How to Replace Speed Sensors for the Speedometer

The speed sensor is a small signal generator with a gear attached to it. A speed sensor not only operates the speedometer in place of the traditional cable, it also supplies a signal the computer uses for shifting the transmission. If the odometer does not work but the speedometer does, it is not a fault of the speed sensor. That requires a new speedometer head. If the speed sensor is bad, neither the speedometer nor odometer will function.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• ¼-inch socket set
• Ratchet
• Long extension
• Screwdriver
• Jack
• Jack stands

For a Rear-Wheel Drive Vehicle

1. Locate the speed sensor on the transmission. The sensor will be on the driver's side rear of the transmission.

2. Jack the driver's side of the vehicle up and support with a jack stand. Unplug the electrical connector on the sensor. Use the 10mm socket to remove the retaining bolt on the side of the sensor holding it in. Pull the sensor out and replace with the new sensor.

3. Install the 10mm bolt in the sensor and tighten it down. Plug the new sensor in.

For a Front-Wheel Drive Vehicle

4. Locate the speed sensor on top of the transaxle behind the engine. On a front-wheel drive vehicle, the transmission has the transaxle attached to the side of it and is always located near the back of the engine.

5. Remove the air cleaner and the connecting hose and move them out of the way. Remove the electrical connector on top of the sensor.

6. Use the 10mm socket to remove the bolt holding the speed sensor on the transmission. Rotate the sensor in both directions as you lift up on it. Install the new sensor by rotating in both directions to engage the splines. Install the 10mm bolt holding the sensor in place.

7. Reinstall the air cleaner and hose. Plug in the electrical connector to the sensor.

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