2000 Escort Speedometer Sticking???

[tattooedvixen]

Hi I have a 2000 Ford Escort, and lately I have had this weird problem with my speedometer. So it works normally and then for no reason that I can see it drops down to below zero and doesn't work? And then it jumps back up to the speed that I am at. It used to happen like once in a blue moon, but lately it has been happening almost everyday, so I am starting to get worried. I almost own this car so I would really hate for something horribly wrong to happen once I own the thing. If anyone has any ideas on why this is happening &/ or how I can fix it, I would apprecaite any help possible.
Thanks, Monique

[Davescort97]

The speedometer doesn't have a cable like earlier models. The speedometer is electrically operated from the VSS (vehicle speed sensor). The VSS sits on top of the transmission towards the driver side of the vehicle. There is a wiring harness to the VSS. You have to remove the battery and tray to get to it. Either the VSS or wiring harness to it is at fault. More than likely just a bad connection. Get in there and move those wires around.

There is a ground wire inside the speedometer housing. When it goes bad the speedometer will drop to 0. Others have fixed their problem by relocating the ground wire to a new source.

I'll bet you can take it to the dealer and get it fixed the first time for less than you are shelling out for a car payment. It's always more economical to fix car problems rather than trading it in. This is something I"m sure they have seen many times. They'll know what to do. Take it to the dealer.

[tattooedvixen]

Thanks so mich for your reply. I don't exactly understand everything you said, but I'm sure my dad will. Thanks again.