P212A Throttle Position Sensor/Switch B Circuit Malfunction

Symptoms

Potential symptoms include:

  • MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) illumination
  • Misfires at idle or highway speed
  • Poor idle quality
  • May not idle
  • May start and stall

Causes

Potential causes of P212A code include:

  • Sticking throttle return spring
  • Corrosion of MAP or TPS connectors
  • Misrouted harness causing chafing
  • Faulty TPS
  • Faulty PCM

Possible Solutions

If you have access to a scan tool, with KOEO (Key On Engine Off), monitor TPS voltage. With the throttle closed, voltage should be approximately 0.45 volts. It should gradually sweep up to about 4.5 to 5 volts as you press the accelerator. Sometimes only an oscilloscope can capture an intermittent problem in TPS signal voltage. If you notice an issue in TPS sweep voltage, replace the TPS.

NOTE: Some TPS sensors require fine adjustment. If you are not comfortable using a DVOM (Digital Volt Ohm Meter) to adjust the new TPS, then it is best to take the vehicle to a shop. If voltage is not 0.45 volts (+ or – approximately 0.3 volts) with throttle closed or if reading is “stuck,” disconnect the TPS connector. With KOEO, check for 5 volt reference voltage present at connector and good ground. You can check signal circuit continuity by jumpering a fuse wire between TPS connector ground circuit and signal circuit. If TPS reading on scan tool now shows zero, replace TPS. However, if it does not change reading to zero, check for open or short in signal wire and if none found, suspect faulty PCM. If manipulating TPS cable harness causes change at idle, suspect faulty TPS.

P212B Throttle Position Sensor G Circuit Range / Performance

Symptoms

Potential

Symptoms of a P212B trouble code may include:

  • Illumination of the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) (Check Engine light or Service Engine Soon light)
  • Intermittent stumbling during acceleration or deceleration
  • Black smoke puff during acceleration
  • No start condition

Causes

A P212B code may indicate that one or more of the following events has occurred:

  • TPS has intermittent open or short internally
  • Harness rubbing causing open or short in wiring
  • Poor connection at TPS
  • Faulty PCM (less likely)
  • Water or corrosion in connector or sensor

Possible Solutions

1. If you have access to a scan tool, check the idle and WOT (wide open throttle) readings for the TPS. Verify if they are close to the specifications mentioned above. If not, replace the TPS and recheck.

2. Look for an intermittent open or short in the TPS signal. To do this, you cannot use a scan tool. You will need an oscilloscope. The reason is that scan tools sample many different readings over one or two data lines and may miss an intermittent interruption. Connect your oscilloscope and observe the signal. It should sweep up and down smoothly without jerks or spikes.

3. If no issues were found, perform a wiggle test. To do this, wiggle the connector and harness while observing the pattern. Does it drop out? If yes, replace TPS and recheck.

4. If you have no TPS signal, check for the 5-volt reference at the connector. If present, check if the ground circuit is open or shorted.

5. Ensure the signal circuit is not at 12V. It should never have battery voltage. If it does, trace the circuit for a short and repair.

6. Look for water in the connector and replace TPS if necessary….

P212C – Low Input of Throttle Position Sensor G Circuit

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

  • Irregular or low idle
  • Stalling
  • Surging
  • No/little acceleration
  • Other symptoms may also be present

Causes

A P212C code may mean that one or more of the following events have occurred:

  • TPS not securely mounted
  • Short circuit in TPS circuit to ground or another wire
  • Faulty TPS
  • Damaged computer (PCM)

Possible Solutions

Here are some recommended troubleshooting and repair steps:

Carefully check the throttle position sensor (TPS), wiring connector, and wiring for breaks, etc. Repair or replace if necessary
Check voltage at TPS (refer to your vehicle’s service manual for specific information). If voltage is too low, it indicates a problem. Replace if necessary.

If recently replaced, the TPS may need adjustment. On some vehicles, installation instructions require proper TPS alignment or adjustment, consult a repair manual for details.
If there are no symptoms, the problem may be intermittent and clearing the code may temporarily resolve the issue. If this is the case, you should definitely check wiring to ensure it’s not rubbing against anything, grounding, etc. The code may return.

P212D – High Input from Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch G Circuit

Symptoms

/ severity

When this code is stored, the PCM typically enters limp mode. Engine acceleration will be severely limited (if not disabled) in this mode. Symptoms of a P212D code may include:

  • Throttle stuck (at any RPM)
  • Limited or no acceleration
  • Engine stalling at idle
  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Cruise control inoperative

Causes

Possible causes of this engine code include:

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

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to check the technical service bulletins (TSB) for your specific vehicle. Your issue might be a known problem with a published manufacturer fix that could save you time and money during diagnosis.

