P0228
Fix within a few daysThe engine computer detects a voltage signal from the throttle position sensor (TPS) or accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor 'C' circuit that is too high, indicating a problem with the sensor or its wiring.
Code P0228 means the throttle position sensor's 'C' circuit has a high voltage signal. Common causes: Faulty TPS (60%), wiring issues (30%). Drivability: No, stop driving. Repair cost: $50-$200 DIY, $150-$500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0228?
No, stop driving
Immediate repair needed
Stop driving immediately if: Any erratic throttle behavior, vehicle entering limp mode, or stalling.
Symptoms of P0228
- 1Reduced engine power or 'limp mode'
- 2Erratic or high idle speed
- 3No throttle response or delayed response
- 4Check Engine Light is on
- 5Vehicle may stall
Common Causes of P0228
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The TPS is sending an incorrect, excessively high voltage signal to the engine computer.
60% of P0228 cases are fixed by replacing this part
A short to voltage in the TPS or APP sensor wiring, or a corroded/damaged connector, causes the high signal.
30% of P0228 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
If your vehicle uses an APP sensor for throttle control, it may be sending an excessively high voltage signal.
8% of P0228 cases are fixed by replacing this part
A rare internal fault within the PCM can cause it to misinterpret or incorrectly process the sensor signal.
2% of P0228 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the throttle body area, the TPS, and its electrical connector for any obvious damage, corrosion, or loose wires.
- Ensure the throttle plate moves freely without sticking or binding.
How to Diagnose P0228
- 1Visually inspect the throttle body, TPS, APP sensor, and all related wiring for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 2Using a scan tool, monitor the live data for the TPS 'C' circuit voltage; it should change smoothly with throttle input.
- 3With a multimeter, check the voltage at the TPS/APP sensor connector to ensure proper reference voltage and ground.
- 4Test the resistance of the TPS/APP sensor itself, comparing readings to factory specifications.
- 5Check for continuity and shorts to power or ground in the wiring harness between the sensor and the PCM.
P0228 on Popular Vehicles
Toyota Camry
2007-2024TPS failures are a common cause for P0228 on these models. The sensor can become erratic, leading to inconsistent throttle response.
65% fixed by replacing the TPS
Honda Accord
2003-2024P0228 on Honda Accord often indicates a failing TPS. Wiring issues are less common but should still be checked.
60% fixed by replacing the TPS
Ford F-150
2004-2024For the F-150, P0228 can be caused by either the TPS on the throttle body or the accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor. Diagnosis should include checking both.
70% fixed by replacing TPS or APP sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0228 mean?
P0228 indicates that your vehicle's engine computer has detected an abnormally high voltage signal from the 'C' circuit of the throttle position sensor (TPS) or accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor.
Can I drive with P0228?
No, stop driving. A P0228 code means your vehicle's throttle control is compromised. This can lead to unpredictable acceleration, sudden loss of power, or the vehicle entering 'limp mode,' making it unsafe to drive.
Will P0228 clear itself?
No, P0228 will not clear itself. This code points to a hard fault with a sensor or wiring that requires diagnosis and repair. The Check Engine Light will remain on until the underlying issue is resolved.
How do I fix P0228 myself?
Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for the throttle position sensor or accelerator pedal position sensor. If they look good, use a multimeter to test the sensor's voltage output and resistance. If the sensor is faulty, replacing the TPS or APP sensor is a common DIY fix.
How much does it cost to fix P0228?
The cost to fix P0228 ranges from $50-$200 for DIY, primarily for the part. Professional repair costs typically range from $150-$500, including parts and labor.
P0228 keeps coming back - why?
If P0228 keeps returning, it often means the initial diagnosis missed something. Common reasons include a faulty wiring harness that wasn't fully inspected, a poor connection at the sensor or PCM, or a rare issue with the PCM itself.
Will P0228 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0228 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure in most jurisdictions, and a fault with the throttle position sensor directly impacts engine control and emissions.
What's the difference between P0228 and P0227?
P0228 indicates a 'high input' signal from the throttle/pedal position sensor 'C' circuit, meaning the voltage is too high. P0227 indicates a 'low input' signal from the same 'C' circuit, meaning the voltage is too low. Both point to a problem with the sensor or its circuit, but in opposite directions.
P0228 on Ford F-150?
On a Ford F-150, P0228 commonly points to a faulty throttle position sensor (TPS) or accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor. These sensors can wear out over time, leading to erratic throttle response or limp mode. Inspecting the wiring and testing the sensor are the first steps.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the live data for the TPS and APP sensor circuits while manipulating the throttle?
Good answer: Yes, I saw the voltage for circuit 'C' was stuck high or spiking erratically, even at idle.
Have you performed a continuity and short-to-voltage test on the wiring harness between the sensor and the PCM?
Good answer: Yes, I found a short to the 5V reference wire in the harness, which was causing the high signal.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$200
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$500
Save $100-$300 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-2 hours
Intermediate - requires a multimeter and a scan tool with live data capability to accurately diagnose, but the physical replacement of the sensor is often simple.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0228 is dangerous. It can cause your vehicle to enter 'limp mode' with severely reduced power, or worse, lead to unpredictable acceleration or stalling, creating an unsafe driving condition. A $50-$200 sensor replacement now prevents potential accidents or being stranded.
While You're In There...
If you are removing the throttle body to replace the TPS, replacing the gasket prevents vacuum leaks and ensures a proper seal.
Cleaning the throttle body while it's accessible can improve idle quality and throttle response, preventing future issues.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool (with live data capability)
- Multimeter
- Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers)
- Wire stripper/crimper (if repairing wiring)
P0228 is a critical code that needs immediate attention, but it's a common sensor-related issue. Once diagnosed correctly, the repair is straightforward, and your vehicle's throttle control will be restored.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Perform a thorough visual inspection of the TPS/APP sensor and its wiring harness for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Pay close attention to the connector pins.
Step 2: Use an OBD-II scan tool to monitor the live data for the TPS/APP sensor 'C' circuit. Observe the voltage readings at idle and as you slowly press the accelerator pedal. Look for readings that are consistently too high or erratic.
Step 3: If the live data confirms an issue, use a multimeter to test the sensor's reference voltage, ground, and signal output directly at the sensor connector. Compare these readings to your vehicle's service manual specifications. If the sensor is faulty, replace it.