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Site last updated on 15/08/08

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Vehicle Speed Sensors (VSS) - what they do and whether you need one:

   Pre MY96 Subaru’s generally run quite happily without a VSS, and post MY99 models generally all need a VSS. However, from MY96 - MY99 there does not seen to be a definitive rule. For these engines the best bet is to either fit one anyway, ‘try it and see’ if you like experimenting, and potentially saving a bit of money. Also see the table below which shows which ECU part numbers are definitely known to need a VSS and which are not. This list is far from complete - there are many more ECU’s out there. If you have info on one which you know does or does not need a VSS, please e-mail any info for inclusion. Also see Vehicle Speed Signal (info) for more details on the speed signal.

--> MY81 Vehicle Speed Sensor

  This sensor fits between the speedo cable and the speedo on all pre MY82 VW’s, which have the M18 x 1.5 threaded speedo cable. This includes all Beetles, Bays, Splitties and T25’s up to MY81.

   These fit the VW cable perfectly, with no modifications, unlike some similar sensors which screw on, but don’t fit properly (these are often designed for Ford / Vauxhall applications).

   The sensor adds 78mm between the speedo and cable, so your application must have enough room. The photo shows the sensor between the mechanism from a Bay speedo and it’s cable.

MY82 --> Vehicle Speed Sensor

   This sensor fits the speedo’s used from MY82 --> on all VW T25’s. Note - it fits in the location of the VW cruise control VSS, so can’t be used if you intend to have a go adapting VW cruise control to your Subaru engine (using Subaru cruise controlis still possible, and requires a VSS). The VW cruise control VSS is not compatible with Subaru ECU’s, as it uses a different type of sensor.
  The photo shows the MY82 --> VSS fitted to late model speedo. It also fits the earlier ones with the more rounded plastic casing, and takes up almost no space. It comes supplied with the wiring, connectors and screws shown (but not the speedo!).

VSS Wiring:

   If you have a wiring harness converted by RJES, then it will either have the power and signal wires identified and insulated for the VSS (standard harness), or will have the VSS wires extended to the front with a connector for the VSS to plug in to (with front extension harness option). If you order and already have an RJES front extension harness, be sure tpo let us know when ordering the VSS, and it will come with the matching connector already attached, ready to plug in.

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 Inventors of the Subaru - VW conversion bell housing using Subaru flywheel, clutch and starter

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