I would need access to a diagnostic scanner, digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM) and vehicle information source like All Data (DIY) to diagnose a P212D code.

I would make the first step of my diagnosis a visual inspection of all cables and connectors related to the system. I also like to check the throttle plate for signs of carbon buildup or damage. Excessive carbon buildup, which keeps the throttle body open at startup, can cause a P212D code to be stored. 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.

Next, I connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored trouble codes. I note them down in case I need the order in which codes were stored. I also like to save all related freeze frame data. These notes can prove helpful if P212D proves to be intermittent. Now I clear the codes and test drive the vehicle. If the code resets, I continue my diagnosis

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 individually. To retrieve live data with the DVOM, connect test leads to appropriate signal and ground circuits and observe the DVOM display while operating the DBW. Look for voltage spikes when the throttle 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. If spikes or other irregularities are detected, suspect the tested sensor is faulty. An oscilloscope is also an excellent tool for testing sensor operation.

Additional Diagnostic Notes:

Some manufacturers require the throttle body, throttle actuator motor and all throttle position sensors to be replaced together

P212E Throttle Position Sensor / Switch G Circuit Intermittent

Severity and Symptoms

The TPS plays a crucial role in engine operation, therefore, a stored P212E code should be addressed with a certain degree of urgency.

Symptoms of a P212E code may include:

  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Black smoke from the engine exhaust (especially at startup)
  • Delayed engine starting (particularly during cold starts)
  • Reduced fuel efficiency
  • Stored emission-related codes may accompany a P212E

Causes

Possible causes of this engine code include:

  • Faulty or improperly adjusted TPS
  • Open or shorted TPS “G” wires or connectors
  • Binding or damaged throttle plate
  • Incorrect PCM or PCM programming error

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to check the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your specific vehicle. Your issue might be a known problem with a published fix from the manufacturer, which can save time and money during diagnosis.

I typically use a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information (such as ALL DATA DIY) to diagnose a P212E code.

Successful diagnosis usually begins with a visual inspection of all cables and connectors related to the system. I also like to test the throttle plate for signs of coking or carbon damage. Repair or replace any faulty wiring or components as needed, then recheck the throttle body and TPS.

Connect the scanner to the diagnostic connector; retrieve all stored fault codes and note them for future reference. I also save any associated freeze frame data. My notes often prove useful if the stored code turns out to be intermittent. Next, I would clear the codes and test the vehicle. Continue diagnostics if the code resets. If it does not reset, the condition might need to worsen before a proper diagnosis can be made. Drive the vehicle normally until the PCM enters readiness mode or the code resets.

Proceed by checking the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) relevant to the specific malfunction (and vehicle) in question by consulting your vehicle information source. If applicable, use the information in the appropriate TSB to assist in your diagnosis. TSBs can be particularly helpful when diagnosing intermittent conditions.

The scanner data stream can provide useful information regarding faults and inconsistencies in the throttle position sensor. If you filter the scanner data stream to display only relevant data, you will get a more accurate response from the data.

If no issues are detected, use the DVOM to test the TPS. Using the DVOM gives you access to live data if the appropriate test leads are connected to the ground and signal circuits. Watch the DVOM screen while manually operating the throttle. Look for voltage spikes when the throttle is slowly moved from the closed position to wide open throttle. Voltage typically ranges from 0.5 volts at closed throttle to 4.5 volts at open throttle. If faults or other inconsistencies are detected, suspect that the tested sensor is faulty or improperly adjusted.

Additional Diagnostic Notes:

If the TPS has been replaced and a P212E continues to be stored, consult the vehicle information source for TPS adjustment specifications.
Use the DVOM (with test leads connected to the ground and signal circuits) to accurately adjust the TPS

P2130 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch B Circuit Malfunction

Symptoms

Potential symptoms include:

  • MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) illumination
  • Misfires at idle or highway speed
  • Poor idle quality
  • May not idle
  • May start and stall

Causes

Potential causes of P2130 code include:

  • Sticking throttle return spring
  • Corrosion of MAP or TPS connectors
  • Misrouted harness causing chafing
  • Faulty TPS
  • Faulty PCM

Possible Solutions

If you have access to a scan tool, with KOEO (Key On Engine Off), monitor TPS voltage. With the throttle closed, voltage should be approximately 0.45 volts. It should gradually sweep up to about 4.5 to 5 volts as you press the accelerator. Sometimes only an oscilloscope can capture an intermittent problem in TPS signal voltage. If you notice an issue in the TPS sweep voltage, replace the TPS.

