P0227 OBD-II Trouble Code: Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch C Circuit Low Input

P0227 code definition

Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch C Circuit Low Input

What the P0227 code means

P0227 is a generic OBD-II code indicating that the throttle/pedal position sensor/switch C circuit has a low input problem causing the sensor input to the engine control module (ECM) to be lower than the expected voltage input compared to the redundant throttle position sensor A .

What causes the P0227 code?

• The ECM detects the sensor circuit voltage below the specified range for the sensor
• Short to ground in the signal cable causing low voltage to the ECM
• Open circuit in the signal cable from a break in the wire, or corrosion in connections

What are the symptoms of the P0227 code?

• Check Engine Light and Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light will be illuminated
• The throttle shuts completely during stops
• The throttle sets to a fixed position during acceleration failure
• Uneven idle or jerking during braking due to the closed throttle position
• Acceleration is limited by very poor throttle response, or no response at all, during acceleration
• Vehicle speed limited to 32 mph or less

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0227 code?

• Scans codes and documents the freeze frame data in order to verify the problem

• Clears the engine and ETC codes to verify whether the concern comes back

• Does a visual check of the wiring and connections to the throttle body sensors to see if they are broken or cut in any way

• Disconnects connection to the sensors and checks for corrosion or problems with pin engagement

• Checks scan data to see if sensor signal voltage is open, and follows pinpoint testing steps to find the open circuit

• Checks and verifies the sensor resistance, and compares it to vehicle specifications

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0227 code?

Follow these simple guidelines to prevent misdiagnosis:

• Do a visual check of connections to the sensor to make sure they are making good contact to the throttle control assembly

• Look for any problems with burnt or cut wiring to the sensor, or corrosion in the connections.

How serious is the P0227 code?

• Any problems with the throttle sensor can cause the limp mode to be activated
• The engine will go into limp home mode and systems will be limited
• The vehicle speed will be limited to less than 35 mph
• The engine will lack acceleration or have limited acceleration
• The engine idle will be low and erratic when coming to a stop

What repairs can fix the P0227 code?

• Repairing or replacing a defective connector or wiring to the sensor if it is corroded or has connector damage

• Repairing cuts or shorts in the wiring to the sensor

• Replacing the throttle body control assembly if defective

• Replacing or reprogramming the ECM if directed by the pinpoint tests

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0227 code

The code P0227 is triggered when the signal getting to the ECM is lower than specified. This can be due to corrosion or loose connections at the sensor. Cleaning the connector and using a dielectric compound to help stop any corrosion from returning is recommended.

Need help with a P0227 code?

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