P0501: Vehicle Speed Sensor "A" Range/Performance
P0501 means Vehicle Speed Sensor "A" Range/Performance. The vehicle speed sensor (VSS) signal is used for the speedometer, transmission shifting, cruise control and more. The signal is inside its electrical limits, but it does not make sense compared with what the module expects from other sensors or from engine conditions (a "range/performance" fault). The part is often working electrically but reporting a wrong or implausible value.
Can I keep driving? Drivable with care. Diagnose soon: performance, economy or other components can be affected.
Common symptoms
- Speedometer erratic or not working
- Harsh or incorrect automatic shifts
- Cruise control not working
- ABS or traction control light on (if speed comes from wheel sensors)
Possible causes
- Failed vehicle speed sensor
- Damaged wiring or connector
- Damaged tone ring or drive gear
- ABS wheel speed sensor fault (on vehicles that use it for vehicle speed)
How to diagnose P0501
- Check whether the speedometer works.
- Check for ABS wheel speed codes.
- Inspect the sensor and connector.
- Check the sensor signal while the wheels turn.
What the code means, digit by digit
Generic codes have the same definition on every OBD-II vehicle (petrol cars from model year 1996 in the US, 2001 in the EU; diesels later). Manufacturers can add their own enhanced codes; those are not listed here.
Related codes
General guidance only. Fault codes describe what the engine computer saw, not which part failed: confirm with testing before replacing parts, and follow the vehicle's service information.