AutoCodes – Buick – P0221 Buick

P0221 Buick Code - Throttle Position Sensor 2 Performance

Quick Answer

The Throttle Body Assembly contains a contact-less inductive throttle position sensing element that is managed by a customized integrated circuit. Common causes include Faulty Throttle Body Assembly, Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted, Throttle Body Assembly 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: P0221 Buick indicates Throttle Position Sensor 2 Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Throttle Body Assembly, Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted, Throttle Body Assembly 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 288

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Nov 05, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0221 Buick Description

The Throttle Body Assembly contains a contact-less inductive throttle position sensing element that is managed by a customized integrated circuit. The throttle position sensor is mounted within the throttle body assembly and is not serviceable. The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies the throttle body with a 5 V reference circuit, a low reference circuit. The asynchronous signal means communication is only going from the throttle body to the ECM. The throttle body cannot receive data from the ECM over the signal/serial data circuit. The throttle position sensor provides a signal voltage that changes relative to throttle blade angle. The throttle position sensor information is transmitted between the throttle body and the ECM on the signal/serial data circuit. The ECM decodes the serial data signal and is used as voltages for throttle position sensor 1 and 2. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects the throttle position sensor 2 signal voltage is less than 0.25 V for greater than 1 s.

OBDII Code P0221 Buick - Throttle Position Sensor 2 Performance - AutoCodes.com — P0221 Buick Code - Throttle Position Sensor 2 Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0221 Buick?

Faulty Throttle Body Assembly
Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted
Throttle Body Assembly circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0221 Buick?

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 Buick 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 P0221 Buick Code

What does the OBDII code P0221 on a Buick mean?

P0221 indicates a performance issue with Throttle Position Sensor 2, which monitors the throttle’s position to regulate engine performance.

What are common symptoms of code P0221?

Symptoms include engine hesitation, reduced power, poor fuel economy, rough idle, and possible activation of the Check Engine Light.

What causes the P0221 code on a Buick?

Common causes include a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, throttle body issues, or problems with the engine control module (ECM).

Can I drive my Buick with a P0221 code?

It’s possible to drive, but the vehicle may experience reduced power and erratic behavior. Prolonged driving can lead to further damage, so prompt repairs are recommended.

How is code P0221 diagnosed?

A mechanic will use an OBDII scanner, inspect the throttle position sensor, check wiring and connectors, and test the throttle body for proper operation.

How do I fix the P0221 code on my Buick?

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

Does the P0221 code always mean the throttle position sensor is bad?

No, it can also result from wiring issues, throttle body problems, or ECM malfunctions that require proper diagnosis.

Can cleaning the throttle body resolve the P0221 code?

In some cases, cleaning the throttle body can fix performance issues and clear the code if debris or carbon buildup is causing the problem.

How much does it cost to fix the P0221 code on a Buick?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $150 to $400, depending on whether the throttle position sensor, wiring, or other components need replacement.

Will clearing the P0221 code without repairs solve the problem?

Clearing the code may remove the Check Engine Light temporarily, but the underlying issue will persist and the code is likely to return.