P0223
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch B Circuit High
Throttle / pedal position
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P0223 means the ECM sees an abnormally high voltage from the 'B' throttle- or accelerator-pedal position sensor. Because the ECM relies on this signal to judge how far the throttle is opened, a bad reading usually drops the engine into a reduced-power "limp" mode with poor or erratic throttle response, and can cause hesitation or stalling.
High
Can I keep driving? Drive with caution — a bad throttle/pedal signal often forces reduced-power limp mode and can cause stalling or hesitation; fix promptly.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Reduced power / limp mode
- Hesitation or surging
- Poor or erratic acceleration
- Possible stalling at idle
Common causes
Most likely first
- Failed 'B' throttle- or accelerator-pedal position sensorLikely
- Short-to-voltage or open in the signal wiringCommon
- Corroded or damaged connectorCommon
- Faulty 5V reference or ground to the sensorLess often
- Rarely, a failing ECMLess often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read both throttle/pedal position signals in live data and watch for the high or erratic one.
- Wiggle-test and inspect the connector and wiring for shorts to power or breaks.
- Verify the 5V reference and ground at the sensor.
- Replace the pedal assembly or throttle body sensor if the signal is faulty.
- Clear the code and re-test through the full pedal range.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0223?+
Only carefully and briefly. The car will likely go into reduced-power limp mode and may stall or respond erratically, which is unsafe in traffic. Get it fixed promptly.
Can I just clear P0223?+
It returns as soon as the ECM sees the high signal again. The sensor or its wiring has to be repaired before the throttle response is trustworthy.
Related codes
Often seen with P0223
Read & clear P0223 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX