P0500 — Vehicle Speed Sensor Power/Ground Circuit Malfunction
Drive with caution — fix soon.
What P0500 means
This code means the engine computer detected a problem with the vehicle speed sensor signal, which tells the car how fast it's going. It usually points to a faulty speed sensor, damaged wiring, or a poor connection, and sometimes a bad sensor signal from a wheel or transmission. It's a common, generally affordable fix that often involves replacing the sensor or repairing wiring.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light is on
- Speedometer reads incorrectly or not at all
- Cruise control won't engage
- Rough or delayed transmission shifting
- Reduced engine power in some cases
Common causes
- Faulty vehicle speed sensor
- Damaged or corroded wiring or connector
- Loss of power or ground to the sensor circuit
- Faulty transmission or wheel speed sensor
- Failing instrument cluster or control module
Typical repair cost
$110 – $400
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with a P0500 code?
Usually yes, but be careful. Your speedometer may be inaccurate and cruise control likely won't work, which affects safety. Shifting can also feel off. Drive conservatively and get it checked soon rather than letting it linger.
How much does it cost to fix a P0500 code?
Most repairs run $110 to $400. Replacing the speed sensor is the most common fix and is fairly affordable, while wiring repairs or a faulty module raise the cost. Diagnosis confirms whether the sensor or the circuit is at fault.
Is a P0500 code serious?
It's moderately serious. The car runs, but losing an accurate speed signal can affect the speedometer, cruise control, and transmission shifting, which has safety implications. It's worth fixing promptly.
Why does my transmission shift roughly with a P0500 code?
The transmission uses vehicle speed to decide when to shift. When that signal is missing or wrong, shift timing gets confused, causing harsh or delayed gear changes. Fixing the speed sensor signal usually restores smooth shifting.