AutoCodes – Buick – P2159 Buick

P2159 Buick 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 Buick 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 1,041
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 27, 2020
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Code P2159 Buick 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 Buick - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com
P2159 Buick Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Range/Performance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2159 Buick?

  • 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 Buick?

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 Buick 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 Buick 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 P2159 Buick Code

What does the OBDII code P2159 mean for a Buick?

1. P2159 indicates an issue with the Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 (VSS2), specifically a range or performance problem where the sensor's signal falls outside expected parameters. 2.

What are the common symptoms of code P2159 in a Buick?

Symptoms may include erratic or incorrect speedometer readings, poor acceleration, transmission shifting issues, reduced fuel efficiency, or the check engine light turning on. 3.

What causes the P2159 code to appear on a Buick?

Possible causes include a faulty vehicle speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning speedometer cluster, or issues with the powertrain control module (PCM). 4.

Can I drive my Buick with a P2159 code?

While it may be possible to drive, it is not recommended, as the issue can affect transmission performance and safety features like cruise control and ABS. 5.

How do I diagnose the P2159 code on a Buick?

Start by inspecting the vehicle speed sensor, wiring, and connectors for damage. Use a multimeter to test the sensor's output and confirm proper operation with a scan tool. 6.

How do I fix the P2159 code on my Buick?

Repairs may include replacing a faulty vehicle speed sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming or replacing the PCM if necessary. 7.

How much does it cost to fix the P2159 code on a Buick?

Repair costs can range from $100 to $300, depending on whether the issue is a faulty sensor, damaged wiring, or a more complex PCM problem. 8.

What tools are needed to troubleshoot the P2159 code on a Buick?

Common tools include an OBDII scan tool, a multimeter for electrical testing, and basic hand tools for accessing and replacing the sensor. 9.

Can a dirty or misaligned speed sensor trigger the P2159 code?

Yes, debris, dirt, or improper installation of the speed sensor can cause inaccurate readings, triggering the P2159 code. 10.

Will clearing the P2159 code with a scan tool fix the problem?

Clearing the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but the underlying issue must be resolved to prevent the code from returning.

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