P215A Vehicle Speed – Wheel Speed Correlation

How severe is this DTC?

Conditions that contribute to the storage of a P215A code can lead to ABS deactivation or erratic transmission shift patterns. The code should be considered severe and addressed as soon as possible.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P215A diagnostic code may include:

Erratic speedometer
Inadvertent activation of ABS or traction control system (TCS)
Irregular transmission shift patterns
ABS codes may be stored
ABS may be disabled

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes

of this P215A code may include:

Excessive metal debris on the output speed sensor/wheel magnet
Faulty wheel speed sensor/vehicle speed sensor
Cut or damaged wiring or connectors
Broken, damaged, or worn reluctor ring teeth
Faulty PCM, ABCM, or EBCM

What are the diagnostic and troubleshooting steps for P215A?

A diagnostic scanner with a built-in oscilloscope, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source will be needed to diagnose a P215A code.

You will need the vehicle information resource for wiring diagrams, connector face views, connector pinout diagrams, diagnostic flowcharts, and component testing procedures/specifications. Without this information, successful diagnosis is impossible.

After performing a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors related to the system, I would proceed by connecting the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieving all stored codes and freeze frame data. I like to note this information as it may be useful as the diagnostic process unfolds. After that, I clear the codes and test the vehicle to see if the code resets.

If you have access to an oscilloscope type:
The following procedure applies to the output speed sensor and all individual wheel speed sensors.

  • Connect the oscilloscope’s positive test lead to the signal circuit of the sensor being tested
  • Select the appropriate voltage setting on the oscilloscope (sensor reference is usually 5 volts)
  • Connect the negative test lead to a ground (sensor ground or battery ground)
  • With the drive wheels off the ground and the vehicle secured, run the drivetrain while observing the waveform on the oscilloscope screen
  • You are looking for a uniform waveform pattern without voltage spikes or glitches when smoothly accelerating/decelerating through all gears
  • If inconsistencies are found, suspect a faulty sensor or poor electrical connection

Test the output speed sensor and individual wheel speed sensors:

  • Set the DVOM to the ohms setting and unplug the sensor being tested
  • Use the test leads to probe the connector pins and compare your results with the sensor test specifications
  • Sensors not meeting specifications should be considered faulty

Test output speed and individual wheel speed sensor reference voltage:

  • With key on/engine off (KOEO) and the tested sensor disconnected, probe the sensor connector’s reference circuit pin with the DVOM’s positive test lead
  • Simultaneously, the DVOM’s negative test lead should be used to probe the ground pin of the same connector
  • The reference voltage should meet the specifications provided in your vehicle information resource (usually 5 volts)

Test output speed sensor and individual wheel speed sensor signal voltage:

  • Reconnect the sensor and probe the signal circuit of the sensor being tested with the DVOM’s positive test lead (negative test lead to sensor ground or known good engine ground)
  • With key on engine running (KOER) and drive wheels safely on the ground, run the transmission while observing the voltage display on the DVOM
  • A speed-voltage chart can be found in the vehicle information source. You can use it to determine if the sensor is functioning correctly at different speeds
  • If any of the tested sensors do not reflect the appropriate voltage level (depending on speed), suspect it is faulty.
  • If the signal circuit reflects the correct voltage level at the sensor connector, use the DVOM to test the output speed sensor and individual wheel speed sensor signal circuits at their

respective controller connectors:

  • Use the DVOM’s positive test lead to probe the appropriate signal circuit at the controller
  • The negative test lead should again be grounded
  • If there is an acceptable sensor signal at the sensor connector that is not present at the controller connector, you have an open circuit between the controller and the tested sensor.
  • Suspect controller failure or programming error only after exhausting all other possibilities.

Use the vehicle information source to gather technical service bulletins (TSBs) that match the vehicle, symptoms, and stored codes in question. A code that applies to your situation can help develop an accurate diagnosis

P215B Vehicle Speed – Output Shaft Speed Correlation

How severe is this DTC?

