Engine

P2223 — Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor 'B' Circuit High

Severity: medium Drive with care, to a shop

What P2223 means

The engine control module monitors the signal voltage from the throttle or accelerator pedal position sensor, circuit 'B'. That voltage normally rises smoothly within set limits as the pedal moves. P2223 sets when the signal stays above the allowed range, usually from an open ground, a signal wire shorted to power, or a faulty sensor.

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Reduced power or limp mode
  • Unstable or high idle speed
  • Sluggish or jerky throttle response
  • Stalling or hard starting
  • Cruise control not working

Possible causes

  1. Faulty pedal or throttle position sensor
  2. Open ground or reference wire at the sensor
  3. Signal wire shorted to power
  4. Corroded or damaged connector terminals
  5. Dirty or failing electronic throttle body
  6. Faulty ECM (rare)

How to diagnose

  1. Scan for codes and freeze frame data, and note any other pedal or throttle codes
  2. Inspect the sensor connector and harness for corrosion or damage
  3. Compare the sensor channels in live data while slowly pressing the pedal
  4. Use a multimeter to check the 5 V reference and ground at the connector
  5. Test the signal wire for a short to power and for continuity to the ECM
  6. Check the throttle plate for deposits and free movement
  7. Replace the sensor or throttle assembly and perform the throttle relearn

Common fixes

  • Repair or replace the damaged wiring or connector
  • Replace the accelerator pedal position sensor
  • Replace the throttle body and run the relearn procedure
  • Clean the throttle body
  • Repair or replace the ECM after confirming the fault

Questions and answers

What does P2223 mean?

The ECM is getting too high a signal from the throttle or accelerator pedal position sensor in circuit 'B'. Wiring, a connector or the sensor itself is the usual culprit.

Can I drive with P2223?

Only in a limited way, and only to a shop. Power is often reduced and the pedal response may be unpredictable.

How do I clear P2223?

A scan tool can erase it, but it will return until the circuit or sensor fault is fixed. Find and repair the cause first.

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.