Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch B Circuit Low
The P0222 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch B Circuit Low. This is a moderate severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Short distances only
- DIY difficulty
- moderate
- Estimated cost
- $120 - $450 (parts and labor)
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Common Symptoms
- Reduced engine power or limp mode
- Engine idles higher or lower than normal
- Check Engine Light illuminated
- Poor throttle response or no response
- Vehicle may stall when coming to a stop
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Short to ground in TPS B signal circuit Very High
- Faulty throttle position sensor B High
- Corroded or damaged wiring connector at TPS High
- Open circuit in TPS B reference voltage wire Moderate
- PCM/ECM internal failure Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Check TPS B signal voltage with a multimeter -- reading below 0.2V at closed throttle indicates a low circuit fault
-
Inspect the TPS connector for bent, corroded, or pushed-back pins
-
Test the 5V reference voltage at the TPS connector -- if missing, trace the wire back to the PCM
-
Wiggle-test the TPS wiring harness while monitoring live data for intermittent drops
-
Replace the TPS or throttle body assembly if sensor tests confirm internal failure
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing P0222 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2011-2019 Ford F-150/Edge/Explorer 2.0L/2.7L/3.5L EcoBoost easy DIY
Ford EcoBoost P0222 almost always = corroded throttle body connector pins. Unplug it, spray CRC contact cleaner, then apply dielectric grease. If pins are green/corroded, replace the connector pigtail. Also check harness ground G101 behind the driver-side headlight.
Labor: 30 min2008-2016 Ford Focus/Fusion/Escape 2.0L/2.5L easy DIY
Failed throttle body TPS sensor -- the entire throttle body is replaced as an assembly on drive-by-wire systems. Ford Motorcraft ETB replacement takes 20 minutes. After install, perform PCM throttle body relearn (KOEO, then 5-min KOER idle).
Labor: 20-30 min2007-2014 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 5.3L/6.0L easy DIY
GM full-size trucks with the 5.3L/6.0L: check the TAC module ground stud on the driver-side fender. Corroded stud sends false TPS-B low readings. Clean, re-torque to 89 in-lb, and coat with anti-seize. Also inspect TB harness for rodent damage.
Labor: 20 minFrequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code P0222?
Driving short distances is possible, but the vehicle will likely be in limp mode with limited power. Have it repaired soon to prevent unsafe driving conditions.
What causes a low TPS B signal?
A low signal is typically caused by a short to ground in the TPS B wiring, a failed sensor, or a broken reference voltage wire. Corrosion at the connector is also a common cause.
Is the TPS part of the throttle body?
On most modern vehicles, yes. The TPS is integrated into the electronic throttle body and cannot be replaced separately, requiring a full throttle body replacement.
Sources
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
P0222 on Diesel, EV & Equipment
The same code ID appears across other engines and platforms. The diagnostic flow varies by manufacturer — these are the platform-specific breakdowns:
See All Codes & Fixes for Your Vehicle
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