AutoCodesFord – P0221 Ford

P0221 Ford Code - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'B' Circuit

Quick Answer

Electric Throttle Control Actuator consists of throttle control motor, throttle position sensor (TPS), etc. Common causes include Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) harness is open or shorted, Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) circuit poor electrical connection, Faulty Throttle Position Sensor (TPS). Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0221 Ford indicates Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'B' Circuit .
Common causes
Common causes include Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) harness is open or shorted, Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) circuit poor electrical connection, Faulty Throttle Position Sensor (TPS).
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code Popularity 31,687
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P0221 Ford Description

Electric Throttle Control Actuator consists of throttle control motor, throttle position sensor (TPS), etc. The throttle position sensor responds to the throttle valve movement.
The throttle position sensor has the two sensors. These sensors are a kind of potentiometers which transform the throttle valve position into output voltage, and emit the voltage signal to the Engine Control Module (ECM) In addition, these sensors detect the opening and closing speed of the throttle valve and feed the voltage signals to the ECM. The ECM judges the current opening angle of the throttle valve from these signals and the ECM controls the throttle control motor to make the throttle valve opening angle properly in response to driving condition.
OBDII Code P0221 Ford - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'B' Circuit  - AutoCodes.com
P0221 Ford Code - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'B' Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0221 Ford?

  • Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) harness is open or shorted
  • Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)
  • Fault Electric Throttle Control Actuator (or Throttle Body Motor)
  • Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor (APP)

How to Fix the DTC P0221 Ford?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0221 Ford code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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Information for Specific Ford Models

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0221 Ford Code

What does the OBDII code P0221 mean for a Ford vehicle?

P0221 indicates an issue with the Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'B' Circuit, specifically a range or performance problem detected by the vehicle's computer.

What are common symptoms of code P0221 in a Ford?

Symptoms may include hesitation during acceleration, poor throttle response, reduced engine power, and possible activation of the check engine light.

What causes code P0221 to be triggered in a Ford?

Common causes include a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, issues with the throttle body, or problems with the pedal position sensor.

Can code P0221 cause drivability issues?

Yes, code P0221 can cause noticeable drivability issues, such as sluggish acceleration or erratic throttle behavior.

How can I diagnose code P0221 on my Ford?

Start by inspecting the throttle position sensor and pedal position sensor for damage or wear, and check the wiring and connectors for corrosion or loose connections.

Can I still drive my Ford with code P0221 active?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, it could experience reduced performance and safety issues. It's best to address the code promptly.

How do I fix code P0221 on a Ford?

Repairs may involve replacing the throttle position sensor or pedal position sensor, repairing damaged wiring, or cleaning/replacing the throttle body.

Do I need specialized tools to fix code P0221?

You may need a multimeter to test wiring and sensors, and a scan tool to clear the code after repairs.

How much does it cost to repair code P0221 on a Ford?

Costs vary depending on the exact issue, but replacing a throttle position sensor typically costs $100–$300, including labor.

Can a dirty throttle body cause code P0221 in a Ford?

Yes, a dirty or malfunctioning throttle body can disrupt the sensor readings and lead to code P0221 being set.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0221 Ford OBDII Code

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