Conditions that contribute to the storage of a P215B code can lead to incorrect speedometer calibration and erratic transmission shifting patterns. The code should be considered severe and addressed as soon as possible.

What are some of the symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P215B diagnostic code may include:

  • Erratic speedometer
  • Inadvertent activation of ABS or traction control system (TCS)
  • Irregular transmission shifting patterns
  • ABS codes may be stored
  • ABS may be disabled

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes

of this P215B code may include:

  • Incorrect final drive ratio (differential ring and pinion)
  • Excessive metal debris on the vehicle speed sensor output shaft magnet
  • Faulty vehicle speed sensor (output)/output shaft
  • Transmission slipping
  • Cut or damaged wiring or connectors
  • Broken, damaged, or worn reluctor ring teeth
  • PCM programming error or faulty PCM

What are the diagnostic and troubleshooting steps for P215B?

A diagnostic scanner with a built-in oscilloscope, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source will be needed to diagnose a P215B code.

With a stored P215B, I would ensure my automatic transmission is full of clean fluid that doesn’t smell burnt. If the transmission was leaking, I would repair the leak and refill it with fluid, then drive it to ensure it hasn’t suffered mechanical failure.

You will need the vehicle information resource for wiring diagrams, connector face views, connector pinout diagrams, diagnostic flowcharts, and component testing procedures/specifications. Without this information, successful diagnosis is impossible.

After performing a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors related to the system, I would proceed by connecting the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieving all stored codes and freeze frame data. I like to note this information as it can be helpful as the diagnostic process unfolds. After that, I clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if the code resets.

The simplest and most effective method for testing the powered vehicle speed sensor (output) and output shaft speed sensor data is with an oscilloscope. If you have access to an oscilloscope:

  • Connect the oscilloscope’s positive test lead to the signal circuit of the sensor being tested
  • Select the appropriate voltage setting on the oscilloscope (sensor reference is typically 5 volts)
  • Connect the negative test lead to a ground (sensor ground or battery ground)
  • With the drive wheels off the ground and the vehicle secured, operate the drivetrain while observing the waveform on the oscilloscope screen
  • You’re looking for a uniform waveform pattern without voltage spikes or glitches when smoothly accelerating/decelerating through all gears
  • If inconsistencies are found, suspect a faulty sensor or poor electrical connection

Test the vehicle speed sensor (output) and output shaft speed sensor:

  • Set the DVOM to the ohms setting and unplug the sensor being tested
  • Use the test leads to probe the connector pins and compare your results with the sensor’s test specifications
  • Sensors not meeting specifications should be considered faulty

Test the vehicle speed sensor (output) and output shaft speed sensor reference voltage:

  • With key on/engine off (KOEO) and the tested sensor disconnected, probe the sensor connector’s reference circuit pin with the DVOM’s positive test lead
  • Simultaneously, the DVOM’s negative test lead should be used to probe the ground pin of the same connector
  • The reference voltage should match the specifications provided in your vehicle information resource (typically 5 volts)

Test the vehicle speed sensor (output) and output shaft speed sensor signal voltage:

  • Reconnect the sensor and probe the signal circuit of the sensor being tested with the DVOM’s positive test lead (negative test lead to sensor ground or known good engine ground)
  • With key on engine running (KOER) and the drive wheels securely on the ground, operate the transmission while observing the voltage display on the DVOM
  • A speed-voltage chart can be found in the vehicle information source. You can use it to determine if the sensor is functioning correctly at different speeds
  • If any of the tested sensors do not reflect the appropriate voltage level (depending on speed), suspect it is faulty.

If the signal circuit reflects the correct voltage level at the sensor connector, use the DVOM to test the vehicle speed sensor (output) and output shaft speed sensor signal circuits at the PCM connector:

Use the DVOM’s positive test lead to probe the appropriate signal circuit at the PCM
The negative test lead should again be grounded
If there is an acceptable sensor signal at the sensor connector that isn’t at the PCM connector, you have an open circuit between the PCM and the sensor being tested

P215C Output Shaft Speed – Wheel Speed Correlation

How severe is this DTC?

