AutoCodes – Generic – C1571

C1571 Code - Vehicle Speed Signal Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Power Steering ECU receives vehicle speed signals from the Skid Control ECU via CAN communication. Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor, Vehicle Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Vehicle Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: C1571 indicates Vehicle Speed Signal Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor, Vehicle Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Vehicle Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 2,827

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Nov 05, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C1571 Description

The Power Steering ECU receives vehicle speed signals from the Skid Control ECU via CAN communication. The ECU provides appropriate assisting force in accordance with the vehicle speed, based on the signals. If the ECU detects this Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC), it adjusts the amount of power assistance for a speed of 100 km/h (62 mph) and continues the system control. The Power Steering ECU monitors the Vehicle Speed Signal. The Power Steering ECU sets the OBDII code when the Vehicle Speed Signal is not to factory specifications.

OBDII Code C1571 - Vehicle Speed Signal Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — C1571 Code - Vehicle Speed Signal Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1571?

Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor
Vehicle Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted
Vehicle Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Skid Control ECU
Faulty Power Steering ECU

How to Fix the DTC C1571?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the C1571 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the C1571 code?

Need more information on how to fix the C1571 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C1571 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

C1571 Lexus — Vehicle Speed Signal Malfunction
C1571 Scion — Vehicle Speed Signal Malfunction
C1571 Toyota — Vehicle Speed Signal Malfunction

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about C1571 Code

1. What does OBDII code C1571 mean?

C1571 indicates a Vehicle Speed Signal Malfunction, meaning the vehicle's control module is not receiving a proper speed signal or the signal is corrupted.

2. What are the common symptoms of code C1571?

Symptoms can include an illuminated check engine light, malfunctioning speedometer, ABS or traction control warnings, and erratic transmission shifting.

3. What causes a C1571 Vehicle Speed Signal Malfunction?

Common causes include a faulty vehicle speed sensor (VSS), damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning ABS module, or issues with the powertrain control module (PCM).

4. How is code C1571 diagnosed?

A technician will check the vehicle speed sensor, inspect wiring and connectors for damage, and use a scan tool to monitor speed signal data to locate the fault.

5. Can I drive with code C1571 active?

Driving with C1571 may be possible, but it is not recommended, as issues like erratic shifting and impaired ABS or traction control can compromise safety.

6. How do you fix the C1571 code?

Repairs may involve replacing the vehicle speed sensor, repairing damaged wiring, cleaning or reconnecting corroded connectors, or reprogramming the PCM or ABS module if needed.

7. How much does it cost to repair code C1571?

Repair costs can vary, but replacing a vehicle speed sensor typically ranges from $100 to $250, while wiring repairs or module reprogramming may cost more.

8. Can a faulty ABS module trigger code C1571?

Yes, a malfunctioning ABS module can interfere with the vehicle speed signal, leading to the C1571 code.

9. What tools are needed to fix a C1571 code?

Common tools include an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for testing wiring and sensors, and sometimes specialized diagnostic equipment for module reprogramming.

10. Will clearing the C1571 code fix the problem?

Clearing the code will erase it temporarily, but if the underlying issue is not resolved, the code will likely return.