Engine

P0226 — Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor C Circuit Range/Performance

Severity: medium Drive with care, to a shop

What P0226 means

The engine control module constantly compares the signals from the throttle and accelerator pedal position sensors with each other and with what it expects. P0226 sets when the circuit C signal falls outside the expected range or disagrees with the other sensors. The cause can be the sensor itself, wiring, an unstable 5V reference or ground, or rarely the control module.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light is on
  • Hesitant or delayed throttle response
  • Limp mode with limited power
  • Erratic idle or stalling
  • Poor acceleration

Possible causes

  1. Faulty throttle or pedal position sensor C
  2. Damaged wiring or corroded connectors in the sensor circuit
  3. Accelerator pedal position sensor problem
  4. Unstable 5V reference or poor ground
  5. Dirty or worn throttle body
  6. Internal ECM/PCM fault (rare)

How to diagnose

  1. Scan for all codes and freeze frame data, and note any other throttle or pedal codes
  2. Inspect the throttle and pedal harnesses and connectors for chafing, moisture, corrosion and loose pins
  3. Watch sensor data on a scan tool while slowly pressing the pedal; the signal should change smoothly without dropouts
  4. Use a multimeter to check the 5V reference and ground at the sensor connector
  5. Test the wires between the sensor and the ECM for opens and shorts
  6. Inspect and clean the throttle body and make sure the plate moves freely
  7. Compare the sensor readings with each other and replace the one that disagrees
  8. After repair, clear the code and perform a throttle relearn if the manufacturer requires it

Common fixes

  • Replace the throttle or pedal position sensor C (or the whole assembly)
  • Repair damaged wiring and clean or replace connectors
  • Correct the unstable 5V reference or poor ground
  • Clean the throttle body and perform a relearn
  • Reprogram or replace the ECM only if everything else checks out

Questions and answers

Can I drive with a P0226 code?

Only carefully and for a short distance, such as to a repair shop. The car may suddenly lose power or enter limp mode, so don't put the repair off.

What most often causes P0226?

Usually a failing throttle or pedal position sensor, or a wiring or connector problem. Check the 5V reference and ground before replacing parts.

Can I just clear the P0226 code?

You can, but it will return if the cause isn't fixed. Find the fault first, then clear the code.

This is general information about the code. The meaning can differ between makes and models: a scan tool and the repair manual for your car will show the exact cause.