Speedometer failure

MOMATUS1986

MEMBER
2001 HYUNDAI SANTA FE
2WD
AUTOMATIC
200,000 MILES

Just bought a used car this car used. Struts came broken and front tires had metal showing. Replacing all of that this week when parts get here.

My question is, the check engine light is on and the speedometer doesn't work. I know a fair amount about vehicles and the transmission shifts beautifully, engine sounds good and strong, no rough shifting of gears. (Like our last car) Drives good aside from broken struts.
Do I need to replace speed sensor or speedometer itself?

Also, do you by chance have a guide to replace front struts on it? Or what size sockets we will need? I am fairly confident that I know how this is done but knowing what tools I will need would be greatly appreciated.

1 Reply

D6SPAN

MECHANIC
58 POSTS

Hi Momatus,

Sounds like you have quite the project on your plate!
Before you replace your speedometer or speed sensor, you should test your speed sensor to help you decide what the problem is.
Here is an article on how to do that:
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/abs-wheel-speed-sensor-test

And then if it is faulty, here's an article on how to replace it:
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-an-abs-wheel-speed-sensor

I am posting images with the numbers 1-4 at the end of the file name for order reference for you on how to remove your front struts. I certainly prefer a visual reference! But here is just the steps for removing and reinstalling the front struts on your Santa Fe.

FRONT STRUT

Removal
1. Remove the wheel and tire.
2. Detach the brake hose clip from the strut assembly mounting bracket.
3. Detach the wheel speed sensor harness from the front axle knuckle.
CAUTION: Be careful not to damage the wheel speed sensor.
4. Remove the stabilizer bar link.
5. Remove the knuckle from the strut assembly.
6. Remove the 3 under mounting nuts of the strut.
7. Remove the strut assembly.

Installation
1. Installation is the reverse of removal.

Now, the most dangerous part of replacing struts, if you aren't getting quick struts that come ready to be installed in your vehicle, is compressing the spring. Please take this part very seriously! I have included a picture of a strut spring compressor that Hyundai recommends using. Some people choose to use a spring compression tool that consists of two independent bolts and you tighten down to compress each side a little at a time to get even compression. You must watch for the rods slipping around the spring as it will cause uneven compression and likely injury. These are very dangerous and are commonly referred to as widow makers, so please use the utmost caution if you choose to use them.

That being said, best of luck to you! I hope your projects go without a hitch!

Images (Click to make bigger)