Conditions contributing to the storage of a P215C code may result in ABS deactivation or erratic transmission shift patterns. The code should be considered severe and addressed as soon as possible.

What are some symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P215C diagnostic code may include:

Erratic speedometer
Inadvertent activation of ABS or traction control system (TCS)
Irregular transmission shifting patterns
ABS codes may be stored
ABS may be disabled

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes

of this P215C code may include:

Excessive metal debris on the output speed sensor/wheel magnet
Faulty output shaft speed/wheel speed sensor
Cut or damaged wiring or connectors
Broken, damaged, or worn reluctor ring teeth
Faulty PCM, ABCM, or EBCM

What are the diagnostic and troubleshooting steps for P215C?

Note: We are aware of a known issue with certain Dodge and Chrysler vehicles; there is a service bulletin #21-031-14 that applies to this P215C DTC.

A diagnostic scanner with a built-in oscilloscope, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source will be needed to diagnose a P215C code.

You will need the vehicle information resource for wiring diagrams, connector face views, connector pinout diagrams, diagnostic flowcharts, and component testing procedures/specifications. Without this information, successful diagnosis is impossible.

After performing a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors related to the system, I would proceed by connecting the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieving all stored codes and freeze frame data. I like to note this information as it may be useful as the diagnostic process unfolds. After that, I clear the codes and test-drive the vehicle to see if the code resets.

If you have access to an oscilloscope type:

The following procedure applies to the output shaft speed sensor and all individual wheel speed sensors.

  • Connect the oscilloscope’s positive test lead to the signal circuit of the sensor being tested
  • Select the appropriate voltage setting on the oscilloscope (sensor reference is typically 5 volts)
  • Connect the negative test lead to a ground (sensor ground or battery ground)
  • With the drive wheels off the ground and the vehicle secured, operate the drivetrain while observing the waveform on the oscilloscope screen
  • You are looking for a uniform waveform pattern without voltage spikes or glitches when smoothly accelerating/decelerating through all gears
  • If inconsistencies are found, suspect a faulty sensor or poor electrical connection

Test the output shaft speed sensor and individual wheel speed sensors:

  • Set the DVOM to the ohms setting and disconnect the sensor being tested
  • Use the test leads to probe the connector pins and compare your results with the sensor’s test specifications
  • Sensors not meeting specifications should be considered faulty

Test the output shaft speed sensor and individual wheel speed sensor reference voltage:

  • With the key on/engine off (KOEO) and the tested sensor disconnected, probe the sensor connector’s reference circuit pin with the DVOM’s positive test lead
  • Simultaneously, the DVOM’s negative test lead should be used to probe the ground pin of the same connector
  • The reference voltage should meet the specifications provided in your vehicle information resource (typically 5 volts)

Test the output shaft speed sensor and individual wheel speed sensor signal voltage:

  • Reconnect the sensor and probe the signal circuit of the sensor being tested with the DVOM’s positive test lead (negative test lead to sensor ground or a known good engine ground)
  • With the key on and engine running (KOER) and the drive wheels safely on the ground, operate the transmission while observing the voltage display on the DVOM
  • A speed-voltage chart can be found in the vehicle information source. You can use it to determine if the sensor is functioning correctly at different speeds
  • If any of the tested sensors do not reflect the appropriate voltage level (depending on speed), suspect it is faulty.
  • If the signal circuit reflects the correct voltage level at the sensor connector, use the DVOM to test the output shaft speed sensor and individual wheel speed sensor signal circuits at

their respective controller connectors:

  • Use the DVOM’s positive test lead to probe the appropriate signal circuit at the controller
  • The negative test lead should again be grounded
  • If there is an acceptable sensor signal at the sensor connector that is not present at the controller connector, you have an open circuit between the controller and the tested sensor.

Suspect controller failure or programming error only after exhausting all other possibilities.

Use the vehicle information source to gather Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that match the vehicle, symptoms, and stored codes in question. A code that applies to your circuits can help develop an accurate diagnosis.

