AutoCodes – Ford – P0503 1999 Ford F150

P0503 1999 Ford F150 Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent

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: P0503 1999 Ford F150 indicates Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent .
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 2,547

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 Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0503 1999 Ford F150 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 P0503 1999 Ford F150 - Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent - AutoCodes.com — P0503 1999 Ford F150 Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0503 1999 Ford F150?

Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor
Vehicle speed sensor harness or connectors is open or shorted
Vehicle speed sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Damaged VSS or driven gears
After market add-on
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0503 1999 Ford F150?

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

Indicates poor or noisy VSS performance. Vehicle speed data is received from either the vehicle speed sensor (VSS), transfer case speed sensor (TCSS) or anti-lock brake system (ABS) control module.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0503 1999 Ford F150 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 P0503 1999 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0503 in a 1999 Ford F150?

- Common symptoms include erratic or non-functioning speedometer, cruise control issues, harsh shifting, and illuminated warning lights on the dashboard.

2. What does the OBDII code P0503 in a 1999 Ford F150 mean?

- This code indicates an intermittent malfunction in the vehicle speed sensor circuit.

3. What are the possible causes of an intermittent Vehicle Speed Sensor issue in a 1999 Ford F150?

- Potential causes include a faulty speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a corroded sensor connector, or issues with the speedometer itself.

4. How can I diagnose the Vehicle Speed Sensor issue in my 1999 Ford F150?

- Diagnose by visually inspecting the sensor and its connections, testing the sensor's output with a multimeter, and checking for any damaged or corroded wiring.

5. Can I drive my 1999 Ford F150 with OBDII code P0503?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code as it can lead to further transmission issues and affect the overall drivability.

6. How can I repair an intermittent Vehicle Speed Sensor issue in my 1999 Ford F150?

- Repair involves replacing the faulty speed sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, and ensuring all connections are secure and free of corrosion.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code P0503 in my 1999 Ford F150 make the issue go away?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but it will not fix the underlying problem causing the intermittent Vehicle Speed Sensor issue.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the OBDII code P0503 in a 1999 Ford F150?

- Depending on the individual's mechanical skills and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to diagnose and repair the issue, but professional assistance is recommended for accurate diagnosis and proper repair.

9. How much does it cost to repair the Vehicle Speed Sensor issue in a 1999 Ford F150?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the extent of the issue, the labor rates in your area, and whether you choose OEM or aftermarket parts. It's recommended to get a few quotes from reputable mechanics.

10. Can a bad Vehicle Speed Sensor affect other systems in my 1999 Ford F150?

- Yes, a malfunctioning speed sensor can impact the vehicle's transmission shifting, fuel efficiency, cruise control operation, and ABS functionality. Addressing the issue promptly is essential to prevent further damage.