P0220 — Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor B Circuit Malfunction – iCarsoft Official Store

P0220 is an OBD-II code that signals a malfunction in the Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch B Circuit. This guide covers causes, symptoms, step-by-step diagnosis, real-world cases, and how iCarsoft CR MAX BT helps solve it efficiently.

What does P0220 mean?

The throttle position sensor (TPS) and pedal position sensor (PPS) send signals to the engine control module (ECM) to regulate throttle angle and engine response. P0220 indicates that sensor B circuit is malfunctioning—either due to a wiring fault, sensor failure, or ECM issue.

Throttle pedal position sensor wiring and connector - P0220 fault

Common symptoms

Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated
Poor throttle response or hesitation
Limp mode / reduced engine power
Engine stalling or surging
Unstable idle RPM

Causes of P0220

Defective throttle position sensor (TPS)
Pedal position sensor wiring harness damaged or corroded
Connector loose or pins bent
ECM receiving inconsistent voltage signals
Short/open circuits in TPS/PPS wiring

Diagnosis steps with iCarsoft CR MAX BT

Scan for codes: Confirm P0220 and check for related codes (P0221, P0120, P2135).
View live data: Compare voltage readings from TPS A and TPS B — normal range ~0.5V at idle to ~4.5V at WOT.
Wiggle test: Move harness/connectors while monitoring voltage to detect intermittent faults.
Check continuity: Use a multimeter to test wiring between TPS and ECM.
Replace faulty sensor or repair wiring as needed.

With iCarsoft CR MAX BT, you can graph both TPS sensors in real time, making it easier to spot inconsistencies.

User case — Real-world example

"My Ford F-150 went into limp mode with code P0220. Using CR MAX BT, I saw TPS B voltage flatlined at 0.2V while TPS A tracked normally. Replaced TPS and fixed the issue in under 1 hour." — Mark, DIY enthusiast

FAQ

Q: Can I drive with a P0220 code?: A: Driving with P0220 is risky — limp mode reduces power, and throttle response is unpredictable. Repair before regular driving.
Q: Does P0220 mean my ECM is bad?: A: Not necessarily. Most cases are due to sensor or wiring faults. ECM failure is rare and should be the last suspect.
Q: How much does it cost to fix P0220?: A: TPS replacement costs $80–$250 including labor. Wiring repairs may be cheaper. ECM replacement is much higher.
Q: How does iCarsoft CR MAX BT help?: A: It allows side-by-side live data comparison of TPS A vs TPS B, capturing voltage drops, intermittent faults, and logging data for shop review.
Q: Is P0220 the same as P0221?: A: No. P0221 refers to "Range/Performance" of TPS B, while P0220 refers to a general circuit fault (wiring/signal loss).