P0220: Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch "B" Circuit
A general electrical fault was detected in the secondary (B) throttle or pedal position sensor circuit. Modern drive-by-wire systems use redundant TPS tracks; the ECU compares them and flags this code on the B channel when out of range.
What P0220 means
P0220 is a generic OBD-II powertrain code in the fuel & air group. In plain English: the computer found an electrical fault in that circuit: an open, short or bad connection, or a failed component.
- Check engine light
- Usually on
- Emissions-related
- Yes — can fail inspection
- Limp mode possible
- Yes
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
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Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Reduced throttle response, possible limp mode
- Hesitation or surging
- Idle too high or too low
Common causes
- 01TPS B element failedMost likely
- 02Wiring or connector faultPossible
Can I drive with P0220?
Not recommended beyond getting it to a shop.
This fault can put the engine or transmission in limp mode with reduced power, which can make merging and passing unsafe. Have it diagnosed as soon as possible.
Why we rate it urgent
- Can put the vehicle in limp mode (reduced power)
- Turns on the check engine light
- Emissions-related: will usually fail an OBD inspection
Severity is our rule-based rating from the code’s flags in OBDex and the system it affects, not an inspection of your car. If the check engine light is flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, stop driving and get help.
How to diagnose P0220
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just P0220. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Fix other faults first
If other codes are stored, start with power-supply, sensor-circuit and communication codes. They can cause this code as a side effect.
- 3
Test the circuit
Inspect the wiring and connector at the throttle position sensor b and pedal position sensor for damage, corrosion or chafing. With a multimeter, check supply voltage, ground and signal against the specifications in the service manual for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: TPS B element failed; wiring or connector fault. Test before replacing parts.
- 5
Check for recalls and service bulletins
Look up recalls for your exact vehicle with its VIN, and ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs). Manufacturers sometimes issue software updates or extended warranties for known faults.
- 6
Clear the code and verify the repair
After the repair, clear the code and drive the car under the conditions in the freeze-frame data to confirm it does not return.
P0220 repair cost estimate
Estimate, not a quote. Labor times are typical ranges for this code from OBDex, and $125/hr is an assumed rate. Shop rates and labor times vary by vehicle and region. Diagnosis time may be billed separately.
- DIY difficulty
- Moderate
- Good DIY job?
- Yes, with a scan tool
Needs a scan tool and some experience with testing.
Parts and systems involved
- Throttle position sensor B
- Pedal position sensor
- Tps wiring
P0220 FAQ
What does P0220 mean?
P0220 means “Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch B Circuit”. A general electrical fault was detected in the secondary (B) throttle or pedal position sensor circuit. Modern drive-by-wire systems use redundant TPS tracks; the ECU compares them and flags this code on the B channel when out of range.
Is P0220 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate P0220 as urgent severity. Not recommended beyond getting it to a shop. This fault can put the engine or transmission in limp mode with reduced power, which can make merging and passing unsafe. Have it diagnosed as soon as possible.
What causes P0220?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: TPS B element failed; Wiring or connector fault. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix P0220?
Typical labor is about $40–$250 at an assumed $125/hour shop rate, plus parts. That is an estimate, not a quote: labor times and rates vary by vehicle and region, and diagnosis may be billed separately.
Can I fix P0220 myself?
DIY difficulty is moderate. Many owners can handle it with a scan tool, a multimeter and basic hand tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will P0220 clear itself?
If the fault was intermittent, the warning may go off once the computer stops seeing it, but the code stays in memory. Fix the cause; clearing the code alone doesn’t repair anything.