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How does a speedometer work on a VW?

How does a speedometer work on a VW?

A speedometer is a valuable instrument that shows the driver real time readings of the speeds of their Volkswagen. While most modern VW’s use speed sensors to determine speed, some older vehicles used gears and wires for the speed reading.

What does it mean when your speedometer is not working?

If the oil pressure, coolant, charge, or gas gauge doesn’t work or works erratically, the problem is in the gauge, wiring, or sender. Speedometers are unique in that some of them use physical cables instead of sensors, so a speedometer not working can also indicate a broken cable or stripped gear.

What does it mean when gauges in your car stop working?

But when the gauges in your car stop working, it’s not a situation you can safely ignore. When one gauge stops working, the problem may be in the gauge itself or a bad sensor, while all the gauges cutting out at the same time often indicates a blown fuse or a defective instrument cluster.

Why is the speed sensor on my car not working?

In less common circumstances, the electronic control unit (ECU) could also be malfunctioning. If you take your car to a qualified technician, they will be able to connect to the ECU to read trouble codes and other data. Using specialized testing equipment, they will also be able to actually test the speed sensor itself.

A speedometer is a valuable instrument that shows the driver real time readings of the speeds of their Volkswagen. While most modern VW’s use speed sensors to determine speed, some older vehicles used gears and wires for the speed reading.

What to do if your speedometer is not working?

If your Volkswagen Jetta’s speedometer is not working, the first place to go would be to check the service engine soon light (if applicable). Now, take it out and see if the cruise control still works. If it does, that’s a pretty good indication that the vehicle speed sensor is just fine. If it doesn’t, it’s time to take a look at it.

How does the VSS work on a VW Jetta?

The VSS is one part of a system of sensors that helps keep you safe (traction control, ABS, cruise control). A modern vehicle’s speedometer takes the input from the Vehicle Speed Sensor and sends that data to the ECU. The ECU is programmed with your Jetta’s gear ratios and stock tire height.

What can a faulty speed sensor do to a car?

VSS – A faulty speed sensor will often be accompanied by the P0500 (VSS circuit malfunction) trouble code. The speed sensor does more than just control the speedometer, it also helps to control the cruise control system and may even affect the way that the engine runs.

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Ruth Doyle