P0222
Stop drivingThe 'B' circuit for your throttle position sensor or accelerator pedal position sensor is sending a low voltage signal to your engine computer.
Code P0222 means the 'B' circuit for your throttle or accelerator pedal position sensor has a low voltage input. Common causes: APP sensor (40%), throttle body sensor (35%), wiring issues (20%). Drivability: No, stop driving. Repair cost: $100-$400 DIY, $250-$800 professional.
Can I Drive With P0222?
No, stop driving
Immediate repair needed
Stop driving immediately if: Any symptom of reduced power, no throttle response, or erratic idle.
Symptoms of P0222
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Reduced engine power (limp mode)
- 3No throttle response or very limited response
- 4Erratic or high idle speed
- 5Vehicle may not accelerate past a certain speed
- 6Vehicle may stall
Common Causes of P0222
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The sensor that tells the computer how much you're pressing the gas pedal has failed internally, sending a low voltage signal.
40% of P0222 cases are fixed by replacing the APP sensor
The sensor on the throttle body that monitors its position has failed, or the entire electronic throttle body is faulty, causing a low voltage reading.
35% of P0222 cases are fixed by replacing the throttle body
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring/connectors to either the APP sensor or the throttle body can interrupt the signal, causing a low voltage input.
20% of P0222 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
A rare internal fault within the engine's computer can incorrectly interpret or process the sensor's signal as low voltage.
5% of P0222 cases are fixed by replacing the PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the wiring harness leading to the accelerator pedal and the throttle body for any obvious damage, fraying, or loose connections.
- Check the electrical connectors at both the APP sensor and the throttle body for corrosion or bent pins. Disconnect and reconnect them to ensure a solid connection.
How to Diagnose P0222
- 1Connect an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0222 and check for other related codes.
- 2Use the scanner's live data function to monitor APP sensor and TPS 'B' circuit voltage readings while the engine is running and the pedal is pressed.
- 3Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors for the APP sensor and throttle body for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 4With the ignition off, use a multimeter to test for proper voltage supply and ground at the APP sensor and throttle body connectors.
- 5If wiring is good, test the resistance of the APP sensor and TPS (if accessible separately) according to service manual specifications.
- 6If the APP sensor or throttle body readings are consistently low or erratic, replace the suspected component.
P0222 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2004-2024Ford F-150s, particularly those with the 5.4L or 5.0L engines, frequently experience P0222 due to electronic throttle body failures. The internal motor or TPS within the throttle body can fail.
70% fixed by replacing throttle body or APP sensor
Chevrolet Silverado
2007-2024Chevy Silverados are known for issues with both the Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensor and the electronic throttle body. Wiring harness chafing near the throttle body or firewall can also trigger P0222.
65% fixed by replacing APP sensor or throttle body
Honda Accord
2003-2024Honda Accords can experience P0222 from a faulty Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensor. Less commonly, the electronic throttle body itself can fail, but the APP sensor is a more frequent cause.
75% fixed by replacing APP sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0222 mean?
P0222 indicates that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a low voltage signal from the 'B' circuit of either the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) or the Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor.
Can I drive with P0222?
No, stop driving. This code often puts your vehicle into 'limp mode' with severely reduced power or no throttle response, making it unsafe to operate.
Will P0222 clear itself?
No, P0222 will not clear itself. This code indicates a hard fault in a critical sensor circuit. The underlying issue must be diagnosed and repaired before the code will clear, either automatically after several drive cycles or by using an OBD-II scanner.
How do I fix P0222 myself?
Start by inspecting wiring and connectors for damage. If they are good, use an OBD-II scanner with live data to pinpoint if the APP sensor or the throttle body's TPS is sending the low voltage. Then, replace the faulty sensor or the entire throttle body if the TPS is integrated.
How much does it cost to fix P0222?
DIY repair costs range from $100 to $400 for parts like an APP sensor or a new throttle body. Professional repair costs typically range from $250 to $800, including parts and 1-2 hours of labor.
P0222 keeps coming back - why?
P0222 keeps coming back because the root cause was not fully addressed. This often means a faulty sensor was replaced, but the wiring issue was overlooked, or the wrong sensor was replaced. A rare cause is a failing PCM.
Will P0222 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0222 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light will be on, which is an automatic failure in most testing jurisdictions.
What's the difference between P0222 and P0221?
P0222 indicates a specific 'low input' voltage signal from the 'B' circuit, meaning the voltage is consistently below the expected minimum threshold. P0221 indicates a 'range/performance' issue for the 'B' circuit, meaning the signal is present but inconsistent, erratic, or outside the expected operating range.
P0222 on Ford F-150?
On Ford F-150s, P0222 is commonly caused by a failing electronic throttle body, especially on models with higher mileage. The Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensor is also a frequent culprit. Thorough diagnosis with live data is crucial to distinguish between the two.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the live data for both the APP sensor and the throttle position sensor 'B' circuit voltage while operating the pedal?
Good answer: Yes, I saw the APP sensor 'B' circuit voltage was stuck at 0.2V, even when pressing the pedal, indicating an internal sensor fault or wiring issue.
What were the voltage readings at the APP sensor and throttle body connectors?
Good answer: I confirmed proper 5V reference and ground at both connectors. The issue is definitely with the sensor's output, not the power supply.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$100-$400
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$250-$800
Save $150-$400 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate - requires an OBD-II scanner with live data capabilities and basic electrical diagnostic skills to accurately pinpoint the faulty component.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0222 means your vehicle is unsafe to drive due to unpredictable throttle response or limp mode. Continued driving can lead to dangerous situations on the road and potentially cause further damage to the engine or transmission if the vehicle stalls unexpectedly.
While You're In There...
If you're replacing the throttle body, a new gasket ensures a proper seal and prevents vacuum leaks, which can cause other engine issues.
Accessing the throttle body often involves removing air intake components. Replacing a dirty air filter at the same time is good preventative maintenance and ensures optimal airflow.
If you're working on the air intake system, cleaning the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor is a simple step that can improve engine performance and prevent future codes.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II scanner with live data
- Multimeter
- Basic socket set
- Screwdriver set
- Wire stripper/crimper (if repairing wiring)
P0222 is a common issue with drive-by-wire systems. While it's critical to fix, the repair usually involves replacing a sensor or the throttle body, and your vehicle will regain full, safe operation afterward.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Use an OBD-II scanner with live data to monitor the 'B' circuit voltage for both the Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensor and the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) while someone slowly presses the gas pedal. Identify which sensor's voltage is consistently low or not responding.
Step 2: If the APP sensor is the culprit, inspect its wiring and connector thoroughly. If wiring is good, replace the APP sensor. If the TPS (part of the throttle body) is the issue, inspect its wiring and connector. If wiring is good, replace the entire electronic throttle body.
Step 3: Parts you'll likely need: Either a new Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor or a new Electronic Throttle Body (which includes the TPS).