AutoCodesCadillac – P2160 Cadillac

P2160 Cadillac Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) provides vehicle speed information to the Engine Control Module (ECM). Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), 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
P2160 Cadillac indicates Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), 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 1,316
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 08, 2022
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Code P2160 Cadillac Description

The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) provides vehicle speed information to the Engine Control Module (ECM). The VSS is a permanent magnet generator. The sensor is mounted in the transfer case facing the rear internal gear which is splined to the output shaft assembly. As the output shaft and internal gear rotate, the toothed rotor of the internal gear produces AC voltage as the rotor teeth pass through the magnetic field of the sensor. The AC voltage level and the number of pulses increase as the speed of the vehicle increases. The ECM converts the voltage to vehicle speed. The ECM uses the output shaft speed signal to determine shift timing, as well as transfer case range. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when there is no speed signal from the transfer case speed sensor.
OBDII Code P2160 Cadillac - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P2160 Cadillac Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2160 Cadillac?

  • Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)
  • Vehicle Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Vehicle Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P2160 Cadillac?

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 P2160 Cadillac 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 P2160 Cadillac code?

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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 P2160 Cadillac Code

What does the OBDII code P2160 mean for a Cadillac?

1. P2160 indicates that the vehicle's speed sensor 2 circuit is experiencing low voltage, which may affect speed readings and transmission performance. 2.

What are the common symptoms of the P2160 code?

Symptoms include erratic or inaccurate speedometer readings, transmission shifting issues, reduced engine performance, and possibly an illuminated check engine light. 3.

What causes the P2160 code to appear on a Cadillac?

Common causes include a faulty vehicle speed sensor, damaged or corroded wiring, a loose electrical connection, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM). 4.

How do I diagnose the P2160 code?

Start by scanning for codes, inspecting the speed sensor and its wiring for damage, checking for corrosion at connections, and testing voltage and continuity in the circuit. 5.

Can I drive my Cadillac with the P2160 code active?

Driving with this code is possible but not recommended, as it may lead to transmission issues, erratic speed readings, and potential safety hazards. 6.

How is the P2160 code repaired?

Repairs may involve replacing the faulty speed sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connections, or, in rare cases, reprogramming or replacing the PCM. 7.

How much does it cost to fix the P2160 code on a Cadillac?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $100 to $300, depending on whether the speed sensor needs replacement or wiring repairs are required. 8.

Can a dirty or damaged wheel speed sensor cause the P2160 code?

Yes, if the wheel speed sensor (commonly used for ABS) is linked to the vehicle speed sensor system, dirt or damage could trigger the code. 9.

Will resetting the check engine light fix the P2160 code?

Resetting the light may temporarily clear the code, but the issue will persist unless the underlying problem is addressed. 10.

How can I prevent the P2160 code from reoccurring?

Regularly inspect and maintain your vehicle’s speed sensors, wiring, and connections to prevent issues that could lead to this code.

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