Throttle is power. A vital vehicle function, without it functioning correctly, you will either travel too fast or not at all. Since the invention of the car, throttle systems haven’t evolved much. The core of a throttle body still revolves around a valve that lets air into the intake. The only change is the introduction of electromechanical actuators instead of old-school throttle cables.

Repairing these electromechanical systems can be difficult, which often means they have to be replaced when they fail. However, these same systems have made diagnostics easier, as they can be accessed and diagnosed through the engine computer. 

The P0223 check engine light code is the diagnostic code triggered by an issue with the throttle position sensor. Here, you’ll find specialized information on how to diagnose each component, potential fixes, causes, and symptoms. So, let’s get into it!

What is the P0223 Code, and What Does It Mean? 

This code refers to the throttle position sensor outputting voltage than normal voltage. This code refers to circuit B, which can differ from vehicle to vehicle. Some vehicles use a two-circuit system (“A” and “B”) but only have one sensor and use mechanical pedal actuation.

Drive-by-wire (DBW) systems use a throttle position sensor and pedal position sensor sometimes referred to as throttle position sensor “B.” Always refer to your owner’s manual before testing or making any parts replacements to your vehicle.

Where Is the Throttle Position Sensor Located?

You’ll usually find your throttle position sensor on top of the throttle body. In vehicles that use DBW systems, there is an additional sensor either integrated into the accelerator pedal or under the driver’s dash above the pedal.

You can tell whether your vehicle uses an integrated sensor based on the position of the accelerator pedal base. If your pedal rises from the floor, it is likely an integrated system. Many German manufacturers opt for this type of sensor. When the pedal linkage comes from under the passenger dash, the sensor is also located there.

What Can Cause a TPS Code?

Throttle issues are a safety hazard. Suddenly losing throttle or unintended acceleration can mean that you are no longer fully in control of your vehicle. Of course, there are fail-safes that prevent these situations but even lesser TPS issues can be scary. Some of the common causes are.

• Wiring harness failure
• Failed PPS or TP sensor
• Faulty throttle actuator motor

Wiring Harness Failure

The wiring harness is a common failure point in most sensors. Internal shorts or external damage to the wiring harness can cause incorrect voltage numbers to register on the PCM. 

With the P0223, corrosion of the sensor connector is one of the primary causes of the trouble code as corroded actuator pins carry incorrect voltage values to the TPS. This can either be voltage spikes or a higher-than-normal voltage over time.

Failed PPS or TP Sensor

Sensor failure is a common cause of several trouble codes. Sensors are the chief means of producing data metrics, such as the throttle and pedal position. 

The PCM uses sensor telemetry to adjust vehicle functions like fuel injection and air intake. A malfunction of the pedal position sensor (PPS) and TPS means that none of these functions can be performed correctly. At that point, the PCM logs the P0233 code.

Faulty Throttle Actuator Motor

In vehicles that use a drive-by-wire system, the PPS creates voltage when you press the accelerator pedal. 

This sensor sends voltage to the PCM and then to the throttle position sensor on the throttle body. The motor will receive the voltage from this sensor and convert it into mechanical output, which controls the throttle valve, usually with a set of gears.

This is different from vehicles that use a mechanical throttle cable which is either connected directly to the throttle body or a lever that actuates a set of gears, adjusting the throttle valve. 

A failed actuator motor can send incorrect throttle inputs from TPS or not function at all when it receives voltage signals. In most cases, you will end up in limp mode as the throttle position will not correlate with other sensors. 

What Are the Common Symptoms of the P0223 Fault Code?

Knowing the symptoms of a trouble code is the best way to prevent a serious safety hazard or further damage to your vehicle. There are a few symptoms specific to this trouble code and some that are common with most throttle issues. Here are a few common symptoms:

• Check engine light
• Spongy throttle pedal
• Engine stalls
• Acceleration issues
• ADAS failure

Check Engine Light

This is the first sign of any vehicle issue. Although it is not exclusive to this trouble code, it’s a surefire way of informing you that there is something wrong with your vehicle. A serious issue like unintended acceleration will cause limp mode and the CEL to flash.

Spongy Throttle Pedal

The PPS controls pedal feel, amongst other things. This is great for when you need a more responsive throttle pedal, as it allows for additional drive modes like “comfort and sport.” 

If it malfunctions, you may feel that when you press the throttle, the vehicle accelerates too much, or when you fully press the pedal, it barely speeds up. The latter is more likely to occur when you have a P0223 trouble code.

