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2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD
3.9L DOHC V8 (252 hp)•FWD•AUTOMATIC•gas
2 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
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Repairs0Labor974Torque985Fluid14DTC1870Battery2Maintenance0Recalls2
P1500moderate severityPowertrain

Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent

on 2002 Ford Thunderbird 3.9L DOHC V8 (252 hp) · FWD

What this code means

The vehicle speed sensor signal is intermittent. The PCM is detecting dropout or erratic signals from the VSS.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light
  • Erratic speedometer
  • Transmission shifting problems
  • Cruise control inoperative
  • ABS light may illuminate

Common causes

  • Faulty vehicle speed sensor
  • Damaged VSS wiring
  • Loose VSS connector
  • Corroded connector pins
  • Faulty tone ring

Diagnostic steps

  1. Monitor VSS signal on scan tool during test drive
  2. Inspect VSS connector and wiring
  3. Wiggle test wiring while monitoring
  4. Test VSS output signal
  5. Inspect tone ring for damage

Repair notes

Replace VSS if signal is erratic. Repair wiring or connector.

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