P2160 – Vehicle Speed Sensor B, Low Input

Code Severity and Symptoms

Since conditions that can lead to storing a P2160 code may create driving and ABS issues, it should be classified as severe and addressed as quickly as possible.

Symptoms of a P2160 code may include:

  • Erratic speedometer/odometer operation
  • Irregular transmission shifting patterns
  • Illumination of check engine light soon, traction control light, or anti-lock brake light
  • Unexpected activation/deactivation of traction control system (if equipped)
  • Other transmission and ABS codes may be stored
  • ABS system may be rendered inoperative in some cases

Causes

Possible causes of this code include:

  • Excessive metallic debris buildup on speed sensors
  • Faulty wheel speed sensor or vehicle speed sensor
  • Cut or damaged wiring harnesses or connectors (particularly near speed sensors)
  • Damaged or worn teeth on a reluctor ring
  • Faulty PCM, ABCM, or EBCM

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A diagnostic scanner, digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), possibly an oscilloscope, and a reliable source of vehicle information will be needed when diagnosing a P2160 code.

I normally like to begin my diagnosis of a P2160 with a visual inspection of the system wiring, speed sensors, and connectors. Repair open or shorted circuits as needed and clean excessive metallic debris from affected sensors. Check reluctor ring integrity during sensor inspection.

Connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored trouble codes and available freeze frame data. Before clearing codes, note this information as it may prove useful as your diagnosis progresses.

Using your vehicle information source, research applicable Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs). If you find a TSB that matches the symptoms and stored codes of the vehicle in question, the diagnostic information it contains will likely help diagnose the P2160 from here.

Use the scanner’s data stream to observe wheel speeds and vehicle speed during vehicle road testing. You can narrow the data stream to display only relevant fields to increase the speed and accuracy of desired data delivery. Inconsistent or erratic readings from VSS or wheel speed sensors may lead you to wiring, electrical connector, or sensor issues by narrowing the general area of system malfunction.

After locating the VSS circuit from which the low voltage input is initiated, use the DVOM to perform a resistance test on the sensor in question. Consult your vehicle information source for manufacturer recommendations regarding VSS testing and replace sensors that don’t meet specifications.

Use the oscilloscope to retrieve live data from each individual VSS by probing the sensor signal wire and sensor ground wire. Lifting or jacking up the vehicle will almost always be necessary to properly perform this type of test. Once the drive axle(s) are securely fixed to the ground, rotate the transmission while observing the waveform on the oscilloscope. Focus on glitches or inconsistencies in the pattern and proceed with diagnosis accordingly.

Vehicle speed sensors can be damaged during routine maintenance, while wheel speed sensors and sensor wiring harnesses are frequently damaged during brake repair. If this code is presented immediately after a repair, suspect a damaged sensor harness, connector, or sensor.

Additional Diagnostic Notes:

  • When performing circuit resistance and continuity tests with a DVOM, always disconnect electrical connectors from associated controllers – failure to do so could result in damaged controller
    Exercise caution when removing sensors from transmission housings as hot transmission fluid may be inadvertently released

Vehicle Speed Sensor B Intermittent

Code Severity and Symptoms

Since conditions that can cause a stored P2161 code can create driving and ABS issues, it should be classified as severe and addressed with some degree of urgency.

Symptoms of a P2161 code may include:

  • Erratic speedometer/odometer operation
  • Irregular transmission shifting patterns
  • Other transmission and ABS codes may be stored
  • Illumination of check engine light, traction control light, or anti-lock brake light
  • Unexpected activation/deactivation of traction control system (if equipped)
  • ABS system may be rendered inoperative in some cases

Causes

Possible causes of this code include:

  • Excessive metal debris accumulation on speed sensors
  • Faulty wheel speed sensor or vehicle speed sensor
  • Cut or damaged wiring harnesses or connectors (particularly near speed sensors)
  • Damaged or worn teeth on a reluctor ring
  • Faulty PCM, ABCM, or EBCM

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

I would need a diagnostic scanner, digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), possibly an oscilloscope, and a reliable vehicle information source to diagnose a P2161 code. A scanner with built-in DVOM and oscilloscope would be ideal for this diagnosis.

