Vehicle Speed Sensor Range/Performance
Got out of my searching that this could be the sensor (location?) or the wiring. Could this also be the cause or effect of none of my gauges/dashlights working?
'01 1.8tqm
TIA

 

Did you ever find out if the VSS (Vehicle Speed Sensor) was your problem? I have the same issue with my 04 Audi TT and I got the code P0501. My speedo suddenly jumped all over the place and then completely stopped working. In the old days I would have guessed a Speedo cable bu now it is more like and electronic sensor.
If it was the VSS how much did it cost you to replace it?

 

I just dealt with this problem. Before thinking I got under my car to look for the speedo cable because the one in my RX7 came off once LOL.
Since the forum helped me troubleshoot a bit in finding out what was causing my CEL and malfunctioning speedometer I am giving back. I hope a future search finds these results.

http://www.google.com/products?q=aud...speed%20sensor
$35-$45 at many different places on the internets.
The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) is mounted on the transaxle. The sensor is triggered by a toothed rotor on the transaxle output shaft. As the output shaft rotates, the sensor produces a fluctuating voltage, the frequency of which is proportional to the vehicle speed. The Engine Control Module (ECM) uses the sensor input signal for several different engine and transmission control functions. The VSS signal also drives the speedometer on the instrument panel. A defective VSS can cause various driveability and transaxle problems...

1. Raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands.
2. Disconnect the electrical connector from the VSS.
3. Remove mounting bolt and withdraw the VSS from the transaxle case.
4. Replace the sensor O-ring (check to see if the sensor you buy from the internets i.e. 'series of tubes' has one with it, if not call up the stealership and pay a nominal fee)
5. Installation is the reverse of removal
-Haynes 95-99' Passat/A4 repair manual