Fault code P215A is called “Vehicle Speed โ Wheel Speed Correlation” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P215A
Stored code P215A means that the control module (PCM) has detected a mismatch. A mismatch has been detected between the vehicle output speed sensor and one (or more) wheel speed sensors.
The output speed and wheel speed sensors are designed to detect vehicle speed, but each is part of a separate circuit. The output speed sensor is part of the transmission control circuit, and the wheel speed sensor is part of the anti-lock braking system.
The PCM constantly monitors the vehicle’s output speed when the vehicle is moving forward. The individual wheel speed sensor inputs are continuously monitored by the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCRM).
The two controllers exchange data via the CAN bus and compare signals at all times while the vehicle is in motion.
If either controller detects a deviation between output speed and wheel speed. Which exceeds the maximum threshold for a given time, code P215A will be stored and the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may illuminate.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P215A has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- The “Check engine” control lamp on the control panel will illuminate (the code will be stored as a fault).
- Other related trouble codes may also be present (e.g., vehicle speed sensor or ABS malfunction).
- Malfunction of the speedometer.
- Accidental activation of ABS or traction control system (TCS).
- Irregular gear shifting.
- ABS codes may be stored.
- ABS system may be disabled.
Conditions contributing to code P215A can lead to ABS deactivation or erratic gear shifting. The code should be considered serious and eliminated as soon as possible.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P215A can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Excessive amount of metal debris on wheel speed sensor magnet surface.
- Defective wheel speed sensor.
- Defective car speed sensor.
- Broken or damaged wiring and sensor connectors.
- Broken, damaged or worn ring gear teeth.
- Defective PCM module.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P215A
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P215A:
- Read all stored data and error codes with an OBD-II scan tool.
- Clear the error codes from the computer memory.
- Test-drive the vehicle to see if fault P215A appears again.
- Visually inspect the wires and connectors to the wheel speed and vehicle speed sensors.
- Test the sensors themselves.
- Inspect the ring gear teeth for cracks or other damage.
- If the error persists, check the PCM module.
Diagnose and repair of problems
Use the scan tool to retrieve and record all trouble codes, then clear them and test drive the vehicle. After the test drive, reconnect the scan tool and check if code P215A has returned.
Codes that do not return are usually called intermittent codes and are often more difficult to diagnose.
Any diagnosis begins with a visual inspection of the relevant components, connectors and electrical circuits. Items that are corroded, damaged or simply disconnected should be repaired before continuing with the diagnosis.
Make sure that the vehicle battery is fully charged and that cable connections are corrosion-free and secure. Low battery voltage will distort the real-time test data and make a proper diagnosis nearly impossible.
Checking the sensors
Set the meter to “Ohm” and disconnect the sensor under test from the connector. Use the test leads to test the connector pins and compare the results to the sensor test specifications. Sensors that do not meet the specifications should be considered faulty.
If none of the sensors being tested reflect the appropriate degree of measurement of the values described in the specifications, you may assume that the sensor is defective. If there is an acceptable signal on the sensor connector that is not on the controller connector, then there is an open circuit between the controller and the sensor under test.
It is possible to assume a controller malfunction or programming error only after all other options for finding fault P215A have been exhausted.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P215A can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Ford
- Isuzu
- Volvo
Fault code P215A can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P0500, P0501, P0502, P0503, C0031, C0034, C0037, C003A, C003D.
