Speedo/odometer first didn't work, now go to max. Engine doesn't know what to do.

[wilbertd]

Hi, I found some threads about this problem here on the forum but couldn't find a solution.

At first the speedometer and odometer of our 1992 4runner sometimes didn't work but after some driving normally kicked in again.
Driving was fine during the moments the speedo/odometer didn't work.
So, I didn't mind too much.

But now the speedometer sometimes moves all the way to the right (max. speed) and the odometer starts to run very fast. During these moments the engine doesn't seems to know what to do anymore (like the engine revs when you want to accelerate, but doesn't pic up speed, it gets in all the wrong gears).

My thoughts are a bad sensor or such.
Who can point me in the right direction?

Thanks,
Wilbert

 

[Tyota89]

Are you getting any codes with it? Sounds like speed sensor but it usually kicks a code.

 

[wilbertd]

Are you getting any codes with it? Sounds like speed sensor but it usually kicks a code.

I'm a total noob when it comes to this car. We bought it last year because we could really use the big 4 wheels last winter.

Could you tell me where I can read out codes and where to find the sensor?

 

[Tyota89]

I'm a total noob when it comes to this car. We bought it last year because we could really use the big 4 wheels this winter.

Could you tell me where I can read out codes and where to find the sensor?

Is your check engine light on? If so take it to autozone or any other parts store they will read it for you.

 

[wilbertd]

Is your check engine light on? If so take it to autozone or any other parts store they will read it for you.

Ah okay. Yes the light is on.
But are there any 'obvious' things I can check myself before I bring it to the show and open up my wallet ?

Like this speed sensor for example.

 

[Tyota89]

Ah okay. Yes the light is on.
But are there any 'obvious' things I can check myself before I bring it to the show and open up my wallet ?

Like this speed sensor for example.

Autozone should check the code for free. Most likely your vss sensor on the transfer case. You can check the wiring and see if it loose or broken.

 

[wilbertd]

Autozone should check the code for free.

We don't have that here in Sweden

Okay, wires on the transfer case. Tomorrow I will dive under the car.

 

[Tyota89]

We don't have that here in Sweden

Okay, wires on the transfer case. Tomorrow I will dive under the car.

Most likely it will be the actual sensor itself that has failed. So you can shotgun parts and just change it out not guarantee fix though.

 

[wilbertd]

Most likely it will be the actual sensor itself that has failed. So you can shotgun parts and just change it out not guarantee fix though.

I might just do that.
Would this be the part I'm after?
If so, for 16 bucks it sure is worth a try.

VSS Vehicle Speed Sensor for Chevy Geo Toyota Carolla Camry 83181 12020 | eBay

 

[Tyota89]

No, I would suggest going to an online parts store that lets you select your vehicle year and make/model. I never had to change one out of a 2nd gen but that is what one looks like.