90_4x4

I have a 1990 4runner v6 automatic, my speedometer and odometer aren't working. I also have a VSS code my question is, If I replace the speedometer cable theoretically it should make my cluster work again correct? What the hell is the VSS for? The speedometer I found is from a 1995 and I have a 1990 are they interchangable?

tj884Rdlx

not all these trucks use just a cable. some have a "variable speed sensor" on the tranny. sounds like your truck is telling you it wants a new one. sends info to the computer.

check the FSM and troubleshoot it. the FSM is available online if you need one.

BMcEL

My '90 pickup has a cable so I'm assuming your 4runner does too, and the VSS is in the gauge cluster. The VSS code is due to the cable not turning. I got a replacement cable at my local dealership for about $115 if I remember correctly.

90_4x4

So where is the VSS, someone said in the tranny then someone else said its in the gauge cluster???

BMcEL

See page 5:

http://personal.utulsa.edu/~nathan-buchanan/93fsm/bodyelectrical/6combinat.pdf

90_4x4

Thanks I'll take a look tomorrow if it's a little less frozen lol

tj884Rdlx

here's a link to the troubleshooting page in the online FSM for the A340e. it illustrates two VSS, one at the cluster, one at the trans. on pg. AT1-30.
http://ncttora.com/fsm/1990-1995_4Rn...1/troubles.pdf
of course, confirm your tranny model first.

BMcEL

That's true (OP has an A340H if it's 4x4), but speed sensor #1 is directly affected by the speedometer cable and is almost certainly the one throwing a code since the cable snapped. While it's possible speed sensor #2 may have failed (or #1 for that matter), it's not likely.

bob200587

Ambiguous thread title much?

scuba

I think you mean Vehicle speed sensor.

BMcEL

I've always heard vehicle speed sensor too but some OEMs do call it a variable speed sensor. The older Toyota documentation just calls it a speed sensor.

tj884Rdlx

hah! right on. this is why i love this site. people here KNOW THEIR STUFF!

alecbrobra

Yeah, ive got the same truck 90 4run 4x4 3vze. sounds like two issues, ive replaced speedo cable on mine, but never had sensor issue. cable was used from a 1992,... less than 20$@auto yard, works great! BEWARE!!!! this cable was a spot on match, still a very dirty, difficult, reach-around from every direction directly underneath the truck.
so after that you'll still have the code issue from VSS? I dont have any advice on how to fix that, but you might want to do it before you pull and replace the speedo cable.....I never had OBD codes show up for the broken cable.