speedometer and odometer in my car only work occasionally

1998 HONDA CIVIC
144,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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JPVONK2
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
The speedometer and odometer in my car only work occasionally. They work and don't work simultaneously. When they do not work the speedometer pulses around 25 MPH and the odometer doesn't work at all. I replaced my vehicle speed sensor and it did not fix the problem. Is there a way I can tell if it is the speedometer or the wiring?
Jun 8, 2010 at 1:50 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,244 POSTS
Hi,

The odometer and speedometer drive circuits receive pulses from the vehicle speed sensor (VSS). The pulse rate increases as the car accelerates. The frequency and duration of these input pulses are measured and displayed by the speedometer, odometer, and trip meter.

With that in mind, we know it could be the vehicle speed sensor (VSS), a wiring issue, or the speedometer unit itself.

Here are the diagnostics to determine what is causing the problem. Based on your description, I suspect it is a wiring issue rather than one of the components. However, this is what needs to be done to confirm. The attached pics correlate with the directions.

________________________________

1998 Honda Civic DX Sedan L4-1590cc 1.6L SOHC MFI
Troubleshooting
Vehicle Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Computers and Control Systems Vehicle Speed Sensor Testing and Inspection Component Tests and General Diagnostics Troubleshooting
TROUBLESHOOTING
Part 1 Of 2

see pic 1


Part 2 Of 2

see pic 2

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
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Apr 7, 2021 at 5:52 AM
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