P0229
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch C Circuit Intermittent
Throttle / pedal position
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P0229 means the ECM is seeing an intermittent, dropping-out signal from the "C" throttle or accelerator-pedal position sensor. Because the computer uses this signal to judge how far you're pressing the pedal, a glitchy reading can trigger hesitation or a sudden drop into reduced-power mode. It's most often loose wiring rather than the sensor itself.
High
Can I keep driving? Usually drivable but risky — an intermittent signal can drop the car into reduced-power (limp) mode without warning, so get it checked soon.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Reduced power or reduced-power (limp) mode
- Hesitation or stumbling on acceleration
- Erratic or surging idle
Common causes
Most likely first
- Loose, corroded, or backed-out sensor connector (most common with an intermittent code)Likely
- Chafed or broken wiring in the throttle/pedal sensor circuitCommon
- Failing throttle- or accelerator-pedal position sensor CCommon
- Internal ECM fault (rare)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and wiggle-test the sensor connector and harness while watching the signal for dropouts.
- Inspect and reseat the connector; clean corrosion and repair chafed wiring.
- Back-probe the sensor's reference, signal, and ground while moving the pedal to confirm a smooth, in-range sweep.
- Replace the throttle/pedal position sensor if the signal drops out with good wiring.
- Clear the code and road-test; only suspect the ECM after wiring and sensor check out.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0229?+
Short trips are usually fine, but the car can drop into reduced-power mode unexpectedly, so avoid highway or heavy-traffic driving until it's fixed.
Can I just clear P0229?+
It will clear, but an intermittent code returns as soon as the loose connection or failing sensor acts up again. Fix the cause.
Related codes
Often seen with P0229
Read & clear P0229 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