How to Change the Speed Sensor in a Windstar
by Cayden ConorThe vehicle speed sensor in the Ford Windstar is located in the transmission. It uses a magnetic pick-up to send an AC voltage signal garnered from the rotation of the output shaft to the computer. The signal determines the corresponding vehicle speed. You can test the VSS with a scan tool or with a digital volt-ohmmeter (DVOM). Resistance should range between 190 and 250 ohms if the sensor is good.
Step 1
Jack up the front of the Windstar using the floor jack if you cannot see the vehicle speed sensor on the top of the transmission through the engine compartment. Support the vehicle with jack stands. Roll under the vehicle on the creeper.
Step 2
Unplug the vehicle speed sensor's wiring harness, which is located on the transmission. Depending on the year of the Windstar, the sensor may be screwed in or held in with a bolt. Unscrew it with a wrench, or remove the bolt to remove the speed sensor.
Step 3
Tighten the new speed sensor firmly in place with a wrench if it is the screw-in type. Tighten the bolt firmly if it is bolted on. Plug the wiring harness into the speed sensor. Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle if you had jacked it up to reach the speed sensor.
Things You'll Need
- Floor jack
- Jack stands
- Creeper
- Set of wrenches
Writer Bio
Cayden Conor has been writing since 1996. She has been published on several websites and in the winter 1996 issue of "QECE." Conor specializes in home and garden, dogs, legal, automotive and business subjects, with years of hands-on experience in these areas. She has an Associate of Science (paralegal) from Manchester Community College and studied computer science, criminology and education at University of Tampa.
