Why won't my speedometer work correctly?

Question

If I drive any slower than 30mph my speedo will not register. Needle won't move at all. Any faster than 30mph and it operates normally. My ABS light is also on, could these two problems have something in common? This for my 2000 Ford Ranger 5spd regular cab.

Answer 1

ALL of the above posts are INCORRECT. Firstly, your 2000 Ranger DOES NOT have a speedometer cable. Depending on whether you have 4-wheel ABS (4WABS), or rear-wheel ABS (RABS), the speedometer gets it's information from the ABS module directly, if it's equipped with 4-wheel ABS, or the GEM (Generic Electronic Module) if it's equipped with rear-wheel ABS. The vehicle speed information is picked up by the rear speed sensor located on top of the rear differential housing, and relayed to the aforementioned modules. So, in answer to your question, YES, most likely those two problems ARE RELATED. It is a common failure on Explorers & Rangers. The sensor is not that expensive from the Ford dealer. The part number is BRAB-130 (Ford Base Part Number 2L373) and approximately $23.00. Also not difficult to replace. Hope this helps.

Answer 2

The ABS uses speed sensors at each wheel to detect a different speed at each wheel in proportion to your car speed and if a difference is detected the anti lock brake system will pump the brakes when you apply the brake pedal to prevent a skid. If the speed sensors don't put out the same speed signal the anti-lock brakes will be deactivated and a fault light will come on. The car will brake normally but the anti-lock brakes will not function.First check the fuses for the ABS system and the speedometer fuse also try cleaning the shaft on the speed sensors as a little metal on the magnets will screw up the sensors and if that don't help,I suggest that you take the truck to a mechanic, dealer or speedometer shop

Answer 3

The cable is probably the only problem. And a phenomenon called Ford-itis. I had a 91 Ford Escort and the cable just broke.. didn't have a speedometer or odomoter for about 2 months.

Answer 4

Wyy don't we do the obvious first ??
Take your vehicle to a major auto supply and ask them to scan your trouble code. The abs lite is on and that means a problem.
The scan will produce a problem but not a fix. You will at least know the problem. Don't go to a shop or dealer for this scan, they will charge you $70 or up.
Your abs will not affect your normal brake operation so don't be afraid to drive.
The speedometer problem is not related.

Answer 5

It sounds like you have a dodgy connection somewhere around the cable\speedometer interface. Unfortunately you may have to take out your whole dash to get to it.

Answer 6

Id look into maybe your ECU. If the cable was the problem it wouldnt work after 30 miles per hour. It wouldnt register at all, or it would just bounce around...

Id start there at the ECU (computer of the car) and work backwards.

Answer 7

Sounds like a gear problem. check and see if it is loose where it attaches to your speed needle valve and to the under car part. probley transmission. could be loose. soem imes dealer swill disconnect it and run the milage back and leav eit loose. (yeah dealers do that real regular even new car dealers.)
If it isn't you hose than it's a gear slipping, or the needle is bad.

Answer 8

well you prob just a lose wire on the speedo it connected to the tranny but 90% chance its a lose wire and the abd might have a prob or might be justa idiot light

Answer 9

Highly unlikely....I would have some check the speedometer cable.

Answer 10

because it is a ford