  • I have a 2008 Corolla Fielder Box. The odometer and speedometer stopped working. I checked and the results were P0500. I don’t know what the sensor looks like or where it is located in the transmission. If you please, can you send me pictures to clarify the location of the sensor and its shape?

    • On your 2008 Toyota Corolla Fielder Box, the P0500 code means the ECM isn’t getting a signal from the Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS). Since your speedometer and odometer also stopped working, that confirms the sensor signal isn’t reaching the cluster.

      Where It’s Located

      • The speed sensor is mounted on the transmission, usually on the differential housing/output shaft area.
      • On the Corolla Fielder, it’s near the driver-side axle where the driveshaft goes into the transaxle.
      • You’ll see a small sensor with a 2- or 3-wire electrical connector, held in with a single 10mm bolt.

      What It Looks Like

      • It’s a short, cylindrical sensor (plastic body, sometimes with a metal base).
      • The tip that goes into the transmission is magnetic and reads gear rotation.
      • Typical Toyota part number for your model is 83181-12060, though confirm by VIN before ordering.

      How to Check/Fix

      1. Locate it visually on the side of the transmission — follow the wiring harness near the axle.
      2. Inspect the connector and wiring for corrosion, oil, or damage. Many P0500 codes are wiring-related.
      3. If the wiring looks good, remove the sensor (be prepared for a little fluid to leak) and replace it with a new OEM unit.
      4. Clear the code with a scan tool, then test drive.

      I can’t attach photos here, but if you search “2008 Toyota Corolla Fielder speed sensor location” or the part number above, you’ll see pictures that match exactly what’s on your transmission.

      Would you like me to also write out the step-by-step removal and replacement procedure so you can follow it directly?