AutoCodes – Generic – P2159

P2159 Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Range/Performance

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 (VSS) harness is open or shorted, Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) 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: P2159 indicates Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Range/Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) harness is open or shorted, Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) 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 33,909

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 Jun 27, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P2159 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.

OBDII Code P2159 - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com — P2159 Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Range/Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2159?

Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)
Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) harness is open or shorted
Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P2159?

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 P2159 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 P2159 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2159 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P2159 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P2159 Buick — Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Range/Performance
P2159 Cadillac — Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Range/Performance
P2159 Chevrolet — Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Range/Performance
P2159 Dodge — Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Range/Performance
P2159 GMC — Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Range/Performance
P2159 Hyundai — Vehicle Speed Sensor 'B' Circuit Range/Performance
P2159 KIA — Vehicle Speed Sensor 'B' Circuit Range/Performance

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 P2159 Code

1. What does the OBDII code P2159 mean?

P2159 indicates an issue with Vehicle Speed Sensor 2, specifically that it is operating outside its expected range or performance parameters.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P2159 code?

Symptoms may include erratic or incorrect speedometer readings, poor transmission shifting, reduced fuel efficiency, or activation of the Check Engine Light.

3. What causes the P2159 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor 2, damaged or corroded wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning PCM, or incorrect tire size affecting speed readings.

4. Can I drive with a P2159 code?

While driving may still be possible, it is not recommended as the code can affect transmission performance and vehicle safety systems dependent on accurate speed data.

5. How do I diagnose the P2159 code?

Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspecting the Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 and its wiring for damage, and testing the sensor's output with a multimeter.

6. How is the P2159 code fixed?

Repairs may include replacing the faulty speed sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, updating or reprogramming the PCM, or correcting mismatched tire sizes.

7. How much does it cost to fix a P2159 code?

The repair cost depends on the root cause, ranging from $100 to $300 for sensor replacement, while wiring repairs or PCM replacement can increase the cost.

8. Can a dirty or corroded connector cause the P2159 code?

Yes, dirt, corrosion, or poor connections in the wiring harness can disrupt signals from the speed sensor and trigger the code.

9. Will a faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 affect my transmission?

Yes, a malfunctioning speed sensor can cause improper transmission shifting or failure to shift, as the transmission relies on accurate speed data.

10. Can an aftermarket tire size trigger the P2159 code?

Yes, using tires with a significantly different size or circumference than the original specification can cause discrepancies in speed sensor readings and trigger the code.