Well, I bought a '94 Accord EX a few days ago. It's an auto (commuter car), and just yesterday, the speedo needle started jumping all over the place, and after about 15 mins. of driving, just totally died. I called the dealership & said my speed sensor needs to be replaced. Does this sound right, or are there any other options I should check out?

 

Check both the speedo cable and the sensor.

 

It's usually the VSS but you can't rule out the wiring and the speedometer until you check it...

 

VSS?? does that stand for Variable Speed Sensor? srry, probly a dumb question.

 

V.S.S. stands for vehicle speed sensor. There is not a speedo cable on your car. The problem is the speed sensor is bad. This is very common on that year accord. I wouldn't check anything out. I would just replace it.

 

nice, thanx much for the online diagnostic. I got quoted 110 bucks from the dealership, should I just do that or see if I can find 1 cheaper (autozone or something)?

 

autozone i don't think would have something like that but you could check around, I would never put a non honda part on a honda of course.

 

okay, well, i'm headed down to pick up the sensor from Honda tomorrow, but like I said, I just got this car a few days ago, so have not yet had the chance to order a Helms manual for it. Should this sensor be simple enough to replace w/o having step by step instructions?

 

the sensor is pretty easy to change, once you find it... it is located on the top side of the transmission, near the firewall... look at the new sensor to get an idea of what you're looking for.

I suggest trying to find one from a junk yard also, as they will usually sell one for $30-$50. Ive changed numerous sensors in 90-93 accords (same setup as a 94 basically) with junk yard sensors and never had another problem with them.

A part like that cannot be found at autozone, its a Honda only part.

 

yeah, the new sensors are updated though. the new ones have a plastic top I think. if you go to the junkyard try and get a newer style.