P0500: Vehicle speed sensor malfunction
Drive carefully. Get it checked within a week or two.
Can I drive with P0500?
Yes, but drive carefully and get it checked soon. Speedometer may stop working or read erratically, and automatic transmission may shift poorly.
What does P0500 mean?
P0500 stands for Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Malfunction.
Symptoms you may notice
- Speedometer needle is erratic or rests at zero while moving
- Cruise control fails to engage or disengages unexpectedly
- Harsh shifting from the automatic transmission
How much does it cost to fix?
Repair costs for code P0500 depend on the specific underlying root cause, ranging from simple DIY checks to component replacement. The table below lists the most common causes and rough price ranges in USD:
- Defective Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)
- Damaged transmission speed sensor wiring
- Corroded sensor connector plug
- Faulty ABS control module wheel speed feed
What to do next
- Check whether your dashboard speedometer is functioning properly.
- Inspect the speed sensor plug on the transmission output shaft.
- Replace the vehicle speed sensor.
Last updated: October 2026
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General guidance only, not a professional diagnosis. If the check-engine light is flashing, or the car is running rough, overheating or losing power, stop driving and get help.
About this code
Code P0500 triggers when the powertrain control module stops receiving pulses from the vehicle speed sensor. Along with an inoperative speedometer, cruise control will disengage and automatic transmissions may shift abruptly or stay in limp gear. Drive cautiously to avoid shifting shocks.