I like to start my diagnosis with a visual inspection of the system wiring, speed sensors, and connectors. I would repair open or shorted circuits as needed and clean excessive metal debris from affected sensors. If sensor removal is possible, I would also check the integrity of the entire reluctor ring at that time.

Next, I would connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored trouble codes and freeze frame data. Note this information as it may prove useful as your diagnosis progresses. Now clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if symptoms persist and/or if the code resets.

A tip many professional technicians use is to search the vehicle information source for applicable technical service bulletins (TSBs). If you find a TSB that matches the symptoms and stored codes of the vehicle in question, the diagnostic information it contains will likely help properly diagnose P2161.

Observe wheel speed and/or vehicle speed (using scanner data stream) during vehicle test drive. By reducing the data stream to display only relevant fields, you can increase the speed and accuracy of desired data delivery. Inconsistent, erratic, or high readings from VSS or wheel speed sensors can lead you to wiring, electrical connector, or sensor issues by narrowing the general area of system malfunction.

Use the DVOM to perform a resistance test on the sensor in question after identifying the problem area. Consult your vehicle information source for manufacturer recommendations regarding VSS testing and replace sensors that don’t meet specifications. The oscilloscope can be used to retrieve live data from each individual VSS by probing the sensor signal wire and sensor ground wire. The powertrain will need to be running, so jacking or lifting the vehicle will be necessary to perform this type of test safely.

Vehicle speed sensors are frequently damaged during routine transmission maintenance, and wheel speed sensors (and sensor wiring harnesses) are often broken during brake repairs. If a P2161 code appears (immediately after a repair), suspect a damaged sensor harness or sensor.

Additional Diagnostic Notes:

When performing circuit resistance and continuity tests with a DVOM, always disconnect electrical connectors from associated controllers – failure to do so could result in damaged controller
Be careful when removing sensors from transmission housings (for testing) as hot transmission fluid can be harmful

P2162 – Output Speed Sensor A/B Correlation

How severe is this DTC?

Conditions contributing to the storage of a P2162 code can lead to incorrect speedometer calibration and erratic transmission shifting patterns. The code should be considered severe and addressed as soon as possible.

What are some symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2162 diagnostic code may include:

  • Irregular speedometer operation
  • Erratic transmission shifting patterns
  • Inadvertent activation of ABS or traction control system (TCS)
  • ABS codes may be stored
  • ABS may be disabled

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this P2162 code may include:

  • Incorrect final drive ratio (differential ring and pinion)
  • Transmission slipping
  • Excessive metal debris on the vehicle speed sensor output shaft/magnet
  • Faulty vehicle speed sensor (output)/output shaft
  • Cut or damaged wiring or connectors
  • Broken, damaged, or worn reluctor ring teeth
  • PCM programming error or faulty PCM

What are the diagnostic and troubleshooting steps for P2162?

A diagnostic scanner with a built-in oscilloscope, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source will be needed to diagnose a P2162 code.

With a stored P2162, I would ensure my automatic transmission is full of clean fluid that doesn’t smell burnt. If the transmission was leaking, I would repair the leak, refill it with fluid, and then drive it to ensure it hasn’t suffered mechanical failure.

You’ll need the vehicle information resource for wiring diagrams, connector face views, connector pinout diagrams, diagnostic flowcharts, and component testing procedures/specifications. Without this information, successful diagnosis is impossible.

After performing a visual inspection of wiring and connectors related to the system, I would proceed by connecting the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieving all stored codes and freeze frame data. I like to note this information as it can be helpful as the diagnostic process unfolds. After that, I clear the codes and test-drive the vehicle to see if the code resets.

