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AutoCodes – Buick – P2160 Buick

P2160 Buick Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage

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 harness 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
P2160 Buick indicates Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), Vehicle Speed Sensor harness 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 1,137
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 08, 2022
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Code P2160 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. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when there is no speed signal from the transfer case speed sensor.
OBDII Code P2160 Buick - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P2160 Buick Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage
What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2160 Buick?

  • Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)
  • Vehicle Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Vehicle Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P2160 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 P2160 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 P2160 Buick code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2160 Buick code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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Get the P2160 Buick code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P2160 Buick Code

1. What does the OBDII code P2160 mean for a Buick?

P2160 indicates that the vehicle's onboard computer has detected a low voltage issue in the Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 (VSS2) circuit.

2. What are the symptoms of code P2160 in a Buick?

Common symptoms include erratic or non-functional speedometer, poor transmission performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and possibly an illuminated check engine light.

3. What causes the P2160 code in a Buick?

Possible causes include a faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor 2, damaged or corroded wiring, loose connections, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM).

4. Can I drive my Buick with the P2160 code?

While the car may still be drivable, ignoring the issue can lead to transmission problems, reduced performance, and potential safety risks. It’s best to address the problem promptly.

5. How is the P2160 code diagnosed?

A technician will use an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspect the VSS2 wiring and connections, and test the sensor’s voltage output to identify the root cause.

6. How do you fix the P2160 code on a Buick?

Repairs may involve replacing the Vehicle Speed Sensor 2, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming or replacing the PCM if necessary.

7. What tools are needed to diagnose and fix the P2160 code?

Common tools include an OBDII scanner, multimeter, and basic hand tools for inspecting and repairing wiring or replacing the sensor.

8. How much does it cost to fix the P2160 code in a Buick?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $100 to $300, depending on whether the issue is with the sensor, wiring, or PCM.

9. Can a dirty or corroded connector cause the P2160 code?

Yes, corroded or loose connectors can disrupt the voltage signal and trigger the P2160 code.

10. Is the P2160 code specific to Buick vehicles?

No, P2160 is a generic OBDII code applicable to many vehicles, but the exact repair steps may vary depending on the make and model.

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