AutoCodesSubaru – P0502 Subaru

P0502 Subaru Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Low Input

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
P0502 Subaru indicates Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Low Input.
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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 748
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 09, 2023
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Code P0502 Subaru 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 P0502 Subaru - Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Low Input - AutoCodes.com
P0502 Subaru Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Low Input

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0502 Subaru?

  • 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)

How to Fix the DTC P0502 Subaru?

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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0502 Subaru 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 P0502 Subaru 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 P0502 Subaru Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0502 on a Subaru related to the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Low Input?

- Common symptoms include erratic speedometer readings, issues with cruise control functionality, and potential problems with shifting gears.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0502 in a Subaru indicating a Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Low Input?

- The code can be triggered by a faulty speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a defective speedometer, or issues with the transmission control module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0502 on my Subaru for a Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Low Input issue?

- A thorough diagnosis involves checking the speed sensor for proper operation, inspecting the wiring for any damage, and using a scan tool to retrieve live data related to vehicle speed.

4. Can driving with an unresolved P0502 OBDII code on a Subaru be harmful?

- While the vehicle may still be drivable, it is not recommended to ignore the issue, as it can lead to inaccurate speed readings and potential safety hazards on the road.

5. How can I repair the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Low Input issue causing OBDII code P0502 on my Subaru?

- Repair options may include replacing the faulty speed sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, resetting the code with a scan tool, or seeking professional assistance for further diagnosis.

6. Will resetting the OBDII code P0502 on my Subaru fix the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Low Input problem permanently?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear once the problem persists.

7. Are there any DIY tips for troubleshooting the P0502 code related to the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Low Input on a Subaru?

- DIY tips include visually inspecting the speed sensor and its connections, testing the sensor's resistance, and checking for any visible damage to the wiring harness.

8. Can extreme weather conditions affect the triggering of OBDII code P0502 on a Subaru for the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Low Input issue?

- Yes, extreme temperatures or moisture can sometimes cause sensor malfunctions or damage to wiring, leading to the triggering of the P0502 code.

9. How long does it typically take to repair the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Low Input problem causing OBDII code P0502 on a Subaru?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours for a professional technician to diagnose and resolve the problem.

10. Are there any recalls or technical service bulletins related to the OBDII code P0502 in Subaru vehicles for the Vehicle Speed Sensor 'A' Low Input issue?

- It is recommended to check with Subaru dealerships or online resources to see if there are any known recalls or technical service bulletins addressing the P0502 code in specific Subaru models.

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