AutoCodes – Dodge – P2160 Dodge

P2160 Dodge 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 Dodge 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 3,429

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 Sep 08, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P2160 Dodge 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 Dodge - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P2160 Dodge Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2160 Dodge?

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 Dodge?

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 Dodge 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 P2160 Dodge Code

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

P2160 indicates that the vehicle's Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a low voltage issue in the circuit for Vehicle Speed Sensor 2.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P2160 code on a Dodge?

Symptoms may include erratic or inaccurate speedometer readings, reduced fuel efficiency, transmission shifting issues, or the Check Engine Light illuminating.

3. What causes the P2160 code to appear on a Dodge?

Common causes include a faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) 2, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, a failed PCM, or corroded electrical connections.

4. Can I drive my Dodge with the P2160 code active?

Driving with this code is not recommended as it can cause transmission issues or unsafe driving conditions due to inaccurate speed readings.

5. How do I diagnose the P2160 code on my Dodge?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, then test the VSS 2 for proper operation using a multimeter. If no issues are found, check the PCM for faults.

6. How do I fix the P2160 code on a Dodge vehicle?

Repairs may involve replacing the faulty VSS 2, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, cleaning corroded terminals, or reprogramming or replacing the PCM if necessary.

7. What tools are required to troubleshoot the P2160 code?

Basic tools include an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for testing voltage and continuity, and potentially a wiring diagram specific to the vehicle.

8. How much does it cost to repair the P2160 code on a Dodge?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $100 to $250, depending on whether the VSS 2 needs replacement or if wiring repairs are required.

9. Can a bad battery cause the P2160 code on a Dodge?

While uncommon, a weak or failing battery can cause voltage issues that might trigger the code. Testing the battery and charging system is a good practice.

10. Does the P2160 code affect the transmission in a Dodge?

Yes, this code can cause shifting problems as the transmission relies on accurate speed sensor data for proper operation.