The simplest and most effective method for testing live vehicle speed sensor (output) data is with an oscilloscope. If you have access to an oscilloscope:

  • Connect the oscilloscope’s positive test lead to the signal circuit of the sensor being tested
  • Select the appropriate voltage setting on the oscilloscope (sensor reference is typically 5 volts)
  • Connect the negative test lead to a ground (sensor ground or battery ground)
  • With the drive wheels off the ground and the vehicle secured, run through the gear range while observing the waveform on the oscilloscope screen
  • You’re looking for a uniform waveform pattern without voltage spikes or glitches when smoothly accelerating/decelerating through all gears
  • If inconsistencies are found, suspect a faulty sensor or poor electrical connection

Test vehicle speed sensors (output) independently:

  • Set the DVOM to the ohms setting and unplug the sensor being tested
  • Use the test leads to probe the connector pins and compare your results with the sensor’s test specifications
  • Sensors not meeting specifications should be considered faulty

Test vehicle speed sensor (output) reference voltage:

  • With key on/engine off (KOEO) and the tested sensor disconnected, probe the reference circuit pin of the sensor connector with the DVOM’s positive test lead
  • Simultaneously, the DVOM’s negative test lead should be used to probe the ground pin of the same connector
  • The reference voltage should match specifications provided in your vehicle information resource (typically 5 volts)

Test vehicle speed sensor (output) signal voltage:

  • Reconnect the sensor and probe the signal circuit of the sensor being tested with the DVOM’s positive test lead (negative test lead to sensor ground or known good engine ground)
  • With key on engine running (KOER) and drive wheels securely on the ground, run through the transmission gears while observing the voltage display on the DVOM
  • A speed-voltage chart can be found in the vehicle information source. You can use it to determine if the sensor is functioning correctly at different speeds
  • If any tested sensor doesn’t reflect the appropriate voltage level (depending on speed), suspect it’s faulty

If the signal circuit reflects the proper voltage level at the sensor connector, use the DVOM to test individual vehicle speed sensor (output) signal circuits at the PCM connector:

  • Use the DVOM’s positive test lead to probe the appropriate signal circuit at the PCM
  • The negative test lead should again be grounded
  • If there’s an acceptable sensor signal at the sensor connector that isn’t present at the PCM connector, you have an open circuit between the PCM and the tested sensor

Suspect PCM failure or programming error only after exhausting all other possibilities.

Use the vehicle information source to gather technical service bulletins (TSBs) that match the vehicle, symptoms, and stored codes in question. A TSB that applies to your situation can help develop an accurate diagnosis

P2163 Gas/Pedal Position Sensor A Maximum Stop Performance

How severe is this DTC?

A P2163 should be considered severe as it can result in the vehicle being undrivable.

What are some symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2163 trouble code may include:

  • Unresponsive accelerator
  • Limited or no acceleration
  • Engine stalling at idle
  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Inoperative cruise control

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this throttle/pedal position sensor P2163 code may include:

  • Faulty TPS or PPS
  • Open or shorted circuits between TPS, PPS and PCM
  • Corroded electrical connectors
  • Faulty DBW actuator motor

What are the P2163 troubleshooting steps?

Check your vehicle information source for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) matching the vehicle’s make, model and engine size. Symptoms and stored codes should also match. If you find a matching TSB, it will significantly assist your diagnosis.

My diagnosis for a P2163 code would typically begin with a visual inspection of all cables and connectors related to the system. I would also check the throttle plate for signs of carbon buildup or damage. Clean carbon from the throttle body according to manufacturer recommendations and repair or replace any faulty wiring or components as needed, then retest the DBW system.

You’ll need a diagnostic scanner, digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM) and reliable vehicle information source to accurately diagnose this code.

Next, connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored trouble codes. Record them in case you need the information later in your diagnosis. Also save any associated freeze frame data. These notes may prove useful, especially if P2163 is intermittent. Now clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if the code resets.