Engine Stalls

Engine stalling is a common issue when your throttle system is malfunctioning. If there’s too much air coming into the engine and not enough fuel, your engine may stall. A general mismatch in the vehicle sensors causes this problem.

Acceleration Issues

The primary purpose of the throttle system is to control acceleration. Although not all acceleration issues are caused by the throttle system, it’s one of the first systems that you should look at. A vehicle that stops accelerating at a specific RPM, hesitates when you press the throttle pedal, or experiences limited acceleration can have the P0223 code.

ADAS Failure

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like cruise control and lane-keeping-assist use your vehicle’s sensors to control vehicle functions. Cruise control specifically uses your TPS and PPS to adjust the throttle according to the speed limit or setting that you have chosen. In most cases, your cruise control will not engage if there are issues like the P0223 code.

How to Diagnose and Fix the Cause of P0223 Code 

Depending on the severity of the trouble code, diagnosing and fixing a P0223 can range from simple to tediously difficult. Here, you’ll find a step-by-step walkthrough on how to diagnose the various causes and additional information on the problem.

OBD-II Reader

The OBD-II reader or scan tool is a mechanic’s main means of communicating with the engine computer. This extends to DIY mechanics as even professional-grade tools are now accessible to the general public.

Connect your OBD scan tool using the connection port under the dash. The location of this port does differ from vehicle to vehicle, so make sure to consult your owner’s manual before attempting to connect your scan tool.

Once you’re connected, scan for trouble codes and look for everything, including the P0223 code. There may also be additional throttle codes that can help you track down the root cause faster.

Visual Inspection

First, we’ll tackle the most accessible part, the TP sensor. Check the sensor connector for corrosion or disconnection. If there are signs of melting or denting on the sensor, it is likely the cause of your P0223. A lack of obvious signs of trouble does not rule out an internal short, which is more common in this part, so make sure you test further before making your final diagnosis.

Now, we move on to the more invasive tests. You need to check your pedal position sensor and actuator motor. If the housing of your PPS is damaged in any way, or it is disconnected from the harness, it may need to be replaced. The actuator motor is an electromechanical component, so it will not show many external signs of damage. Check for any corrosion or damaged gears.

TPS and PPS Test

Now you need to get down and dirty with sensor testing. For this test, you will need a multimeter to measure the correct reference and signal voltage. First, we’ll focus on testing the TPS sensor, as it is more accessible than the other throttle sensor.

Check for a ground short. Your vehicle needs to be in the KOEO (Key on Engine Off) position for this test. Contact your red (positive) multimeter probe to the positive battery terminal and the black (ground) probe to the sensor ground terminal. You should get around 12V on the multimeter.

Next, check for reference voltage. This is a 5V constant that is supplied to the sensor. Contact the reference terminal with the red multimeter probe and use your black probe to contact the ground. The ground can be the vehicle chassis or negative battery terminal. Any reading less than around 4.7V means that there is an issue somewhere in your sensor connector or wiring harness.

Lastly, check for signal voltage. Once you’ve contacted the signal terminal and ground, the multimeter should read around 0.2V to 1.5V. Start your vehicle and apply some throttle. This number should increase to about 5V at full throttle, depending on your vehicle.

How to Fix a P0223 code

There is no quick fix for complete sensor failure. However, if you have a corroded sensor connector, some electrical cleaner, and a small abrasive brush will do the trick. If the sensor pins themselves are corroded, you will have to replace the whole sensor. We offer a wide range of quality throttle position sensors. Check our catalog for top-tier replacement options. 

Does P0223 Clear Itself?

You should not rely on throttle trouble codes to clear themselves. Unintended acceleration and other safety hazards are a reality when dealing with any throttle issue. Limp mode is also a common feature to prevent these safety hazards and must be cleared with a scan tool.

Is It OK to Drive with P0223?

You should avoid driving with this trouble code. Most DBW vehicles will automatically limit your acceleration using limp mode. However, if this is not a feature of your vehicle, pull over as soon as it is safe to do so.

Get Rid of the P0223 Code With Quality Parts

So, you finally know where the fault is. Finding quality parts that are tailored to your vehicle can be almost as difficult as diagnosing the source of the P0223 trouble code. Of course, we have you covered in that area.

At eEuroparts.com, we know that you need genuine, OEM, and high-quality aftermarket components, and you need them now. Our website allows you to select your vehicle from a wide range and gives you a tailored list of parts that fit your vehicle. No need to wade through a long-winded phone conversation with parts suppliers, we’ve got you covered!