P2161 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

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Wondering on how to diagnose the error code P2161? All you need is the Parts Avatar guide that’ll definitely help you solve the error code P2161. This OBD-II trouble code transmission may not shift properly is also known as a vehicle speed sensor "B" intermittent/erratic/high. The vehicle speed sensor plays the role of informing the engine control module (ECM) how fast the vehicle is going. The speedometer that displays the speed in miles per hour or kilometers per hour receives this information.

It should be noted that this information is shared with other vehicle systems including the transmission, ABS, traction control and power steering. Whenever an inconsistent or inaccurate reading is identified by the PCM, it sets the error code P2161.

What causes this problem with the Vehicle Speed Sensor B Intermittent?

• Excessive metal debris amassed on the speed sensor/s
• A damaged wheel speed or vehicle speed sensor
• Broken or defective wiring harnesses or connectors (specially around the speed sensors)
• Distorted teeth on a reflector ring
• Malfunctioning PCM, ABCM, or EBCM

1. Powertrain Control Module - A damaged PCM? Do you have any idea about the extent to which it can damage your system? A faulty powertrain control module brings along issues like a malfunction in the functioning of the entire engine, also the sparks and ignition timing from the spark plugs are controlled and received by the PCM. Tune into Parts Avatar if you want to get your error code fixed.
2. Engine Control Module - A fault in this essential unit can lead to a big loss. It not only triggers the error code P2161 but also problems like engine stalls and a rough idle. Now get your ECM changed or repaired with Parts Avatar. Tune in now!
3. Vehicle Speed Sensor - Erratic shifting? An inoperative cruise control? All this is caused due to your malfunctioning vehicle speed sensor. Tune into Parts Avatar if you want all these problems to end.
4. Speedometer - Observing strange squeaking noises? A check engine light flashing on? It could be due to a fault in the speedometer. Now get your speedometer delivered right at your doorstep with Parts Avatar. Tune in now!
5. Electrical Connectors - Loose or corroded electrical connectors? It can lead to a difficulty in starting the vehicle along with an electrical loss. Parts Avatar has just the right quality electrical connectors for you! Log in now!
6. ABS Reflector Ring - Having problems with the reluctor ring? Due to this your vehicle may refuse to start even after several tries. Mend or restore it now to avoid such problems and an error code P2161.
7. Transmission Parts - Faulty transmission parts? This can cause a leakage of the transmission fluid along with strange noises. All this can be troublesome. So we advise you to get your error code P2161 fixed right away with us.
8. Anti Lock Brake Lamp - Having problems with the anti lock brake lamp? This can illuminate the check engine light and ABS system warning light. Now you can get your error code fixed immediately by simply logging into Parts Avatar.
9. Traction Control Module - A distorted traction control module can end up being the chief host inviting the error code P2161 along with problems with TCS features. So replacing one can be one of the wisest decisions to avoid a problematic system.
10. Abs System Parts - Repair or replace your damaged ABS system right away to get rid of problems including the ABS features. Avoiding such repair can prove to be really costly as it may lead to big losses. So to avoid those repairs, change or repair your ABS system module now!

It is essential to know the symptoms of an issue as only then you would be able to solve the problem. So that’s why we have listed out some major symptoms of OBD Code P2161 here:

Common Symptoms

• Irregular or inconsistent speedometer/odometer operation
• Erratic transmission shift patterns
• The service engine soon lamp, traction control lamp or anti lock brake lamp illuminated
• Abrupt activation/deactivation of the traction control system (if installed)
• A number of transmission and ABS codes displayed
• The ABS system may fail to function at all

Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P2161

• Replace or repair the speed sensor B or 2 as soon as possible
• All the disconnected or short circuited return wiring or connectors should be changed or mended
• Replace or repair a malfunctioning sensor reluctor

There is no need to be anxious as Parts Avatar – Car Parts Online is here to help you out! We have high grade speedometer, transmission, connection, pcm, ecm, power steering, traction control, abs system, vehicle speed sensor, reflector ring and a lot more for our precious customers.

Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this fault code:

• A standardized OBD-II scanner (or code reader), a digital volt/ohmmeter, an oscilloscope should be used to perform an accurate diagnosis. Firstly, start with a visual inspection of all wiring and connectors installed in the system
• Replacements or repairs should be performed of all the defective, loose, shorted or corroded wirings, connectors, and electrical components if necessary
• Now that the repairs have been performed, it is always advised to retest the system to ensure accuracy. If all system wiring, connectors, and components (Including fuses) show up to be functioning in order, the scanner (or code reader) should be connected to the diagnostic connector to retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data
• It should be noted that, this information can be extremely essential and helpful while diagnosing intermittent conditions that might have added to this code being stored
• Next, the codes stored should be cleared and the system should retested to see if the code reappears. This will be helpful in determining that whether or not the malfunction is intermittent
• Again, the codes are should be cleared, and the vehicle should be test driven to see if the code reappears
• An intermittent condition should be suspected if the code fails to return. These intermittent conditions, at times, can prove to be quite challenging to diagnose and also in extreme cases may have to be allowed to worsen before a right diagnosis can be performed
• The scanner should be linked to observe the vehicle speed data while the vehicle is driven
• A vehicle speed sensor malfunction should be suspected, if vehicle speed data fails to increase with vehicle speed (also is erratic or seems incorrect)
• Now, if no inconsistencies are found, remove the vehicle speed sensor and check for the presence of metal particles from the transmission, differential, or hub bearing (be cautious while removing the sensor as some models may leak fluid after it is removed)
• All the metal shavings or particles should be removed if required. Repair or replace the sensor if it is broken or damaged
• Next, the vehicle speed sensor should be re-installed and the codes should be reset while the vehicle should be test driven
• In case, the code reappears, continue with the diagnostic procedure. Also, if the code does not return, then the condition might have been repaired by the removal of the metal fragments from the sensor
• It should be noted that, the code setting condition can also at times be intermittent. Now, if the code reappears, the voltage and ground at the vehicle speed sensor should be checked. The findings should be compared with the manufacturer’s specifications
• If you fail to find voltage and ground signal at the sensor, it is recommended to disconnect the sensor for checking the sensor resistance level. The results should be compared with the manufacturer’s specifications
• In case the readings fail to collate, the sensor should be replaced and the codes should be reset. Perform a test drive of the vehicle.
• Also, if no voltage and/or ground signal are identified at the vehicle speed sensor, disconnect the PCM connector to perform a resistance test on the system circuitry
• All the circuits that are shorted or open should be repaired as per the requirements. If the results match with manufacturer’s specifications, the oscilloscope should be used to observe the voltage wave patterns as they are being input to the PCM
• A disconnected or defective reluctor ring should be suspected if there are any disparities or abnormalities in the voltage waveform pattern
• Lastly, it is advised to inspect the reluctor ring by simply removing the vehicle speed sensor and using the opening as an access hole.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P2161 Code

Here we have listed for you all the common mistakes that should be avoided while diagnosing the error code P2161:

• A possible failure in the powertrain control module (PCM)
• A failure in the vehicle speed sensor
• Wiring issues in the system