P0223
Stop drivingThe engine computer detects a higher-than-expected voltage signal from the 'B' circuit of your throttle position sensor (TPS) or accelerator pedal position sensor (APPS). This means the sensor is sending a signal that's too high, indicating a problem with the sensor, its wiring, or the throttle body itself.
Code P0223 means your engine computer sees a high voltage from the throttle position sensor 'B' circuit. Common causes: Faulty sensor (60%), wiring issues (30%), bad throttle body (8%). Drivability: No, stop driving. Repair cost: $50-$400 DIY, $150-$600 professional.
Can I Drive With P0223?
No, stop driving
Immediate repair needed
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, significant power loss, no throttle response, vehicle stalls
Symptoms of P0223
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Reduced engine power or 'limp mode'
- 3Erratic or high idle speed
- 4No throttle response when pressing the gas pedal
- 5Vehicle stalls or hesitates during acceleration
- 6Vehicle may not start
Common Causes of P0223
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The sensor itself is faulty, sending an incorrect high voltage signal to the engine computer.
60% of P0223 cases are fixed by replacing this sensor
A short to voltage, open circuit, or corrosion in the wiring or connector to the TPS/APPS can cause a high signal.
30% of P0223 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
If the TPS is integrated into the throttle body, a fault within the throttle body assembly can cause this code.
8% of P0223 cases are fixed by replacing the throttle body
A rare internal fault in the engine computer can cause it to misinterpret the sensor signal or send incorrect reference voltage.
2% of P0223 cases are fixed by replacing the ECM/PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Inspect the wiring harness and electrical connectors for the TPS/APPS for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Pay close attention to areas where wires might rub against engine components.
- Ensure your battery terminals are clean and tight, and the battery voltage is adequate. Low voltage can sometimes cause sensor communication issues.
How to Diagnose P0223
- 1Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors for the TPS/APPS for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion.
- 2Using a scan tool, monitor the TPS/APPS 'B' circuit voltage. It should change smoothly with pedal input and not show excessively high readings.
- 3With the ignition off, disconnect the TPS/APPS connector and check for proper reference voltage (typically 5V) and ground at the sensor connector using a multimeter.
- 4Test the resistance or voltage output of the TPS/APPS directly with a multimeter while manually moving the throttle plate or pedal.
- 5If the sensor and wiring check out, inspect the throttle body for mechanical issues or consider a faulty ECM/PCM as a last resort.
P0223 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2004-2024Many Ford F-150s use an integrated throttle position sensor within the electronic throttle body. A P0223 often points to a faulty throttle body assembly rather than a standalone sensor.
70% fixed by replacing the throttle body
Honda Accord
2003-2024While less common, P0223 on Honda Accords can sometimes be traced to a faulty accelerator pedal position sensor (APPS) rather than the throttle body sensor, especially if symptoms appear immediately upon pressing the pedal.
65% fixed by replacing the APPS
Toyota Camry
2007-2024Toyota Camry models can experience P0223 due to a failing throttle position sensor, which is often part of the throttle body assembly. Wiring integrity should always be checked thoroughly first.
60% fixed by replacing the TPS/throttle body
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0223 mean?
P0223 indicates that your vehicle's engine computer has detected a voltage signal from the 'B' circuit of the throttle position sensor (TPS) or accelerator pedal position sensor (APPS) that is higher than its normal operating range.
Can I drive with P0223?
No, stop driving. This code often puts your vehicle into 'limp mode' or causes a complete loss of throttle response, making it unsafe and unpredictable to drive. You risk an accident or being stranded.
Will P0223 clear itself?
No, P0223 will not clear itself. This code points to a hard fault in a critical sensor circuit. The underlying issue must be diagnosed and repaired before the code will clear, either by the vehicle's computer after several drive cycles or by using a scan tool.
How do I fix P0223 myself?
Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for the TPS/APPS for damage. If the wiring is good, test the TPS/APPS sensor with a multimeter. If it's faulty, replace the sensor. If the sensor is integrated into the throttle body, you may need to replace the entire throttle body assembly.
How much does it cost to fix P0223?
DIY repair costs range from $50-$400, primarily for a new TPS/APPS sensor or a complete throttle body. Professional repair costs typically range from $150-$600, covering diagnosis, parts, and labor.
P0223 keeps coming back - why?
If P0223 keeps returning, it indicates the root cause was not fully addressed. This often happens if you only replaced the sensor but the issue was actually in the wiring, the connector, or a faulty throttle body. A rare possibility is a failing engine computer.
Will P0223 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0223 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light will be on, and the vehicle's emissions monitors will not be ready, which are automatic failures in most inspection programs.
What's the difference between P0223 and P0123?
P0223 refers to a high input signal from the 'B' circuit of the throttle position sensor (TPS) or accelerator pedal position sensor (APPS). P0123 refers to a high input signal from the 'A' circuit of the same sensor. Both indicate a problem with the sensor or its circuit, but on different internal circuits.
P0223 on Ford F-150?
On many Ford F-150 models, especially those with electronic throttle control, the throttle position sensor is integrated into the throttle body. If you get P0223, it's common to replace the entire throttle body assembly to resolve the issue, as the sensor is not separately serviceable.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the reference voltage and ground at the TPS/APPS connector?
Good answer: Yes, I confirmed 5 volts reference and a solid ground at the sensor connector. The issue is not with the power supply to the sensor.
What were the live data readings for the TPS/APPS 'B' circuit voltage?
Good answer: The live data showed the 'B' circuit voltage was stuck high at X volts, even with the pedal released, confirming the sensor or its circuit is faulty.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$400
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$600
Save $100-$200 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-3 hours
Intermediate - requires a multimeter and an OBD-II scan tool to accurately diagnose the sensor and wiring. Replacing the sensor or throttle body is generally straightforward with basic hand tools.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0223 is a safety hazard. Your vehicle can suddenly lose power or become unresponsive to the gas pedal, leading to dangerous driving conditions or leaving you stranded. There is no direct engine damage from waiting, but the safety risk is critical.
While You're In There...
If you are removing the throttle body to replace an integrated sensor or inspect it, cleaning carbon buildup can improve idle quality and throttle response.
If you are accessing the throttle body, you often remove the air intake tube. It's a good time to check and replace a dirty air filter, which impacts engine performance.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool
- Multimeter
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers)
- Wire strippers/crimpers (if wiring repair is needed)
P0223 is a critical code that affects drivability and safety, but it's a common sensor issue. Once diagnosed and repaired, your vehicle's throttle response and performance will be fully restored.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Visually inspect the wiring and connectors for the TPS/APPS. Look for frayed wires, corrosion, or loose pins. Repair any damage found.
Step 2: Use an OBD-II scan tool to monitor the live data for the TPS/APPS 'B' circuit voltage. If it's stuck high or erratic, proceed to test the sensor directly.
Step 3: If the sensor tests faulty, or if it's integrated into the throttle body and the throttle body is suspected, you'll likely need to replace the Throttle Position Sensor or the entire Throttle Body Assembly.