If the code immediately resets, voltage spikes and inconsistencies between TPS, PPS and PCM can be detected using scanner data stream. Narrow the data stream to display only relevant data for faster response. If no spikes and/or inconsistencies are detected, use the DVOM to retrieve live data from each sensor signal wire. To retrieve live data with DVOM, connect the positive test lead to the appropriate signal wire and the ground test lead to the ground circuit, then observe the DVOM display while operating the DBW. Look for voltage spikes when the accelerator is slowly operated from closed position to wide open throttle. Voltage typically ranges from 0.5 volts at throttle closed to 4.5 volts at wide open throttle, but consult your vehicle information source for exact specifications. If spikes or other irregularities are detected, suspect the tested sensor is faulty. An oscilloscope is also an excellent tool for testing sensor operation.

If the sensor operates as expected, disconnect all associated controllers and test individual circuits with the DVOM. Repair or replace system circuits as needed.

Only suspect a faulty PCM or PCM programming error after all system sensors and circuits have been verified.

Some manufacturers require the throttle body, throttle actuator motor and all throttle position sensors to be replaced as a single unit

P2164 Throttle Position Sensor / Pedal B Maximum Stop Performance

How severe is this DTC?

A P2164 should be considered severe as it can render the vehicle undrivable.

What are some symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2164 trouble code may include:

  • Unresponsive accelerator
  • Limited or no acceleration
  • Engine stalling at idle
  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Inoperative cruise control

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this throttle/pedal position sensor P2164 code may include:

  • Faulty TPS or PPS
  • Open or shorted circuits between TPS, PPS and PCM
  • Corroded electrical connectors
  • Faulty DBW actuator motor

What are the P2164 troubleshooting steps?

Check your vehicle information source for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) matching the vehicle’s make, model and engine size. Symptoms and stored codes should also match. If you find a matching TSB, this will significantly help your diagnosis.

My diagnosis for a P2164 code would typically start with a visual inspection of all cables and connectors related to the system. I would also check the throttle plate for signs of carbon buildup or damage. Clean carbon from the throttle body according to manufacturer recommendations and repair or replace faulty wiring or components as needed, then retest the DBW system.

You’ll need a diagnostic scanner, digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM) and reliable vehicle information source to accurately diagnose this code.

Next, connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored trouble codes. Note them down in case you need the information later in your diagnosis. Also save all associated freeze frame data. These notes may prove useful, especially if P2164 is intermittent. Now clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if the code resets.

If the code immediately resets, voltage spikes and inconsistencies between TPS, PPS and PCM can be detected using scanner data stream. Narrow the data stream to display only relevant data for faster response. If no spikes and/or inconsistencies are detected, use the DVOM to retrieve live data from each sensor signal wire. To retrieve live data with DVOM, connect the positive test lead to the appropriate signal wire and the ground test lead to the ground circuit, then observe the DVOM display while operating the DBW. Look for voltage spikes when the accelerator is slowly operated from closed position to wide open throttle. Voltage typically ranges from 0.5 volts at closed throttle to 4.5 volts at wide open throttle, but consult your vehicle information source for exact specifications. If spikes or other irregularities are detected, suspect the tested sensor is faulty. An oscilloscope is also an excellent tool for testing sensor operation.

If the sensor operates as expected, disconnect all associated controllers and test individual circuits with the DVOM. Repair or replace system circuits as needed.

Only suspect a faulty PCM or PCM programming error after all system sensors and circuits have been verified.

Some manufacturers require the throttle body, throttle actuator motor and all throttle position sensors to be replaced as a single unit

P2165 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor C Performance Stop Maximum

How severe is this DTC?

A P2165 should be considered severe as it can render the vehicle undrivable.

What are some symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2165 trouble code may include:

  • Unresponsive accelerator
  • Limited or no acceleration
  • Engine stalling at idle
  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Inoperative cruise control

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes

of this throttle/pedal position sensor code P2165 may include:

  • Faulty TPS or PPS
  • Open or shorted circuits between TPS, PPS, and PCM
  • Corroded electrical connectors
  • Defective DBW actuator motor

What are the P2165 troubleshooting steps?

Check your vehicle’s information source for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that match the make, model, and engine size of the vehicle in question. The symptoms and stored codes should also match. If you find a matching TSB, it will greatly assist in your diagnosis.

