P2131

Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch F Circuit Range/Performance

Q: Is it safe to drive with P2131?

Short trips are usually possible, but the car may drop into reduced-power limp mode and throttle response can be unreliable. Because the throttle system is safety-related, have it checked soon.

Q: Can I just clear P2131?

You can, but it returns quickly if the sensor or its wiring is faulty. Fix the circuit or sensor first.

Throttle & pedal position Generic OBD-II Medium

What it means

P2131 means the ECM sees the "F" throttle or accelerator-pedal position sensor reading a value that doesn't match the expected range or the other position sensors. Because the throttle system is safety-critical, the car often drops into reduced-power limp mode. The usual causes are a failing position sensor or wiring and connector problems in its circuit.

Medium

Can I keep driving? Often triggers reduced power or a limp mode; you can usually drive gently, but throttle response may be poor, so get it checked soon.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

scans in the past year

Found in

<0.1%

of scans

<0.1%

of scans that found faults

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 power or limp mode
Poor or erratic throttle response
Possible hard starting or stalling

Common causes

Most likely first

Faulty throttle/pedal position sensor (sensor F)Likely
Open, shorted, or chafed wiring in the sensor circuitCommon
Poor or corroded connector at the sensorCommon
Accelerator pedal mechanically obstructed or sticking (e.g. a jammed floor mat)Less often
Carbon-filled throttle bore skewing a throttle-mounted sensorLess often
Faulty ECM (rare)Less often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Read freeze-frame data, then check the sensor connector for a steady 5-volt reference and good ground with the key on, engine off.
Inspect the wiring and connector for opens, shorts, and corrosion.
Verify the pedal or throttle moves freely and isn't obstructed.
Compare the sensor's sweep to a known-good signal; replace the sensor if it reads out of range.
Clear the code and retest; suspect the ECM last.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P2131?+

Short trips are usually possible, but the car may drop into reduced-power limp mode and throttle response can be unreliable. Because the throttle system is safety-related, have it checked soon.

Can I just clear P2131?+

You can, but it returns quickly if the sensor or its wiring is faulty. Fix the circuit or sensor first.

Read & clear P2131 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