Are you trying to find the transmission speed sensor location in your vehicle in order to replace it?
A vehicle’s transmission speed sensors monitor your vehicle’s speed constantly. It also allows adjustment of the functioning parameters of the engine by its onboard computer for maximum operation.
If your vehicle fails to shift out of the park or neutral or even locked in a single gear, it is clear that your vehicle’s transmission speed sensor has malfunctioned and needs a replacement.
However, before replacing the transmission speed sensor, you have to first know the transmission speed sensor location.
This guide will help you know your vehicle’s transmission speed sensor location. You’ll also find techniques for testing your speed sensors, the process involved in replacing a transmission speed sensor, the replacement cost of a speed sensor, and lots more.
Let’s get started
Transmission Speed Sensor Location
The Transmission speed sensor is located near the transmission output shaft. The Transmission speed sensor’s location allows it to detect and send a signal to the engine computer through attached cables regarding the rotation and speed of the shaft.
The transmission speed sensors see into the constant monitoring of your vehicle speed. In addition, it allows adjustment of the functioning parameters of the engine by its onboard computer for better operation.
The transmission speed sensor detects the transmission’s shifting system and the torque. In the absence of the transmission speed sensor, the torque converter ceases to function correctly, and the gears are not shifted in the correct order.
Also Read: Transmission Mount (Functions, Symptoms & Replacement)
Bad Transmission Speed Sensor Symptoms?
Listed below are the most common signs indicating a malfunctioned transmission speed sensor.
- Inconsistent readings on the speedometer
- The check engine light illuminates
- A malfunctioning cruise control system
- Hard shifting of the transmission
How to Test Your Transmission Speed Sensors
Here are the steps to test a transmission speed sensor
- With an OBD2 scanner, inspect any error codes associated with your transmission speed sensor.
- If you see any error codes, you have your problem, and replacing the part will fix it.
- If you don’t find any error codes, or even if you are driving an older car, the sensor has to be tested physically.
- Try lifting the vehicle from the front side to get a better assessment.
- Locate the transmission speed sensors at the front and back sides of the transmission housing.
- Underneath the speed sensor, Place an oil pan or bucket; you will see a little oil drain.
- Disconnect any attachment cabling from the transmission housing as seen in your vehicle’s repair manual.
- The sensor’s wire link should be disconnected.
- Turn on the ignition key, but not the engine, well-positioned(each of the keys click past the Accessory).
- Connect the probes of a multimeter or voltmeter to the reference cables inside the connector.
- If you do not receive any voltage, your sensor is defective.
- However, if the car is receiving voltage, you must call a qualified technician to diagnose the problem.
Also Read: How Long Does Transmission Last?
How to Replace a Transmission Speed Sensor
Here is a step by step guide on how to replace a faulty transmission speed sensor
- Now you know the sensor is faulty, take off the cable that connects the vehicle wiring and the sensor.
- Remove the bad sensor by making use of the proper socket.
- Connect the brand new speed sensor to the vehicle’s wire coupling.
- Get the new transmission sensor installed.
- Lower your vehicle.
- Turn on the engine.
- Conduct a test.-drive.
- Check your car to ensure correct transmission shifting.
- Also, ensure the cruise control functions effectively.
- Holdup to confirm that the engine light goes off.
- If you have properly worked on everything, you are set.
Check out this video for more tips on how to replace a transmission speed sensor
Transmission Speed Sensor Replacement Cost
The cost of replacing a transmission speed sensor if you visit a repair shop or dealership will be between $100 – $250, or even more if you need to replace just one sensor.
However, If possible, you should replace it yourself to save money.
The cost of a transmission speed sensor varies based on the vehicle model and year. A DIY replacement cost is the price of a sensor, which can cost between $20 to $100. Most vehicles have their speed sensor replaced for $25 – $45.
Is It Safe to Drive With a Failing Speed Sensor?
Even though it has been tested that you can drive without an operating transmission speed sensor, it is not recommended.
A bad transmission Speed Sensor can negatively influence numerous aspects of the vehicle operating system, so replacement is necessary and must be done as quickly as possible.
Any observation of the signs earlier mentioned, see to the issue (if you can handle it yourself), or consult a mechanic immediately. This way, your safety is assured, and costly transmission and engines that could get damaged are prevented.
Not taking precautions or failing to see to the replacement of a bad transmission speed sensor will affect the operating systems since they will lack the information needed to function properly.
You won’t be looking at spending a lot of money to get them repaired alone, but fixing them tends to be extremely difficult and will likely put your car out of commission for a very long time.
Frequently Asked Questions – Transmission Speed Sensor Location
What Happens When Your Transmission Speed Sensor Goes Out?
When the engine does not receive any voltage, shifting transmission gears becomes a problem because the power control module cannot control them. As such, the transmission won’t perform well and ends up shifting too quickly than expected.
What Is the Difference Between a Vehicle Speed Sensor and a Transmission Speed Sensor?
A VSS is also known as the transmission sensor. In addition, it can be referred to as an output shaft speed sensor. It is usually small- positioned someplace on the transmission- determining your vehicle speed by measuring the rotation of a small toothed wheel mounted on a shaft right inside the transmission.
Is It Hard to Replace a Speed Sensor?
It is very simple to replace a Transmission Vehicle speed sensor mounted externally, clipped by small bolts, or threaded in the transmission house.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Transmission Sensor?
Cost for replacing a transmission speed sensor Labor costs range from $130 to $170, while parts will cost from $50 to $150, excluding both taxes and fees. However, it is not related to your vehicle’s specific location.
Can a Bad Speed Sensor Cause Limp Mode?
Yes, a bad speed sensor causes limp mode. A bad speed sensor brings about traction stability and control loss. With time, this will cause the ABS to wreck the functional ability of the traction stability and control systems resulting in limp mode.