P0220 OBD-II Trouble Code: Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch Circuit "B" Malfunction

P0220 trouble code definition

Throttle/pedal position sensor/switch circuit B malfunction.

What the P0220 code means

The P0220 code means that the vehicle’s powertrain control module has detected a voltage or resistance reading that is outside of specifications that were set by the manufacturer for this circuit.

What are the causes of the P0220 code?

• Loose or disconnected components of the throttle’s electrical system
• Damaged wiring or connectors associated with the throttle’s electrical system
• A malfunction within the throttle body
• A faulty throttle position sensor
• A faulty accelerator pedal position sensor
• An accelerator pedal or throttle position sensor that is out of alignment
• A faulty powertrain control module

What are the symptoms of the P0220 code?

• Poor acceleration
• Hesitation or stalling
• Engine will not start
• Engine may run rough
• A Check Engine Light

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0220 code?

• A mechanic may diagnose the P0220 code by first inspecting the throttle body and the accelerator pedal for any wiring that may be damaged or disconnected.

• The mechanic would also check to ensure that all sensors appear to be in alignment and installed properly. If any issues were found during this inspection, the mechanic would need to resolve them before continuing this diagnosis.

• If all of this criteria has been met, the mechanic would then test the throttle position sensor and the pedal position sensor for proper function. If either of these two sensors test bad, the replacement of the sensor would likely resolve this issue.

• If the sensors proved to be functional, the problem may be within the powertrain control module.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0220 code

A common mistake when diagnosing the P0220 would be to replace the throttle position sensor, the pedal position sensor, or both since these parts are mentioned in the actual definition. This can often times lead to a misdiagnosis. Just because a part is mentioned in a trouble code definition does not mean that that is the part causing the problem.

How serious is the P0220 code?

The P0220 code is moderately serious. The symptoms that could be associated with this code could be quite an annoyance to the driver. A vehicle that does not accelerate well is not very valuable to the owner. This may convince the owner to fix the problem more quickly than if it had a problem of less significance.

What repairs can fix the P0220 code?

• Replacing the throttle position sensor
• Replacing the accelerator pedal position sensor
• Replacing the throttle body
• Replacing the powertrain control module
• Repairing or replacing wiring that is associated with the throttle’s electrical system
• Realigning the throttle position sensor or accelerator position sensor to its correct position.

Additional comments regarding the P0220 code?

It is a good idea to inspect and clean the throttle body on your vehicle regularly. This service should be done at least once or twice a year and is fairly easy to do on most vehicles. If the throttle body has been maintained regularly it is unlikely that a loose or disconnected wiring harness would go unnoticed for long. Keeping up on throttle body cleanings may help to prevent a P0220 code.

Need help with a P0220 code?

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