P0226
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch C Circuit Range/Performance
Throttle & pedal position
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P0226 means the ECM sees the "C" throttle- or accelerator-pedal position signal reading outside its expected range, or not tracking the way it should. Because this signal tells the engine how far the throttle is open, a fault often triggers reduced-power mode and jumpy throttle response. It's almost always a sensor, connector, or wiring problem.
High
Can I keep driving? Usually drivable, but the car may drop into reduced-power (limp) mode with sluggish or erratic throttle response — get it checked soon.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Reduced engine power or limp/failsafe mode
- Poor or erratic throttle response, surging or hesitation
- Rough or unstable idle
Common causes
Most likely first
- Faulty throttle or accelerator-pedal position sensor (the 'C' signal)Likely
- Damaged, chafed, or shorted wiring in the sensor circuitCommon
- Loose or corroded connector at the sensor or ECMCommon
- Failed ECM (rare — verify wiring and sensor first)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Scan and read freeze-frame data to see the conditions when the code set.
- Inspect the sensor connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, or loose pins.
- Back-probe the sensor and watch its voltage sweep smoothly as the throttle/pedal moves — a dropout or spike confirms a bad sensor.
- Replace the throttle or pedal position sensor if its signal is out of range.
- Only after wiring and sensor check out, consider the ECM. Clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0226?+
Short trips are usually fine, but the car may limit power or respond unpredictably to the pedal. Have it fixed before relying on the vehicle.
Can I just clear P0226?+
It will come back — often quickly — until the faulty sensor, wiring, or connector is repaired.
Related codes
Often seen with P0226
Read & clear P0226 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