2003 Matrix Speed Sensor Problem

[Roccie245]

My check engine light has been on for several months for code P0500. I brought the car to my local Toyota dealer. After 2 1/2 hours of searching, they said my ABS system has failed and it would cost over $2,000 to fix it, P&L included. Has anyone else had this type of issue? The car has over 103K miles and has been religiously taken care of since day one. I'm wondering if I should get a second opinion but don't want to spend more money on the diagnostic process. Any help/advice would be appreciated!!!

[fishexpo101]

I'd go to another dealership or independent garage for a second opinion - a P0500 code has nothing to do with the ABS system. It usually indicates an issue with the combination meter (gauge cluster), open or short in vehicle speed sensor circuit, vehicle speed sensor (on the transaxle), or ECM problem.

Also, have you tried resetting the ECM and seeing if the same code comes back? Sometimes, the ECM can get into a confused mode. Resetting it can sometimes pop it back into line.

[Roccie245]

Thank you for responding. I got a second opinion from an independent garage. Their cost estimate is $2,200. They said the actuator itself costs $1,800.

The actual Diagnosis is as follows: ACE to faulty ABS Actuator w/ECU - P0500. Intermittant signal loss from ABS ECU to Speedometer and Engine ECU.

[1337trix]

you cant go to the wreckers and try to find the part?

[fishexpo101]

That sucks. Not a known issue with Matrix or Corollas, as far as I know.

Have you noted if the speedometer is acting weird or if the cruise control is not working at all? Have you tried to test he ABS system at speed?

Intermittent signal to ECM is pretty common in BMWs - almost always means it is the ABS actuator - a most expensive part.

Best case, it is a bad VSS sensor on the transaxle or a bad ABS wheel sensor. But if two shops diagnose the condition and can up with the same results - looks like it is going to be a expensive fix, regardless where you get the parts.