AutoCodes – Toyota – P2138 2013 Toyota RAV4

P2138 2013 Toyota RAV4 Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D'/'E' Voltage Correlation

Quick Answer

The Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensor is built into the accelerator pedal sensor assembly and has 2 sensor circuits: VPA (main) and VPA2 (sub). Common causes include Faulty Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor, Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. 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: P2138 2013 Toyota RAV4 indicates Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D'/'E' Voltage Correlation.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor, Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
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 358

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 17, 2022

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
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Code P2138 2013 Toyota RAV4 Description

The Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensor is built into the accelerator pedal sensor assembly and has 2 sensor circuits: VPA (main) and VPA2 (sub). This sensor is a non-contact type sensor and uses Hall-effect elements in order to yield accurate signals even in extreme driving conditions, such as at high speeds as well as very low speeds. The voltage, which is applied to terminals VPA and VPA2 of the Engine Control Module (ECM), varies between 0.5 V and 4.75 V in proportion to the operating angle of the accelerator pedal (throttle valve). A signal from VPA indicates the actual accelerator pedal opening angle (throttle valve opening angle) and is used for engine control. A signal from VPA2 conveys the status of the VPA circuit and is used to check the accelerator pedal position sensor itself.
The ECM monitors the actual accelerator pedal opening angle (throttle valve opening angle) through the signals from VPA and VPA2 and controls the throttle actuator according to these signals.
When either the output voltage of VPA or VPA2 deviates from the standard range, or the difference between the output voltages of the 2 sensor circuits is more than the threshold, the ECM determines that there is a malfunction in the accelerator pedal position sensor. The ECM then illuminates the MIL and stores a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).

OBDII Code P2138 2013 Toyota RAV4 - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D'/'E' Voltage Correlation - AutoCodes.com — P2138 2013 Toyota RAV4 Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D'/'E' Voltage Correlation

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2138 2013 Toyota RAV4?

Faulty Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor
Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P2138 2013 Toyota RAV4?

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 P2138 2013 Toyota RAV4 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.

Need more information about the P2138 2013 Toyota RAV4 code?

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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 P2138 2013 Toyota RAV4 Code

1. What does OBDII code P2138 on a 2013 Toyota RAV4 indicate?

The code P2138 indicates a Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D'/'E' Voltage Correlation issue in the vehicle.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P2138 error in a 2013 Toyota RAV4?

Common symptoms include reduced engine power, poor acceleration, stalling, and the vehicle going into limp mode.

3. What are the potential causes of the P2138 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4?

Potential causes may include a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, issues with the throttle body, or a problem with the engine control module.

4. How can I diagnose the P2138 error in my 2013 Toyota RAV4?

Diagnostic steps may involve checking the throttle position sensor's voltage, inspecting wiring for damage, testing the throttle body, and scanning the vehicle's computer for other related fault codes.

5. How serious is the P2138 error code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4?

While the vehicle may still be operable with this code, it is crucial to address it promptly to avoid potential safety hazards and further damage to the engine or related components.

6. Can I drive my 2013 Toyota RAV4 with the P2138 code?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the P2138 code present, as it can lead to performance issues and potentially unsafe driving conditions.

7. What are some repair tips for fixing the P2138 error in a 2013 Toyota RAV4?

Repair tips may include checking and cleaning throttle body connections, replacing the throttle position sensor, repairing damaged wiring, or resetting the engine control module.

8. How much does it cost to repair the P2138 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, parts needed, and labor costs. It is advisable to consult with a mechanic for an accurate estimate.

9. Can I reset the P2138 code in my 2013 Toyota RAV4 without repairing the issue?

While you can clear the code using an OBDII scanner, it is essential to address the underlying problem to prevent the code from reoccurring and potentially causing further damage.

10. How can I prevent the P2138 code from appearing in my 2013 Toyota RAV4 in the future?

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning throttle components, checking wiring integrity, and addressing any related issues promptly, can help prevent the recurrence of the P2138 error code.