What to check if speedometer is not working?
If your vehicle's speedometer is not functioning properly, there are several potential issues you should check to diagnose and resolve the problem. This article will guide you through the steps to identify and address a malfunctioning speedometer.
Common Causes of Speedometer Failure
There are a few common reasons why a speedometer may stop working correctly:
- Faulty speedometer cable or sensor - The cable or electronic sensor that transmits the vehicle's speed to the speedometer can become damaged or disconnected, causing the speedometer to malfunction.
- Electrical issues - Problems with the vehicle's electrical system, such as a blown fuse or wiring problems, can disrupt the speedometer's operation.
- Mechanical problems - Issues with the vehicle's transmission or drivetrain components can affect the speedometer's ability to accurately measure and display the vehicle's speed.
Identifying the root cause of the speedometer failure is the first step in resolving the issue.
Troubleshooting Steps
To diagnose and fix a malfunctioning speedometer, follow these steps:
- Check the speedometer cable or sensor - Inspect the cable for any signs of damage, such as kinks or fraying. If the cable is electronic, use a multimeter to test for proper electrical signals. Replace the cable or sensor if necessary.
- Inspect the electrical system - Check the fuse for the speedometer circuit and replace it if blown. Examine the wiring for any loose connections or signs of damage.
- Verify the transmission and drivetrain - Issues with the transmission, differential, or wheel speed sensors can affect the speedometer's accuracy. Have a mechanic inspect these components if the cable and electrical systems check out.
- Consider the speedometer unit itself - In some cases, the speedometer instrument may be faulty and require replacement.
By systematically checking these potential problem areas, you can identify the root cause of the speedometer failure and take the appropriate steps to restore its proper operation.
What electrical issue can make my speedometer stopped working?
Start by inspecting the fuses related to your instrument cluster and speedometer. A blown fuse can often be the culprit. Inspect wiring and connectors. Examine the wiring and connectors associated with the speed sensor, speedometer cable, or VSS for any visible damage.
What to do if the speedometer is not working?
Pop the hood and open the fuse box. Locate the fuse for the speedometer and remove it. Hold the fuse up to a light to see if the wire inside is broken. If it is, replace the fuse.
How to test a speedometer?
A vehicle's speed and accuracy of the speedometer can be made by measuring the time it takes to travel one mile. The best way to conduct the test is to set cruise at one speed and measure the time it takes to travel between two green mile markers on Interstate or other US/state highway.
What are the signs of a bad alternator?
How Do You Know if a Car Alternator is Bad?
- Trouble starting your car.
- Frequent stalling.
- Whining or screeching noise after the vehicle starts.
- Dim or overly bright lights.
- Smell of burning rubber or wires.
- Dead battery.
- Battery dashboard warning light is on.
Can I still drive my car if the speedometer doesn't work?
Driving with a broken speedometer makes it difficult to abide by the legal speed limit. More than hefty fines, you can seriously put lives in danger by continuing to drive your vehicle without getting this gauge repaired.
What can throw off your speedometer?
UPSIZING OR DOWNSIZING
Up-sizing, or installing a taller tire, will lead to a speedometer reading that displays slower than your actual speed. This is because a taller tire will have a larger overall circumference, causing it to need to travel more distance per revolution than the original equipment tire.
How to check if a speedometer is bad?
Top 3 Signs of a Broken Speedometer
- Speedometer Does Not Move At All. If the pointer on your speedometer does not budge during acceleration, it's plausible that the speedometer cable and housing have already failed.
- Speedometer Needle Jumps and Skips.
- Squealing Noises.
Can a bad alternator cause the speedometer not to work?
If you notice your windows taking longer than usual to roll up or down, or if your seat warmers feel “off,” or even if your speedometer and other instruments start going haywire while the vehicle is running, you may have an alternator problem.
What sensor controls the speedometer?
The vehicle speed sensor (VSS) or output transmission speed sensor determines how fast your vehicle is going by measuring the rotation of a toothed wheel on a shaft inside the transmission or at one of the wheels if the signal is coming from the ABS module to the PCM or TCM.
How do you get your speedometer checked?
To test you can do one of two things. Easiest: Get a GPS speedometer app on your smart phone. Plug in a device into the OBD-II port on your car. And look up the speed value. This value is what the ECM is getting from the Vehicle Speed Sensor. It is accurate.
