P1540moderate severityPowertrain
Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction 2
on 1996 Subaru Legacy 2.2L H4 · AWD
What this code means
The PCM has detected a malfunction in the secondary vehicle speed sensor or its circuit. Subaru uses multiple speed inputs for comparison and verification.
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light
- Speedometer may be erratic
- Cruise control may not work
- Transmission shift points may be incorrect
Common causes
- Faulty vehicle speed sensor 2
- Wiring issue in VSS 2 circuit
- Damaged VSS connector
- Tone ring damage or debris
- Instrument cluster speed signal fault
Diagnostic steps
- Monitor VSS 2 signal on scan tool during driving
- Compare VSS 1 and VSS 2 readings
- Inspect VSS 2 connector and wiring
- Check for debris on VSS tone ring
- Test VSS 2 output signal
Repair notes
Replace the vehicle speed sensor 2 if it is not providing a correct signal.
Other Powertrain codes on this vehicle
P0001
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
P0002
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
P0003
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
P0004
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
P0010
Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
P0011
Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
P0012
Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
P0013
Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
P0014
Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
P0015
Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1