DTC P0500: VSS Circuit Malfunction

NOTE: Before you troubleshoot, record all freeze data and review the general troubleshooting information (see GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION ).

Test-drive the vehicle.
Check the VSS with the HDS.
Is the correct speed indicated?
1. YES - Intermittent failure, system is OK at this time. Check for poor connections or loose wires at the VSS and the ECM.
2. NO - Go to step 3.
Turn the ignition switch OFF.
Block the rear wheels, and set the parking brake.
Raise the front of the vehicle, and make sure it is securely supported.
Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
Block the right front wheel, and slowly rotate the left front wheel.
Measure voltage between ECM connector terminals C5 and B20.

Fig 1: Measuring Voltage Between ECM Connector Terminals C5 And B20
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

Does the voltage change between 0 V and 5 V?
1. YES - Update the ECM if it does not have the latest software, or substitute a known-good ECM; 2000-2001 M/T models (see HOW TO SUBSTITUTE THE ECM FOR TESTING PURPOSES (2000-2001 M/T MODELS) ), 2002-2006 M/T models and CVT model (see ECM UPDATING AND SUBSTITUTION FOR TESTING-2002-2006 M/T MODELS AND CVT MODEL ), then recheck. If the symptom/indication goes away with a known-good ECM, replace the original ECM (see ECM REPLACEMENT ).
2. NO - Go to step 9.
Turn the ignition switch OFF, and wait for 10 seconds.
Disconnect ECM connector C (31P).
Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
Block the right front wheel, and slowly rotate the left front wheel.
Measure voltage between ECM connector terminals C5 and B20.

Fig 2: Measuring Voltage Between ECM Connector Terminals C5 And B20
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

Does the voltage change between 0 V and 5 V?
1. YES - Update the ECM if it does not have the latest software, or substitute a known-good ECM; 2000-2001 M/T models (see HOW TO SUBSTITUTE THE ECM FOR TESTING PURPOSES (2000-2001 M/T MODELS) ), 2002-2006 M/T models and CVT model (see ECM UPDATING AND SUBSTITUTION FOR TESTING-2002-2006 M/T MODELS AND CVT MODEL ), then recheck. If the symptom/indication goes away with a known-good ECM, replace the original ECM (see ECM REPLACEMENT ).
2. NO - Check these items:
  - A short or an open in the wire between the ECM (C5), the TCM (CVT model) and the VSS.
  - If the wire is OK, test the VSS (see GAUGE ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENT ).
  - Substitute a known-good TCM and recheck (see HOW TO TROUBLESHOOT CIRCUIT AT THE TCM ). If the symptom/indication goes away, replace the original TCM (CVT model).