What is P0221 fault code? What is the description for the Throttle/Pedal Position sensor/Switch B circuit range/Performance problem? How can I fix the P0221 fault? What are the symptoms and causes for the P0221 fault code
What is the P0221 fault code? What does it all mean?
The majority of computer-equipped engines include a throttle position sensor (TPS) that transmits data the powertrain control module. The throttle position sensor, which is a potentiometer, measures the throttle opening. The current location and speed of the vehicle affect the voltage signal from the sensor to its PCM. The resistance of the sensor is changed by pressing the accelerator pedal. This sends a voltage signal (indicating how far the throttle has been opened) to the PCM.
The throttle position sensor data is used by the PCM to adjust the fuel injection into the cylinders as well as the timing of the spark plugs. These data indirectly influence the performance and emission control of the exhaust system.
The PCM checks the voltage signal regularly to make sure that the throttle position sensor functions properly. If the PCM detects an abnormally high engine speed or throttle angle or a voltage signal from the sensor that is not within a reasonable range, P0221 will trigger. Most applications will only allow a 10% deviation to trigger this code. The code’s “B” label refers to a particular circuit or sensor. Check your vehicle’s service manual to determine which circuit is the “B”.
What causes the P0221 Fault code?
Here are some reasons why P0221 should be set:
- Defective throttle position sensor/switch
- – Sensor/switch for pedal position sensor/defective
- – Sensors with damaged, burned, or broken wires, or loose, rusty connections
- – Short circuit problems in wiring or connectors to sensors
- – The throttle plate is not moving because of carbon deposits in the throttle body
- – Worn throttle body with defects
- – A misaligned throttle position sensor or accelerator pedal
- – Defective PCM (rarely)
What are the symptoms of the P0221 Fault Code?
These symptoms may be present if you own a vehicle that has the code “P0221”.
- – Illumination at the check engine lights
- – Engine shaking and hesitation when you accelerate
- – Low engine performance
- Engine stalling
- – Engine may not start but it starts
- – The engine could run hard
- – The accelerator pedal might not respond
- – Variations in engine speed at idle
- Exhaust may produce black smoke
- PCM can limit vehicle speed through failsafe mode
How do I fix the P0221 fault code?
The following repairs may be able to resolve the P0221 fault code:
- – Replacing your throttle position sensor
- – Replacing the accelerator pedal position sensor
- – Replacing your throttle body
- – Replacement or repair of the wiring in the throttle electrical circuit
- Repair of damaged wires and connectors to the throttle/pedal position sensor
- – Reajust the throttle position sensor or accelerator pedal sensor to the correct position
- – Reprogramming or replacing the PCM
The voltage signal should be close to zero when the throttle plate has been closed. At idle, the voltage signal should be 0.5 Volts. Full throttle is 4.5 Volts.
Regularly having your throttle body cleaned and checked is a good idea. Regular maintenance helps prevent damage to cable and connectors and detect potential problems early.
How serious is the P0221 Fault code?
Code P0221 can cause serious driving problems. Driving problems such as power loss, misfires and stalling can be irritating. Driving safety can also be at risk from such symptoms. The fault must be fixed quickly.
