P2163
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor A Maximum Stop Performance
Throttle actuator control
Generic OBD-II
Medium
What it means
P2163 sets when throttle position sensor A doesn't reach the expected voltage at its wide-open (maximum) stop, so the ECM can't confirm the throttle's full-travel range. It's typically a failing sensor, a binding throttle plate, or a wiring fault, and often triggers a reduced-power limp mode.
Medium
Can I keep driving? Usually drivable, but the car can drop into a reduced-power limp mode with sluggish throttle response until it's fixed.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Reduced power, often a limp/failsafe mode
- Hesitation or surging under acceleration
- Throttle feels unresponsive at higher pedal travel
Common causes
Most likely first
- Faulty throttle position sensor A or throttle body assemblyLikely
- Carbon buildup or a binding throttle plate affecting the wide-open (maximum) stopCommon
- Open, shorted, or chafed sensor signal wiringCommon
- Poor connection or corrosion at the throttle/pedal sensor connectorLess often
- Rarely, a faulty ECM/PCMLess often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and confirm the A sensor circuit is the one flagged.
- Inspect and clean the throttle body, checking the plate moves freely to its full-open stop.
- Backprobe the sensor connector (key on, engine off) for a steady 5V reference and a good ground.
- Wiggle-test the harness and connector for opens, shorts, or corrosion.
- Relearn the throttle position; if the fault persists, replace the throttle body/sensor and retest.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P2163?+
Short trips are usually fine, but the car may enter a reduced-power limp mode, so get it repaired soon.
Can I just clear P2163?+
It returns until the throttle body/sensor is repaired and the throttle position is relearned.
Related codes
Often seen with P2163
Read & clear P2163 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