speed sensor

2003 FORD EXPLORER
Avatar
[email protected]
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST

having problems with what I think is the speed sensor. I have already replaced a failing transmission, at only 74,000 miles. Now my truck is starting to do everything all over again. My O/D OFF light will flash at me and my triptometer, (where it shows my mileage) will read only, - - - - - -, instead of the miles. But does eventually go back to the mileage. It also shifts "weird" when this is occurring. What I want to know is, first are there 1 or 2 speed sensors? and then where do I find the speed sensor on my vehicle?

Thanks alot

Sara
Dec 11, 2009 at 6:26 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,854 POSTS
Hello,

The vehicle speed sensor is located at the rear of the transmission up toward the top of the tail housing here is a diagram set (below) that will show you exactly where it is.

Check out the diagrams (Below)

Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.

Cheers, Ken
Images (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Attached Media
Attached Media
Dec 11, 2009 at 6:45 PM
Avatar
RCISSNE
  • MEMBER
  • 23 POSTS
where is it located, and best way to install?
Aug 12, 2019 at 6:29 PM (Merged)
Advertisement
Avatar
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 16,542 POSTS
Hello,

Here is the location for the vehicle speed sensor or the output shaft speed sensor as it is called. The VSS is attached to the transmission, the best way to replace it is to first disconnect battery cable. Then raise and safely support vehicle. Detach the electrical wiring from the VSS then unbolt the VSS from mounting location. Check out the diagrams (Below). Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.
Image (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Aug 12, 2019 at 6:29 PM (Merged)
Avatar
RCISSNE
  • MEMBER
  • 23 POSTS
you guys are good.
where is the sensor located on the trans?
Aug 12, 2019 at 6:29 PM (Merged)
Avatar
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 16,542 POSTS
sorry my mistake, your vehicle actually uses a rear axle sensor rather than a VSS. it is connected to the rear axle housing by one bolt and the electrical connector.
Aug 12, 2019 at 6:29 PM (Merged)
Avatar
RCISSNE
  • MEMBER
  • 23 POSTS
what is the sensor on the rear axle called?
i went to parts store he said it was a brake sensor of some type.
he also sold me a vss and said it was located on the side of the trans.
i do not have much faith in a parts guy, but i really would like to know where that vss is located, maybe a diagram?
thanks riley
Aug 12, 2019 at 6:29 PM (Merged)
Avatar
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 16,542 POSTS
it is simply called the rear axle sensor, some may call it a rear speed sensor , should have a red/pink and a light green/black wire running to it. it is part of the ABS that also works as a VSS. i'm not certain why the parts place sold you a VSS for, I am 99% positive that there is no separate VSS on this vehicle aside from the rear axle sensor. Check the diagrams above.
Aug 12, 2019 at 6:29 PM (Merged)
Avatar
ERICKALANDEROS
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
On the check engine diagnostics the code that came up was a vehicle speed sensor that needs to be replaced. I cannot find where the sensor is to replace it. Can you please help me? It's a Ford Explorer 4x4, 6 cylinders.

Thanks,
Aug 12, 2019 at 6:29 PM (Merged)
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 52,796 POSTS
what is the code??? a code never identifies a bad part just a failed system.

it is on the rear differental housing

Roy
Aug 12, 2019 at 6:29 PM (Merged)