Q: My speedometer does not work

asked by on July 14, 2016

New and abs modual , new sensor, still won't work.

My car has 10000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Speedometer is not working Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

The speedometer is controlled by the PCM (Powertrain Control Module). The PCM receives data from the ABS module then sends it to the instrument cluster. In all, there are three modules, and a VSS (Vehicle Speed Sensor) involved with the operation of the speedometer. This sort of design requires a professional level scanner to access all the modules in order to pinpoint the failure.

The data from each module needs to be observed to give us a clue to what is going on here. In addition, there is usually a code associated with systems that utilizes modules in this fashion. This code will give us a diagnostic path to begin with. It may not be the correct path, but often times a process of elimination needs to be employed to diagnose a vehicle.

The possible problems are:

  • Wiring harness issues between the modules and or the VSS.
  • PCM
  • Instrument Cluster. If the speedometer gauge itself is faulty, the instrument cluster as a whole will need to be removed and repaired. The instrument cluster should have a test procedure that can be initiated with a shop level scanner.

I would have included the ABS module and the VSS, but it appears you have already replaced those. It is possible that the parts you replaced are faulty, particularly if they are used. For this reason I highly recommend good quality parts.

If this is to daunting, as it will be for most, try booking an appointment with one of our certified technicians for a speedometer inspection.

Good Luck!

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do you silence the horn beep feature when using the remote?
Your car is set by default to honk the horn when you lock your doors with the remote. However, you can change this if you prefer. Here’s what you need to do: Press both the lock and unlock buttons on...
How do I adjust the power side view mirrors?
Side view mirrors are important safety features that increase your visibility when you’re driving. Before operating your vehicle, you should always adjust the side view mirrors so that you have maximum visibility. Adjusting your side view mirrors is easy: 1....
Gear shifter stuck.
I have seen this before. Dodge has a safety device that keeps the shifter from being moved into lets say "Drive" if the brakes are not applied. If this electronic lock fails, the shifter will not be released and will...
Muffler clogged
A muffler can become clogged from catalyst material breaking loose and working it's way down the exhaust or an internal failure. Some mufflers and resonators are filled with fiberglass that absorbs some of the noise in the exhaust system. If...
SUV won't accelerate properly after 2 hours of driving
The CVT transmission on the vehicle may go into what is called 'transmission safe mode' if it is overheating. The safe mode will cause low engine power, and limited shifting of the CVT system. This could be caused by incorrect...
Accidentally forgot to turn engine on before switching gears and reversing car
Your car is designed to react exactly the way it did as a result of the safety features built into it. You should not have any issues related to steering as a result of this. I would recommend starting your...
I have a broken axle seal not the boot, but the seal on the transmission
Hi there. The issue you're describing is a common problem with many of Toyota's Prius Hybrids. In fact, several 2010 - 2013 models have factory recalls on some transmission seals. When the seal is leaking fluid, it can cause a...
Why would I keep getting air and fluid bleeding through the clutch system in my 2008 Infiniti G35
Hello. You more than likely have a bad clutch master cylinder. These will often have a seal failure on the back side of the cylinder which will either leak or suck in air. Both of these will cause this to...
Catalyct converter is clogged, we put cleaner in gas tank as told after driving it about 2 hours it just stopped. Won't go anywher
There are no fuel system cleaners or additives that will unclog, or restore, a catalytic converter. Although a scan tool can reveal some data about converter operating conditions there are other tests that must be performed to determine if the...

Related articles

How Long Does a Speed Control Assembly Last?
Using Using the gas pedal allows you to speed up and control the car on the road, but it can be a chore when driving long distances on relatively flat roads with little to no other traffic. It can lead...
Dodge Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Car Program
Drivers Drivers who are shopping around for a used Dodge vehicle may want to consider cars under the Dodge certified pre-owned program. Many manufacturers have a certified pre-owned (CPO) program, and each one is set up differently. Read on to...
How to Replace the Speedometer Sensor on Most Cars
The speedometer has a sensor that fails if the speedometer or cruise control do not work, the Check Engine Light comes on, or the vehicle loses power.