P0501 is an OBD2 trouble code that indicates there is an issue with your Subaru Liberty’s Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS). It occurs when the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) gets a signal from the VSS outside its normal operating range (in terms of voltage).
P0501 is a generic powertrain code, which means it has the same definition for the Subaru Liberty as all vehicles made after the 1996 model year.
Note: If you have gotten P0501 right after changing your Liberty’s tire size, it’s likely the PCM needs to be recalibrated for the change in size.
P0501 Definition: VSS – Range/Performance
P0501 is a pretty easy code to understand. Here are both parts of its definition for the Subaru Liberty:
Vehicle Speed Sensor
The VSS has two main functions.
- The first is to provide data to the speedometer. It’s not uncommon for the speedometer to be erratic or unmoving when a vehicle has P0501.
- The second function of the VSS is to provide speed data to the PCM. The PCM needs to know how fast your Liberty is moving to support many vital functions. The traction control system, cruise control, ABS, and even transmission shift points all need VSS data to work.
The VSS can be located on the transmission tail shaft, around the wheel hub, or (on older models) be integrated with a mechanical speedometer. Where it’ll be located on your vehicle will depend on the make, model year, and transmission type.
Range/Performance
The signal coming from the VSS is not within its normal operating range. The voltage could be erratic, too high, or too low.
Subaru Liberty: P0501 Symptoms
Here are the most common symptoms of P0501:
- Check engine light
- Limp mode
- Erratic shifting (likely shifting too early)
- ABS light
- Traction control light
- Speedometer not working properly
If the ABS and traction control lights are on, and P0501 is the only code stored in your PCM’s memory, fixing the code’s cause should turn them off.
Subaru Liberty: P0501 Causes and Diagnosis
Here are the most common causes of P0501 in the Subaru Liberty and a good order to check them in. The exact repair steps will depend on the transmission and model year of your vehicle.
1. Check For Other Codes
The first thing you should do is document all trouble codes and data before touching anything.
It’s likely another code may shed more light on what’s going on. If the VSS voltage is too low, you may also get P0502. If it is too high, you’re likely to see P0503. That’s a good starting point.
2. Inspect the VSS Wiring
Next, locate your Liberty’s VSS and inspect the wiring harness going to it. You are looking for broken, or frayed wiring. Wiring issues are a very common cause of P0501. If any wiring looks bad, repair it and clear the code.
3. Check the Sensor Voltage
Check the voltage at the VSS sensor. If it is within factory specs, it’s likely that the VSS sensor has gone bad and needs to be replaced.
Conclusion
The good news with P0501 in the Subaru Liberty is that there aren’t many common causes. Replacing the VSS is far and away the most common fix. Good luck repairing your vehicle!