Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Speedometer/Odometer

The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) generates an output signal with a frequency proportional to vehicle speed. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) converts this signal to an output that drives the Speedometer, Odometer and Cruise Control Module.

The Vehicle Speed Sensor is mounted in the Transaxle. A magnet rotates near a coil, producing voltage pulses in the coil. The frequency of the AC voltage produced by this coil is proportional to the vehicle speed.

The PCM converts the voltage pulses from the VSS into a 4,000 pulse per mile signal. This signal closes a solid state output switch to ground at a rate proportional to vehicle speed. This switch output is the vehicle speed input to the Speedometer and Odometer.