P0224
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch B Circuit Intermittent
Throttle & pedal position
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P0224 means the ECM is seeing an intermittent, out-of-range signal from the second throttle or accelerator-pedal position sensor ('B' circuit). Modern drive-by-wire systems use two sensors to cross-check pedal input, so a dropout here usually triggers hesitation, surging, or a temporary drop into reduced-power mode rather than leaving the car undrivable.
High
Can I keep driving? Drivable but treat with caution — an intermittent signal can trigger sudden reduced-power/limp mode, so avoid heavy traffic or highway merges until it's fixed.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on, sometimes on and off
- Surging, hesitation, or unstable idle
- Intermittent reduced power or limp mode
- Erratic throttle response
Common causes
Most likely first
- Loose, corroded, or backed-out connector at the throttle body or accelerator pedal sensorLikely
- Chafed or intermittently shorting wiring in the sensor 'B' circuitCommon
- Failing throttle/pedal position sensor 'B' elementCommon
- Poor sensor ground or reference-voltage feedLess often
- Faulty ECM (least likely)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and wiggle-test the pedal/throttle connector while watching the live sensor 'B' voltage for dropouts.
- Inspect and reseat the connector; clean corrosion and repair any chafed wiring.
- Check the sensor's 5V reference and ground for intermittent loss.
- If the signal still drops with wiring confirmed good, replace the throttle/pedal position sensor.
- Clear the code and road-test to confirm the intermittent is gone.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0224?+
Short trips are usually fine, but because the fault is intermittent the car can drop into reduced-power mode without warning. Get it fixed before relying on it in fast traffic.
Can I just clear P0224?+
You can, but an intermittent connection or failing sensor will set it again. Find and fix the loose connector or wiring first.
Related codes
Often seen with P0224
Read & clear P0224 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