P0226 code definition
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch C Circuit Range/Performance Problem
What the P0226 code means
P0226 is a generic OBD-II code which indicates that the throttle/pedal position sensor/switch C circuit has a range or performance problem causing the sensor input to the engine control module (ECM) to not be the same as the expected voltage input compared to the redundant throttle position A.
What causes the P0226 code?
The ECM detects sensor circuit voltage that is outside of the specified range designed for the sensor over a specified amount of time
Short to the supply voltage in the signal cable
Short to ground in the signal cable
Open circuit in the signal cable
What are the symptoms of the P0226 code?
The sensor is ignored during braking and the throttle is shut completely during stops
The throttle sets to a fixed position during failure
Low idle position resulting in uneven idle or jerking during braking
Very poor throttle response, or no response at all, during acceleration
Disabled cruise control
Vehicle speed limited to approximately 32 mph or less
Check Engine Light and Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light illumination
How does a mechanic diagnose the P0226 code?
Scans codes and documents the freeze frame data
Clears the engine and ETC codes to verify whether the concern comes back
Does a visual check of the wiring and connections to the throttle body sensors to see if they are secure
Disconnects connection to the sensors and checks for corrosion, or problems with pin engagement
Checks scan data to see if sensor voltage is open or shorted, and follows pinpoint testing steps to find short or open circuit
Tests the sensor resistance and compares it to specifications
Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0226 code
Follow these simple guidelines to prevent misdiagnosis
Do a visual check of connections to the sensor to make sure they are making good contact to the throttle control assembly
Make sure the battery and charging system is working properly
Look for any problems with burnt or cut wiring to the sensor, or corrosion in the connections
How serious is the P0226 code?
- The engine will go into limp home mode and systems will be limited
- The vehicle speed will be limited to less than 35 mph
- The engine may hesitate or lack acceleration
- The engine idle will be low and erratic, or may be fixed to a set RPM
What repairs can fix the P0226 code?
Repairing or replacing defective connectors or wiring to the sensor if they are corroded, or have connector damage
Repairing cuts or shorts in the wiring to the sensor
Replacing the throttle body control assembly, if defective
Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0226 code
The code P0226 is for one of the multiple sensors for the throttle body control. Some vehicles use the sensor to compare voltage output with the redundant sensors to prevent throttle control issues. This code may have various drive symptoms, depending on the manufacturer's failure limp home mode.
Need help with a P0226 code?
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