My diagnosis for a P2165 code would typically start with a visual inspection of all cables and connectors related to the system. I would also check the throttle plate for signs of carbon buildup or damage. Clean carbon from the throttle body according to manufacturer recommendations and repair or replace faulty wiring or components as needed, then retest the DBW system.

You will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source to accurately diagnose this code.

Next, connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored trouble codes. Record them in case you need the information later in your diagnosis. Also save all associated freeze frame data. These notes may prove useful, especially if P2165 is intermittent. Now clear the codes and test the vehicle to see if the code resets.

If the code immediately resets, voltage spikes and inconsistencies between the TPS, PPS, and PCM can be detected using scanner data stream. Narrow the data stream to display only relevant data for faster response. If no spikes and/or inconsistencies are detected, use the DVOM to retrieve live data from each sensor signal wire. To retrieve live data with the DVOM, connect the positive test lead to the appropriate signal wire and the ground test lead to the ground circuit, then observe the DVOM display while operating the DBW. Look for voltage spikes when the accelerator is slowly operated from closed position to wide open throttle. Voltage typically ranges from 0.5 volts at closed throttle to 4.5 volts at wide open throttle, but consult your vehicle information source for exact specifications. If spikes or other irregularities are detected, suspect the tested sensor is faulty. An oscilloscope is also an excellent tool for testing sensor operation.

If the sensor operates as expected, disconnect all associated controllers and test individual circuits with the DVOM. Repair or replace system circuits as needed.

Only suspect a faulty PCM or PCM programming error if all system sensors and circuits have been verified.

Some manufacturers require the throttle body, throttle actuator motor, and all throttle position sensors to be replaced as a single unit

P2166 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor D Maximum Stop Performance

How severe is this DTC?

A P2166 should be considered severe as it can render the vehicle undrivable.

What are some symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2166 trouble code may include:

  • Unresponsive accelerator
  • Limited or no acceleration
  • Engine stalling at idle
  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Inoperative cruise control

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this throttle/pedal position sensor P2166 code may include:

  • Faulty TPS or PPS
  • Open or shorted circuits between TPS, PPS and PCM
  • Corroded electrical connectors
  • Faulty DBW actuator motor

What are the P2166 troubleshooting steps?

Check your vehicle information source for Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) that match the make, model and engine size of the vehicle in question. Symptoms and stored codes should also match. If you find a matching TSB, this will greatly assist your diagnosis.

My diagnosis for a P2166 code typically begins with a visual inspection of all cables and connectors related to the system. I would also check the throttle plate for signs of carbon buildup or damage. Clean carbon from the throttle body according to manufacturer recommendations and repair or replace any faulty wiring or components as needed, then retest the DBW system.

You will need a diagnostic scanner, digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM) and a reliable vehicle information source to accurately diagnose this code.

Next, connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored trouble codes. Record them in case you need the information later in your diagnosis. Also save any associated freeze frame data. These notes may prove useful, especially if P2166 is intermittent. Now clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if the code resets.

If the code immediately resets, voltage spikes and inconsistencies between the TPS, PPS and PCM can be detected using scanner data stream. Narrow the data stream to display only relevant data for faster response. If no spikes and/or inconsistencies are detected, use the DVOM to retrieve live data from each sensor signal wire. To retrieve live data with the DVOM, connect the positive test lead to the appropriate signal wire and the ground test lead to the ground circuit, then observe the DVOM display while operating the DBW. Look for voltage spikes when the accelerator is slowly operated from closed position to wide open throttle. Voltage typically ranges from 0.5 volts at throttle closed to 4.5 volts at wide open throttle, but consult your vehicle information source for exact specifications. If spikes or other irregularities are detected, suspect the tested sensor is faulty. An oscilloscope is also an excellent tool for testing sensor operation.

If the sensor operates as expected, disconnect all associated controllers and test individual circuits with the DVOM. Repair or replace system circuits as needed.

Only suspect a faulty PCM or PCM programming error after all system sensors and circuits have been verified.

Some manufacturers require the throttle body, throttle actuator motor and all throttle position sensors to be replaced as a single unit