OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic)
P0221 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch "B" Range/Performance
The B channel of the throttle or pedal position sensor reports values that do not correlate with the A channel or with engine load. Often caused by mechanical wear in the resistive track or by a sticking pedal/throttle plate.
Is it safe to drive with P0221?
The car may go into limp mode (reduced power). Get it diagnosed before a long trip.
Common causes
- Most likelyResistive track worn
- PossibleThrottle plate sticking
- Less likelySensor element aged beyond calibration window
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Reduced throttle response, possible limp mode
- Hesitation or surging
- Idle too high or too low
Repair at a glance
- Difficulty
- Medium
- DIY friendly
- Often, with basic tools
- Typical labour
- 0.3–2.5 h
- Emissions test
- Likely to fail
- Parts involved
- Throttle Position Sensor B, Throttle Body
Related codes
- P0220Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch "B" Circuit
- P021ECylinder 11 Injection Timing
- P021FCylinder 12 Injection Timing
- P0222Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch "B" Circuit Low Input
- P0223Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch "B" Circuit High Input
- P0224Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch B Circuit Intermittent
Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.