Q: Speedometer not working

asked by on November 11, 2016

I have two codes popping up from the engine light. P0720 and P1529. Is this a serious problem or is it just the speedometer? I think I just need a speed sensor replacement but I would like to make sure. I stopped driving it in fear of more damage. When I try to accelerate, it gave me a thud after slowing down and it doesn't make a sound when I stop at a stop light. It takes a long time to move and speed up.

My car has 206000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

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

Car won't start
Hi there. A loose connection at the battery can cause starting problems. The power and ground sides of any circuit need to have good connections for their components to work properly. A fully charged battery and a no start situation...
Car door stuck closed
The door handle on most vehicles is connected to a mechanism inside the door that does the latching and unlatching. The mechanical connection between these two parts may have failed and should be inspected by a technician. Consider having an...
I want to know if it's ok to drive to Canada from Massachusetts with bad converter
If you have a lack of power, it is not a good idea to put highway mileage (high RPMs) on your vehicle. It can clog your fuel injectors and damage your engine. There are two types of catalytic converter damage....
I had a catalytic converter installed in my vehicle in 2013, now I'm being told I need a new one. How long is it suppose to last?
Hello. Most vehicles do not have to have the catalytic converter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-long-does-a-catalytic-converter-last) replaced unless it becomes damaged due to road debris or it overheating severely. With that said, it is possible your car may be running a bit too rich...
Reduce power light is on
What problem codes are set? Most often, these symptoms are the result of a failed throttle position sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/throttle-position-sensor-replacement). Traditionally, cars will have a throttle cable but your Saturn has a "fly by wire" throttle system. If the engine management...
The driver side reverse light won't work, only the passenger side light works. I've changed all the bulbs and I still can't get it to come on.
I would suspect that that there is a problem with the socket for the light bulb (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/reverse-light-bulb-replacement). Corrosion will build up in the bulb socket and not allow power, or ground, to get to the bulb. If the bulb is...
I have a cracked rim that needs to be replaced. What else might need to be looked at?
Hi there: Anytime the front wheels strike a curb, the tires and wheels absorb most of the impact. However, it's also possible for tie rods, lower control arms or CV joints to be damaged as well during this type of...
Car accelerates and then completely stop accelerating at 25 or 40 mph.
Hi Joel. What you are describing is typically an indication that your Jetta has entered what's called a "limp mode". This happens when the ECU detects a problem with the transmission. It activates a fail safe mode to restrict the...
Do you think with what I have described that that is the problem
Hi Future. Thanks for the follow-up question. Based on the symptoms you're describing, I would assume you have multiple issues beyond the crankshaft position sensor. The thing about engine codes is that they are simply recording facts on systems that...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re an Athletic Coach
If If you are an athletic coach, you need a used vehicle with tons of room to transport gear. Once in awhile, you may have to take a player or two along with you as well. What this means is...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re Over Six Feet Tall
While While shorter than average drivers can have a tough time finding the right car, it’s equally hard for taller drivers, perhaps more so. If you’re feeling squished, or have to hunch over the wheel to drive, then you’re not...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're an Uber or Lyft Driver
Are Are you thinking of becoming a driver for Uber or Lyft? That could be an exciting career change – you’ll get to meet a lot of interesting people, and if you love to drive, what better way to spend...