AutoCodes – Toyota – P0500 1999 Toyota Camry

P0500 1999 Toyota Camry Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction

Quick Answer

The vehicle speed sensor outputs a 4 pulse signal for every revolution of the rotor shaft, which is rotated by the transmission output shaft via the driven gear. Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor, Vehicle speed sensor harness or connectors 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: P0500 1999 Toyota Camry indicates Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor, Vehicle speed sensor harness or connectors 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 11,765

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 15, 2020

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0500 1999 Toyota Camry Description

The vehicle speed sensor outputs a 4 pulse signal for every revolution of the rotor shaft, which is rotated by the transmission output shaft via the driven gear. After this signal is converted into a more precise rectangular waveform by the waveform shaping circuit inside the combination meter, it is then transmitted to the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM determines the vehicle speed based on the frequency of these pulse signals.

OBDII Code P0500 1999 Toyota Camry - Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — P0500 1999 Toyota Camry Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0500 1999 Toyota Camry?

Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor
Vehicle speed sensor harness or connectors is open or shorted
Vehicle speed sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
Combination meter

How to Fix the DTC P0500 1999 Toyota Camry?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

The P0500 code is common on the Camry. Before replacing the sensor, you should try cleaning the sensor gear and erasing the code. If the light comes back, you may have to replace the sensor.

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What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0500 1999 Toyota Camry 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.

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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 P0500 1999 Toyota Camry Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0500 on a 1999 Toyota Camry indicate?

The code P0500 on a 1999 Toyota Camry specifically points to a Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction.

2. What are some common symptoms of a Vehicle Speed Sensor malfunction in a 1999 Toyota Camry?

Common symptoms include erratic speedometer readings, cruise control issues, harsh shifting of the transmission, and the check engine light coming on.

3. What are the possible causes of a Vehicle Speed Sensor malfunction in a 1999 Toyota Camry?

Potential causes include a faulty speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, issues with the speedometer itself, or problems with the vehicle's transmission.

4. How can I diagnose a Vehicle Speed Sensor issue in my 1999 Toyota Camry?

Diagnosing the problem usually involves checking the speed sensor's electrical connections, inspecting the sensor for physical damage, and using a multimeter to test for proper voltage and resistance.

5. Can I still drive my 1999 Toyota Camry with a P0500 code?

While the vehicle may still be operable with a P0500 code, it's important to address the issue promptly to prevent potential transmission problems and ensure accurate speed readings.

6. How can I repair a Vehicle Speed Sensor malfunction in my 1999 Toyota Camry?

Repairing the issue typically involves replacing the faulty speed sensor with a new one, ensuring all wiring connections are secure, and clearing the trouble code with an OBDII scanner.

7. Are there any tips to prevent a Vehicle Speed Sensor malfunction in a 1999 Toyota Camry?

Regular vehicle maintenance, such as checking for damaged wiring and keeping the speed sensor clean, can help prevent issues with the Vehicle Speed Sensor.

8. Can a Vehicle Speed Sensor malfunction in a 1999 Toyota Camry affect fuel efficiency?

Yes, a faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor can impact fuel efficiency by causing inaccurate speed readings, leading to inefficient transmission shifting and potential engine performance issues.

9. Will a Vehicle Speed Sensor malfunction in a 1999 Toyota Camry affect the vehicle's emissions?

Yes, a malfunctioning Vehicle Speed Sensor can impact the vehicle's emissions by causing the engine to run inefficiently or by triggering the check engine light, which may lead to increased emissions.

10. How much does it cost to repair a Vehicle Speed Sensor issue in a 1999 Toyota Camry?

The cost of repairing a Vehicle Speed Sensor issue can vary depending on the extent of the problem, the cost of parts, and labor rates. However, it is generally considered a relatively affordable repair compared to other automotive issues.