What is the Speedometer Sensor all about?
As its name implies, the speedometer displays your vehicle's real-time speed. Most speedometers are electronic. An electronic speedometer measures vehicle speed with the help of a speedometer sensor. This sensor, usually located at the transmission, detects the drive shaft's rotational speed. The sensor delivers a corresponding series of pulses to a computer, which then turns these pulses into the numerical figure the speedometer indicates. So when the speedometer sensor becomes faulty, the speedometer becomes unreliable.
Keep in mind:
Your replacement speedometer sensor needs to be specific to your make and model, or else it might be inaccurate. A VIN is required to ensure the correct match.
How it's done:
- Check the operation of speedometer.
- Scan the computer system in the car for codes.
- Test the vehicle speed sensor.
- Replace the vehicle speed sensor if faulty.
- Recheck the operation of speedometer.
There’s no need to be proactive with your speedometer sensor, as your car will quickly let you know when it fails. When the speedometer sensor malfunctions, the Check Engine warning light should come on, and your vehicle's cruise control will stop working. The speedometer may also stop working, or it may become noticeably inaccurate.
What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Speedometer Sensor?
- Check Engine light is on.
- Speedometer does not work.
- Cruise control is not working.
How important is this service?
A speedometer sensor measures the rate at which the vehicle’s driveshaft is rotating; this data is sent to the vehicle’s computer, where it is converted into a number and displayed on the speedometer. When the speedometer sensor fails, there is no line of communication to your speedometer, and you won’t be able to view how fast you’re driving.