GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor

DTC P0502: Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) Circuit Low Voltage

Circuit/System Description

The vehicle speed information is provided to the engine control module (ECM) by the vehicle speed sensor (VSS). The VSS is a permanent magnet generator that is mounted to the transmission and produces a pulsing voltage. The AC voltage amplitude and frequency increases with vehicle speed. The ECM converts the pulsing voltage into km/h (mph). The ECM supplies the VSS signal to the following components:

    • The instrument panel for speedometer and odometer operation
    • The cruise control module

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • DTCs P0117, P0118, P0119, P0128, P0335, P0336, P0338 or P0501 are not set.
    • The decel fuel cut-off (DFCO) is active.
    • The engine coolant temperature is more than 40°C (104°F).
    • The engine speed is 1,800-3,520 RPM.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The vehicle speed is 5 km/h (3 mph) or less for 3 seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • P0502 is a Type B DTC.
    • Cruise control is disabled.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

P0502 is a Type B DTC.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Manual Transmission Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Transmission System Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

DTC Type Reference

Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References

Special Tools

J 35616 GM-Approved Terminal Test Kit

Circuit/System Verification

  1. Raise and support the drive wheels.
  2. Start and idle the engine.
  3. Place the transmission in second gear and release the clutch pedal.
  4. Monitor VSS parameter on the scan tool. The VSS parameter should increase as the drive wheel speed increases.
  5. Operate the vehicle within the conditions for running the DTC. You may also operate the vehicle within the conditions that are captured in the Freeze Frame/Failure Records List.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Disconnect the ECM harness connector X2.
  2. Measure for 1,300-1,500 ohms at 25°C (77°F) between the VSS high signal circuit terminal 53 and the VSS low signal circuit terminal 40.
  3. If the value is greater than 1,500 ohms test the VSS high signal circuit and the VSS low signal circuit for an open/high resistance. If the circuits/connections test normal, replace the vehicle speed sensor.
    If the value is less than 1,300 ohms test the VSS high signal and the VSS low signal circuits for a shorted together condition. If the circuits/connections test normal, replace the vehicle speed sensor.
  4. Measure for more than 10 ohms of resistance between the VSS high signal circuit terminal 53 and ground.
  5. If the value is less than the specified range, repair the short to ground.
  6. Measure for more than 10 ohms of resistance between the VSS low signal circuit terminal 40 and ground.
  7. If the value is less than the specified range, repair the short to ground.
  8. Reconnect the ECM connector. Disconnect the VSS connector.
  9. Ignition OFF, test for less than 5 ohms between the low reference circuit at the VSS harness connector terminal A and ground.
  10. If greater than the specified value, test the low reference circuit for an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.
  11. Ignition ON, test for less than 6 V between the signal circuit at the VSS harness connector terminal B and ground.
  12. If greater than the specified value, test the signal circuit for a short to voltage. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the repair.

    •  Vehicle Speed Sensor Replacement
    •  Control Module References for ECM replacement, setup and programming.