Engine-CodesFord – P1502 Ford

P1502 Ford Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent

Quick Answer

The P1502 Ford code indicates a problem with the vehicle speed sensor being intermittent. Common causes include Faulty vehicle speed sensor, Dirty or damaged vehicle speed sensor, Frayed or damaged wiring connecting the sensor to the computer. 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
P1502 Ford indicates Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty vehicle speed sensor, Dirty or damaged vehicle speed sensor, Frayed or damaged wiring connecting the sensor to the computer.
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 Sep 07, 2024
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Code P1502 Ford Description

The P1502 Ford code indicates a problem with the vehicle speed sensor being intermittent. The vehicle speed sensor, also known as the VSS, plays a crucial role in providing the vehicle's onboard computer with accurate speed information. This data is essential for various systems in the vehicle, such as the transmission, cruise control, and ABS (anti-lock braking system).

OBDII Code P1502 Ford - Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent
P1502 Ford Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent

Common Causes of P1502 Ford

  1. Faulty vehicle speed sensor
  2. Dirty or damaged vehicle speed sensor
  3. Frayed or damaged wiring connecting the sensor to the computer
  4. Corrosion on sensor connections
  5. Issues with the vehicle's computer system

Symptoms of P1502 Ford

  1. Erratic shifting of the transmission
  2. Inaccurate speedometer readings
  3. Problems with cruise control engagement
  4. Vehicle going into limp mode
  5. ABS system malfunctions

How to Fix P1502 Ford

  1. Perform a diagnostic scan to confirm the P1502 Ford code and pinpoint the exact cause of the issue.
  2. Inspect the vehicle speed sensor for any signs of damage or dirt. Clean or replace the sensor as needed.
  3. Check the wiring connecting the sensor to the computer for any frays or damage. Repair or replace the wiring if necessary.
  4. Clear the fault code from the vehicle's computer and test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved.
  5. If the problem persists, further diagnostic testing may be required to identify any other underlying issues.

Cost to Fix P1502 Ford

The typical repair costs for addressing a P1502 Ford code related to the vehicle speed sensor intermittent issue can range from $100 to $300. This estimate includes the cost of parts such as a new speed sensor or wiring, as well as labor costs for diagnosis and repair. However, it is essential to note that specific repair costs can vary based on factors such as the location of the repair shop, the make and model of the vehicle, and the type of engine. Additionally, labor rates at auto repair shops can range from $80 to $150 per hour, with rates potentially higher in metropolitan areas or at dealerships, and lower at independent shops. It is advisable to obtain quotes from local repair shops to get a more accurate estimate for addressing this issue.

Tech Notes for P1502 Ford

There is a factory service bulletin for the following Ford models:
1998-2002 Ford Crown Victoria
1998-2002 Ford Mustang
1998-2002 Ford Taurus
1998-1999 F-250 LD
1998-2001 Ford Explorer
1998-2002 Ford E SERIES
1998-2002 Ford Expedition
1998-2002 Ford F-150
1998-2002 Ford Ranger
1998-2002 Ford Windstar
1999-2002 Ford Super Duty F Series
2000-2002 Ford Excursion
2000-2002 Ford Explorer Sport
2001-2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
Ford Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P1502

When is the Code Detected?

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detected an intermittent condition on the vehicle speed sensor circuit

Need more information about the P1502 Ford code?

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Information for Specific Ford 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 P1502 Ford Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P1502 (Ford) related to the Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent issue?

Possible symptoms include erratic speedometer readings, intermittent loss of speedometer function, and issues with cruise control engagement.

2. What are the typical causes of the Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent problem indicated by OBDII code P1502 on a Ford vehicle?

The issue is often caused by a faulty vehicle speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors related to the sensor, or a malfunctioning instrument cluster.

3. How can I diagnose the Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent issue triggering OBDII code P1502 on my Ford vehicle?

Diagnosis typically involves checking the vehicle speed sensor for proper operation, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the instrument cluster for any faults.

4. Can a Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent problem cause any other issues besides triggering the OBDII code P1502 on a Ford vehicle?

Yes, in addition to the OBDII code being triggered, a faulty vehicle speed sensor can lead to inaccurate speedometer readings, cruise control malfunctions, and potential issues with the transmission shifting properly.

5. Are there any DIY repair tips for addressing the Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent issue associated with OBDII code P1502 on a Ford vehicle?

If you have the necessary tools and experience, you may be able to replace the vehicle speed sensor yourself. However, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for a proper diagnosis and repair.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair the Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent problem causing OBDII code P1502 on a Ford vehicle?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from around $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

7. Is it safe to continue driving with the Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent issue triggering OBDII code P1502 on a Ford vehicle?

It is not recommended to continue driving with this issue unresolved, as it can lead to inaccurate speed readings and potential safety hazards. It's best to address the problem promptly.

8. Can a Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent problem be intermittent in nature, causing the OBDII code P1502 on a Ford vehicle to come and go?

Yes, the issue can be intermittent, leading to the OBDII code P1502 appearing sporadically based on when the faulty sensor or wiring malfunctions.

9. How long does it typically take to repair the Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent issue indicated by OBDII code P1502 on a Ford vehicle?

The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the problem and the expertise of the mechanic, but it may take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours to address the issue.

10. Can a Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent issue causing OBDII code P1502 on a Ford vehicle affect fuel efficiency?

While the direct impact on fuel efficiency may be minimal, addressing the issue promptly is still recommended to ensure the overall proper functioning of the vehicle's systems.

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