P0220

Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch B Circuit

Throttle & pedal position Generic OBD-II High

What it means

P0220 means the ECM has seen a fault in the "B" circuit of the throttle or accelerator-pedal position sensor — the backup signal that confirms how far the throttle or pedal is open. Because this feeds the electronic throttle system, a fault often forces reduced-power mode with sluggish or erratic throttle response until it is repaired.

High

Can I keep driving? Often drivable but risky — the ECM may drop into reduced-power (limp) mode with poor throttle response, so repair promptly.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

927

scans in the past year

Found in

0.1%

of scans

0.3%

of scans that found faults

Appears alongside · share of P0220 scans

P0120in 83.9% of scans

P0226in 28.5% of scans

P0657in 26.8% of scans

Figures reflect only diagnostic scans recorded through our own apps and tools. Cars are typically scanned because a symptom or warning light prompted it, so these counts describe our scan records — not the incidence of faults in any model, and not the quality, reliability, or safety of any vehicle. No comparison between manufacturers or models is implied. All trademarks belong to their respective owners; no affiliation or endorsement is implied.

Common symptoms

What you'll notice

Check-engine light on
Reduced engine power or a 'limp mode' with limited throttle response
Hesitation, surging, or erratic idle
Poor or unpredictable acceleration

Common causes

Most likely first

Damaged, corroded, or loose connector at the throttle body or accelerator-pedal sensorLikely
Failed throttle position or accelerator-pedal position sensor (the 'B' signal)Common
Chafed or shorted wiring between the sensor and the ECMCommon
Faulty engine control module (ECM) — least commonLess often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Read freeze-frame data and inspect the sensor connector for bent pins, corrosion, or looseness.
Check the signal, reference (5V), and ground wires for shorts, opens, and voltage with a meter.
Test the throttle/pedal position sensor against spec; replace the sensor if out of range.
If wiring and sensor are good, have the ECM diagnosed. Clear and re-test.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0220?+

Only cautiously and briefly. Electronic-throttle faults can trigger reduced-power mode or sudden hesitation, so get it fixed before relying on the car.

Can I just clear P0220?+

It will clear, but returns as soon as the circuit fault is seen again. Fix the connector, wiring, or sensor first.

Read & clear P0220 yourself

Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.

▶ Get it on Google Play

✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX