P0227
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch C Circuit Low
Throttle & pedal position
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P0227 means the ECM is reading an abnormally low voltage on the 'C' circuit of the throttle-position or accelerator-pedal sensor. Because the computer uses this signal to judge how far the throttle is open, a bad reading can cut power or force the car into a reduced-power limp mode until the fault is fixed.
High
Can I keep driving? Usually driveable, but expect reduced power or limp mode — get it looked at soon, as an erratic throttle signal can make the car surge, hesitate, or lose power unexpectedly.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Reduced power or limp mode
- Poor or hesitant throttle response and acceleration
- Rough or unstable idle
Common causes
Most likely first
- Damaged wiring or a corroded connector in the sensor 'C' circuit (most common)Likely
- Faulty throttle-position or accelerator-pedal position sensor 'C'Common
- Poor sensor ground or reference-voltage supplyCommon
- Failed ECM (rare)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and inspect the sensor connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, or a loose pin.
- Back-probe the sensor signal, ground, and 5V reference with a meter and compare to spec.
- If wiring checks out, replace the throttle/pedal position sensor.
- Only consider the ECM after wiring and sensor are confirmed good. Clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0227?+
Short trips are usually fine, but the car may drop into limp mode with reduced power. Get it diagnosed before relying on it, since throttle response can be unpredictable.
Can I just clear P0227?+
It will come back until the circuit fault is repaired. A low-signal circuit code almost always points to real wiring or sensor damage.
Related codes
Often seen with P0227
Read & clear P0227 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