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P0500 Fault Diagnosis: Chrysler Crossfire 2005 - VSS vs TSS, Limp Mode & Gear Shift Issues

Model: Chrysler Crossfire Fault Code: P0500 Posted: 2019-07-09 21:31

I'm experiencing a P0500 fault code on my 2005 Chrysler Crossfire. The issue seems to involve one of four possible causes — all potentially simple fixes. I've already replaced the tire with a new one, and even after installing it, the tire light remains on. This makes me wonder if this is a Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) or Tachometer Speed Sensor (TSS) fault. The transmission was serviced at 80,000 miles, but I'm unsure whether they replaced the P13 plug during that service. The car only shows the tire light and the P0500 code when starting — no other warning lights appear. The shifting behavior is particularly odd: after a long drive, when approaching a stop, the vehicle fails to engage first gear. It starts in second gear and doesn't shift properly. When I turn off the car and restart it, everything works fine for about 30 miles until the next stop, where the issue reappears. Turning off and restarting resolves it temporarily — this behavior is very strange. I'm not sure whether this is a sensor issue or a communication problem between the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and the Anti-lock Braking System controller via CAN bus. The P0500 code is linked to a CAB CAN message, indicating potential issues in vehicle computer communication. Any guidance on how to diagnose this — especially whether I should check the VSS, TSS, or transmission control module? I haven't yet used an OBD-II scanner and am considering doing some soldering if needed. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Related fault codes
P0500
Comments (3)
Anonymous 2019-07-10 11:08

Make sure you use a proper OBD-II scanner to confirm the exact code and its status. The common 'key-on-off' trick is not reliable for P0500 issues. Also, check if your speedometer functions normally — if it works, that suggests the VSS is likely functional. The P0500 code often relates to a CAN bus communication failure between the PCM and the Anti-lock Braking System controller.

Anonymous 2019-07-10 19:10

My speedometer does work normally. I haven’t had access to an OBD-II scanner yet — won’t be able to use one until this weekend. I’ll check the CAN bus connection and inspect for any loose or corroded wiring. Could a simple repair, like re-soldering a connector, resolve it? If so, what specific components should I focus on?

Anonymous 2019-08-04 16:45

This issue has been driving me crazy — I initially had P0300, P0400, and P0500 codes. After some time, the P0400 and P0500 disappeared, but now only P0300 remains. I found several dirty plug wires and am waiting for Bosch replacement parts. The next step is to inspect the transmission control module (TCM). Are there any other common components or wiring paths that should be checked before replacing the TCM?