AutoCodes – Scion – P2138 Scion

P2138 Scion 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 Scion 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 8,936
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 17, 2022
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Code P2138 Scion 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 Scion - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D'/'E' Voltage Correlation - AutoCodes.com
P2138 Scion Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D'/'E' Voltage Correlation

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2138 Scion?

  • 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 Scion?

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 Scion 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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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 Scion Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P2138 in a Scion related to the throttle pedal position sensor/switch?

- Common symptoms include reduced engine power, hesitation or stalling when accelerating, and the vehicle going into limp mode.

2. What are the potential causes of the OBDII code P2138 in a Scion?

- The code P2138 is often triggered by a faulty throttle pedal position sensor/switch, wiring issues, or problems with the throttle body.

3. How can I diagnose the throttle pedal position sensor/switch issue causing OBDII code P2138 in my Scion?

- To diagnose the issue, you can use a scan tool to check for the P2138 code, inspect the throttle pedal sensor wiring, and perform a throttle body inspection for any signs of wear or damage.

4. Can I drive my Scion with the OBDII code P2138 present?

- It is not recommended to drive your Scion with the P2138 code present, as it can lead to safety hazards and further damage to the vehicle if not addressed promptly.

5. How can I repair the throttle pedal position sensor/switch issue causing OBDII code P2138 in my Scion?

- The repair may involve replacing the throttle pedal position sensor/switch, repairing any damaged wiring, or cleaning/replacing the throttle body if necessary.

6. Will resetting the OBDII code P2138 in my Scion make the issue go away permanently?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but if the underlying issue with the throttle pedal position sensor/switch is not fixed, the code is likely to reappear.

7. Is it possible to prevent the OBDII code P2138 in a Scion related to the throttle pedal position sensor/switch?

- Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the throttle body and ensuring proper wiring connections, can help prevent issues that may trigger the P2138 code.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast repair the OBDII code P2138 related to the throttle pedal position sensor/switch in a Scion?

- Depending on your experience and tools available, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to replace the throttle pedal position sensor/switch themselves. However, proper diagnosis is crucial.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair the throttle pedal position sensor/switch issue causing OBDII code P2138 in a Scion?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the extent of the issue and whether you choose to do the repair yourself or take it to a mechanic. Costs may range from $100 to $400 or more.

10. Can a malfunctioning throttle pedal position sensor/switch causing OBDII code P2138 impact the fuel efficiency of my Scion?

- Yes, a faulty throttle pedal position sensor/switch can lead to inefficient fuel consumption due to improper air-fuel mixture control, potentially affecting the vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P2138 Scion OBDII Code

  • I had problems with idling and shaking and vibration. Took to Auto zone and error was p2138. What could it be? 2103 Scion frs automatic

  • The P2138 code is for the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor, but that sensor usually wont cause an idling problem. Either you got the wrong code or the problem with the idle is not triggering any codes.

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