TORKO

P0221 Throttle/pedal position sensor B range/performance

What P0221 means

Throttle position sensor B is sending a signal, but it does not agree with sensor A or with what the engine computer expects. The computer cannot be sure how far the throttle is open and usually limits power.

P0221 is a generic SAE J2012 code: it means the same on every make. The exact cause still depends on the car, so read the freeze-frame data before replacing parts.

At a glance

Severity
High
Typical repair cost
80–600 €
Workshop time
0.3–2.5 h
Repair difficulty
Medium
DIY possible
Yes
Check engine light
Yes
Affects emissions test
Yes
Limp mode possible
Yes

Parts and labour at an independent workshop in Europe. Main dealers charge more; the cause decides the bill, not the code.

Symptoms

Common causes

  1. Worn or dirty sensor track in the throttle body
  2. Carbon build-up making the throttle stick
  3. High resistance in the wiring or connector
  4. Throttle adaptation not performed after cleaning or replacement

Can I keep driving with P0221?

Get it checked within a few days. The car is likely to run in limp mode with reduced power.

What to check first

  1. Read the freeze-frame data and compare both throttle sensor signals in live data.
  2. Inspect and clean the throttle body if carbon is present.
  3. Check the connector and wiring for corrosion or high resistance.
  4. Run the throttle adaptation; replace the throttle body if the two signals still disagree.

Related codes

Data: TORKO fault-code catalogue, built on OBDex (CC0-1.0) and reviewed against workshop practice. Informational only — it does not replace a diagnosis by a mechanic.
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