P0609 Control Module VSS Output “B” Malfunction
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Control Module VSS Output B Malfunction
What does that mean?
This generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) typically applies to many OBD-II vehicles. That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Citroen, Chevy, Ford, Peugeot, GMC, Dodge, Ram, Ducati, etc.
The powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a malfunction in a particular vehicle speed sensor (VSS) output voltage signal when a code P0609 is stored.
In this case, a VSS output signal was expected to come from either the PCM itself or one of the many (other) on-board controllers. This particular VSS output circuit has been given the designation "B". Consult a source of reliable vehicle information for the specific function of this circuit as it pertains to the vehicle in question.
Vehicles which are equipped with OBD-II diagnostic systems may utilize as many as seventy on-board controllers. These controllers communicate via the controller area network (CAN).
The VSS is an electromagnetic sensor that is used to complete a circuit which provides one or more controllers with an accurate signal reflecting vehicle speed. The VSS is typically positioned near the output shaft of the transmission (or 4WD transfer case) or in the rear differential. A toothed, steel reluctor (permanently affixed to the output shaft or ring gear) passes within close proximity to the electromagnetic sensor and completes the circuit. The gaps between the teeth provide circuit interruptions. The PCM and other controllers receive these circuit completions and interruptions as a wave form pattern of voltage. The frequency of this wave form pattern is interpreted as vehicle speed.
The VSS signal is usually input to a primary controller, such as the PCM or transmission control module (TCM). Once the primary controller receives the VSS input, it is shared with other controllers via the CAN. If any of these secondary controllers fails to receive the VSS signal, or receives an inconsistent VSS signal, a code P0609 will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may be illuminated.
Example photo of a VSS (Vehicle Speed Sensor):
What is the severity of this DTC?
VSS related codes may affect transmission shift strategy and engine drivability. A stored code P0609 should be classified as severe and diagnosed/repaired as quickly as possible.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P0609 trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this code may include:
What are some P0609 troubleshooting steps?
If other VSS related codes are stored, they will need to be diagnosed and repaired before attempting to diagnose the P0609.
A diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter, and a source of reliable vehicle information will be required to diagnose this code.
Use the vehicle information source to search technical service bulletins (TSB) that parallel the vehicle in question, as well as the code stored and the symptoms exhibited. If you find an applicable TSB, the likelihood that it will provide helpful diagnostic information is very great.
Utilize the vehicle information source for diagnostic flow charts, wiring diagrams, connector pin-out charts, connector face views, and component testing procedures/specifications. All this information will be required for a successful diagnosis.
After a visual inspection of controller connectors and visible CAN harnesses, connect the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port and retrieve all stored codes. If freeze frame data is available, grab that too. Make a note of all this information. It may prove helpful later in your diagnosis. Now, clear the codes and test drive the vehicle until the PCM either enters readiness mode or the code is reset.
If the PCM enters readiness mode without any codes being stored, you are dealing with an intermittent code and the problem which contributed to it may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be reached.
If the code is reset, continue with your diagnosis.
Warning: Before using the DVOM to test circuit resistance and continuity, disconnect all related controllers. Failure to do so may result in controller damage.
With the key on and the engine off, use the DVOM to test individual VSS output circuits at the appropriate controller. Compare your findings with VSS signal data. If no acceptable output signal is detected, suspect controller failure.
If an acceptable VSS output signal is discovered at the controller, use the DVOM to test individual circuits between each of the related controllers. Repair or replace system circuits or components as required and retest the VSS signal.
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"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p0609 in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p0609 and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.
Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p0609.
