How to fix the P0221 trouble code?
2 Answers
P0221 trouble code can be fixed by cleaning the throttle body and then rematching it. If the trouble code still appears, it means the throttle pedal position sensor is damaged and needs to be replaced. The throttle body is known as the throat of the engine. When the throttle pedal is pressed, it does not directly control the fuel injection volume but controls the opening of the throttle body. When the throttle opening increases, the amount of air entering the engine increases. At this time, the air flow sensor will detect the increased air volume and send this signal to the ECU. The ECU will then command the fuel injection system to inject more fuel, causing the engine speed to rise and the vehicle to accelerate.
My own car once had the P0221 trouble code. It happened suddenly on the highway when the warning light came on and the engine started shaking. I first pulled over to check with an OBD scanner and confirmed it was an issue with the throttle position sensor B. I tried unplugging and reconnecting the connector, only to find the socket was full of oil residue. I sprayed some circuit cleaner, wiped it clean, reconnected it, and after restarting, the light went off. Later, a friend mentioned that if cleaning didn’t work, I might need to replace the sensor or check for a short circuit in the wiring. The sensor isn’t expensive, and replacing it yourself is simple, but you need to be careful not to damage the connector. Regular throttle maintenance is a good habit to avoid carbon buildup causing problems.
