P2159 OBD-II Trouble Code: Vehicle Speed Sensor B Range/Performance

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC): P2159

P2159 code definition

Vehicle Speed Sensor B Range/Performance

Related Trouble Codes:

• P2158: Vehicle Speed Sensor B
• P2160: Vehicle Speed Sensor B Circuit Low
• P2161: Vehicle Speed Sensor B Interm/Erratic
• P2162: Vehicle Speed Sensor A/B Correlation

What the P2159 code means

The P2159 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is an indication that there is a range/performance issue with the vehicle speed sensor B.

The vehicle speed sensor B reads the wheel speed sensor for the anti-lock brake system (ABS). There are several components that are impacted by the operation of the vehicle speed sensor. If this sensor is not operating properly, the transmission shift, engine driveability, and cruise control system may all be affected by this malfunction.

The vehicle speed sensor sends a voltage signal to the powertrain control module (PCM), which is interpreted as miles per hour (mph). If the PCM receives a voltage reading that falls outside of the predetermined range set by the manufacturer, the P2159 DTC will be stored and the check engine light will come on.

What causes the P2159 code?

• Faulty vehicle speed sensor
• Faulty ABS sensor
• Vehicle speed sensor wiring that is damaged, shorted, or open
• Vehicle speed sensor connector that is damaged, corroded, or disconnected
• Faulty wheel bearings
• Faulty reluctor ring
• Aftermarket tires and wheels
• Faulty PCM
• Faulty or failed transmission (rare)

What are the symptoms of the P2159 code?

• Check Engine Light is on
• Faulty speedometer
• Faulty tachometer
• Faulty odometer
• Disabled anti-lock brakes
• ABS warning indicator light is on
• Unstable shift patterns
• Malfunction in the vehicle rev limiter

How does a mechanic diagnose the P2159 code?

• Uses an OBD-II scanner to collect all trouble codes that have been stored by the PCM as well as freeze frame data

• Inspects the vehicle speed sensor wiring for corrosion, shorts, breaks and frays

• Inspects the vehicle speed sensor connectors for damaged pins, corrosion and broken plastic

• Repairs or replaces any damaged vehicle speed sensor wiring and connectors

• Clears all DTCs and completes a test drive to see if the P2159 trouble code comes back

• If the P2159 trouble code does come back, carefully removes the vehicle speed sensor and inspects it for cracks and/or metal shavings (metal shavings should be cleared, however, if there are any cracks in the sensor, it will need to be replaced)

• Clears all DTCs and completes a test drive to see if the P2159 trouble code comes back.

• If the P2159 trouble code does come back, inspects the ABS components for damage (any damaged ABS components should repaired or replaced)

• Diagnoses any ABS DTCs stored by the PCM and makes any necessary repairs

• Clears all DTCs and completes a test drive to see if the P2159 trouble code comes back

• If the P2159 DTC does come back, checks the vehicle speed sensor voltage readings (this voltage reading should fall within the predetermined specifications set by the manufacturer; if they do not, the vehicle speed sensor will need to be replaced)

• Clears all DTCs and completes a test drive to see if the P2159 trouble code comes back.

• If the P2159 trouble code does come back, views vehicle speed sensor voltage waveform patterns (The vehicle speed sensor waveform patterns should fall within the predetermined specifications set by the manufacturer; if they do not, the reluctor ring is faulty and should be replaced)

If all other diagnostic and repair measures have failed, it is possible that the PCM or the transmission are faulty.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P2159 code

• Wheel speed sensor and/or other ABS sensors replaced in error when the vehicle speed sensor is the cause of the P2159 DTC.

• Other DTCs stored in the PCM. Trouble codes should be diagnosed in the order that they appear on the OBD-II scanner.

How serious is the P2159 code?

A diagnostic trouble code is usually considered serious when it causes driveability issues or a change in performance.The P2159 DTC is considered serious because it will cause driveability issues and create unsafe driving conditions. This trouble code should be diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.

What repairs can fix the P2159 code?

• Replacing a faulty vehicle speed sensor

• Replacing faulty ABS components

• Replacing faulty wheel bearings

• Repairing or replacing damaged electrical components

• Repairing or replacing vehicle speed sensor wiring that is damaged, shorted, or open

• Repairing or replacing vehicle speed sensor connectors that are damaged, corroded, or disconnected

• Replacing aftermarket tires and wheels with original tires and wheels

• Replacing and reprogramming the PCM

• Replace faulty or failed transmission (rare)

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P2159 code

The P2159 diagnostic trouble code is most commonly fixed by replacing the vehicle speed sensor. Keep in mind that ABS components, other trouble codes, and aftermarket tires may be responsible for this code being stored by the PCM. Take time and complete a thorough diagnosis before replacing the vehicle speed sensor.

Need help with a P2159 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.