P0297 - OBD Trouble Code

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P0297 code is generated when the maximum calibration limit is exceeded. If the speed sensors of the vehicle or wheel provides the PCM or some other controller with a signal that exceeds the maximum calibration limit, the error code P0297 is generated.

When the error code P0297 is stored, usually a service engine soon lamp may get illuminated. In some models, multiple failure cycles are required for the service engine soon lamp to be illuminated.

There are a few reasons the error code P0297 may be generated. Below is a list of a few reasons you might be facing the error code and also a possible diagnosis as to what might help you get rid of the error code and optimize the performance of your vehicle.

1. Speed Sensor - Engine sensors and switches send the signal to the PCM or other controllers that generate the error code P0297. The speed sensors can be replaced at quite affordable prices at the online auto parts store. You can choose the brand you trust the most at the prices that fit your bill perfectly.
2. Wheel Speed Sensors - Wheel speed sensors are a kind of tachometer which send the signal to the controllers in case the wheel’s rotation speed is not in the prescribed limit. In case the wheel speed sensors are not working properly, the signal might not get transferred to the controllers which might lead to problems with the gear shifting during transmission. Problems with wheel speed sensors might cause problems while driving the vehicle and to avoid any hindrances later, it might be imperative to change the wheel speed sensors in case the error code P0297 is appearing.
3. Lamp - The service engine soon lamp is provided in the vehicles to indicate a possible issue with the exhaust or emission system of your vehicle. When the error code P0297 is generated, the service engine soon lamp gets illuminated. It might be that the lamp itself is the problem which is why the error code is being generated. In this case, you might wish to check the wiring to the lamp or replace the service engine soon lamp itself.
4. Vehicle Speed Sensor - The Vehicle over speed control system is used for monitoring the speed of the vehicle. This system is provided to slow down the speed of the vehicle to optimum levels or the prescribed limits of speed by using the proximity and wireless sensors. Thus, it is extremely important to replace the Vehicle over speed control system the moment there’s even the slightest issue detected in the same. In case the error code P0297 is generated, this must be one of the first sensors checked to make sure an essential part is in perfect working condition.

Due to issues with the speed sensors, the vehicle might not be able to control the speed to the programmed limits and hence the speed sensors might send signals to the controllers that generate the error code P0297. But there are some symptoms that you might notice that can help diagnose the pain points that might be causing the error code to occur. Following is a list of a few symptoms that will help you prevent problems and nip them in the bud.

Although most commonly, the error code P0297 does not show any symptom which makes it more dangerous and thus imperative to keep a look out for this error code before the problems with the speed control become severe. However, there might still be some symptoms anyway.

Common Symptoms

• There might be error codes generated such as other transmission control codes
• Irregularities in transmission shifting
• Antilock Brake System (ABS) codes

Have a look at some ways with which you can correct the P0297 code:

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To diagnose the P0297 error code, the mechanic might connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s computer. On reading the codes stored there, he or she will clear the codes and take the vehicle for a test drive to determine if they will reset. If the error code gets reset, the most probable reason could be that the driver is operating the vehicle at the speeds that exceeds the preset speed limitations set by the automaker. But if the code is getting reset at normal speeds too, then further diagnosis will be required.

• A computerized fuel disabling system is usually utilized in most late model vehicles. This system is activated when the vehicle’s speed reaches a predetermined limit.
• This system’s activation when speed reaches levels beyond advisable, is a feature that is primarily used for safety reasons and to be in accordance with federal mandates. This condition often occurs due to driver error, there is very little to go on with as a diagnostic strategy. For the successful diagnosis of this code-storing condition, a scanner (or code reader) and a digital voltmeter/ohmmeter comes handy.
• It is necessary to get the damaged, disconnected, shorted, or corroded wiring, connectors, and components, repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
• Once the repairs or replacements have been done, it is advisable to conduct a retesting of the system, to ensure the error has been successfully eliminated. If you find all the system wiring, connectors, and components (including fuses) appear to be working normally, you can connect the scanner (or code reader) to the diagnostic connector and record all the stored codes and, once done, freeze the frame data.
• This data is very helpful in diagnosing the intermittent conditions that might have lead to the error code being generated.
• Once the codes have been cleared, take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns.
• If the code doesn’t immediately return, there might be an intermittent condition being present.
• The problem with intermittent conditions is that it is hard to diagnose them. In extreme cases, the intermittent conditions are allowed to worsen before they can be diagnosed correctly. Clear all the codes and then take your vehicle for a test drive to make sure that the error code doesn’t return.
• If the error code doesn’t reset, it was probably the driver error that caused the error code to be generated. If, however, the code does return, you’ll need to observe the vehicle speed sensor (using the scanner) signal.
• If the speed sensor data gives erratic values or it doesn’t change as the conditions are changed, you’ll need to replace the sensor and retest the system. If the sensor appears to be normal, you’ll need to visually inspect all the vehicle speed circuits and electrical connectors.
• The wiring, connectors, or components that are found damaged, corroded or disconnected, need to be repaired or replaced. Once this is done, the system needs to be retested.
• If the problem persists, you can disconnect the electrical connector from the PCM and conduct a resistance and continuity test on the vehicle speed and the wheel speed system circuits between the sensors and the control modules.
• As required, you should repair or replace the shortened or open circuits. If on checking, all the system circuits and sensors appear to be in normal working condition, the PCM or some other system controller might be at fault.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0297 Code

One of the most common mistakes one can make is replacing the vehicle speed sensor without completely diagnosing the problem. One of the most common causes of the error code P0297 is that the driver has been driving the vehicle too fast. In these cases, despite the error code, there is actually no electrical problems or problems with sensor failure. In these cases, replacing the sensors will not solve any problem and the code will again reset the next time the vehicle is driven and the driver exceeds the speed limit that has been set by the automaker.