NOTE: Some TPS sensors require fine adjustment. If you’re not comfortable using a DVOM (Digital Volt Ohm Meter) to adjust the new TPS, then it’s best to take the vehicle to a shop. If the voltage is not 0.45 volts (+ or – about 0.3 volts) with the throttle closed or if the reading is “stuck,” disconnect the TPS connector. With KOEO, check for 5 volt reference voltage present at the connector and a good ground. You can check signal circuit continuity by jumpering a fuse wire between the TPS connector ground circuit and the signal circuit. If the TPS reading on the scan tool now shows zero, replace the TPS. However, if it doesn’t change the reading to zero, check for an open or short in the signal wire and if none is found, suspect a faulty PCM. If manipulating the TPS cable harness causes a change at rest, suspect a faulty TPS.

P2131 Throttle Position Sensor F Circuit Range / Performance

Symptoms

Potential

Symptoms of a P2131 trouble code may include:

  • Illumination of the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) (Check Engine light or Service Engine Soon light)
  • Intermittent stumbling during acceleration or deceleration
  • Black smoke puff during acceleration
  • No start condition

Causes

A P2131 code may indicate that one or more of the following events has occurred:

  • TPS has intermittent open or short internally
  • Harness rubbing causing open or short in wiring
  • Poor connection at TPS
  • Faulty PCM (less likely)
  • Water or corrosion in connector or sensor

Possible Solutions

1. If you have access to a scan tool, check the idle and WOT (wide open throttle) readings for the TPS. Verify if they are close to the specifications mentioned above. If not, replace the TPS and recheck.

2. Look for intermittent open or short in the TPS signal. To do this, you cannot use a scan tool. You will need an oscilloscope. The reason is that scan tools sample many different readings over one or two data lines and may miss an intermittent interruption. Connect your oscilloscope and observe the signal. It should sweep up and down smoothly without jerks or spikes.

3. If no issues were found, perform a wiggle test. To do this, wiggle the connector and harness while observing the pattern. Does it drop out? If yes, replace TPS and recheck.

4. If you have no TPS signal, check for the 5-volt reference at the connector. If present, check if the ground circuit is open or shorted.

5. Ensure the signal circuit is not at 12V. It should never have battery voltage. If it does, trace the circuit for a short and repair.

6. Look for water in the connector and replace TPS if necessary.

P2132 Throttle Position Sensor F Circuit Low Input

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

  • Irregular or low idle
  • Stalling
  • Surging
  • No/little acceleration
  • Other symptoms may also be present

Causes

A P2132 code may mean one or more of the following has occurred:

  • TPS not securely mounted
  • Short circuit in TPS wiring to ground or another wire
  • Faulty TPS
  • Damaged computer (PCM)

Possible Solutions

Here are some recommended troubleshooting and repair steps:

Carefully inspect the throttle position sensor (TPS), wiring connector, and wiring for breaks, etc. Repair or replace if necessary
Check voltage at TPS (refer to your vehicle’s service manual for specific information). If voltage is too low, it indicates a problem. Replace if necessary.

If recently replaced, the TPS may need adjustment. On some vehicles, installation instructions require proper TPS alignment or adjustment, consult a repair manual for details.
If there are no symptoms, the problem may be intermittent and clearing the code may temporarily resolve the issue. If this is the case, you should definitely check wiring to ensure it’s not rubbing against anything, grounding, etc. The code may return.

P2133 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch F Circuit High Input

Symptoms

/ severity

When this code is stored, the PCM typically enters limp mode. Engine acceleration will be severely limited (if not disabled) in this mode. Symptoms of a P2133 code may include:

  • Stuck accelerator (at any RPM)
  • Limited or no acceleration
  • Engine stalling at idle
  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Inoperative cruise control

Causes

Possible causes of this engine code include:

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

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to check the technical service bulletins (TSB) for your specific vehicle. Your problem may be a known issue with a known fix published by the manufacturer and can save you time and money during diagnosis.

I would need access to a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM) and a vehicle information source like All Data (DIY) to diagnose a P2133 code.

I would make the first step of my diagnosis a visual inspection of all cables and connectors related to the system. I also like to check the throttle plate for signs of carbon buildup or damage. Excessive carbon buildup, which keeps the throttle body open at startup, can lead to the storage of a P2133 code. 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.

Next, I connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored fault codes. I note them down in case I need the order in which the codes were stored. I also like to keep all related freeze frame data. These notes may prove useful if P2133 proves to be intermittent. Now I clear the codes and test the vehicle. If the code resets, I continue my diagnosis

Voltage spikes and inconsistencies between the TPS, PPS and PCM can be detected using the scanner’s data stream. Refine 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 of the sensors individually. To retrieve live data with the DVOM, connect the test leads to the appropriate signal and ground circuits and observe the DVOM display while using 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. If spikes or other irregularities are detected, suspect the tested sensor is faulty. An oscilloscope is also an excellent tool for testing sensor operation.

Additional Diagnostic Notes:

Some manufacturers require the throttle body, throttle actuator motor and all throttle position sensors to be replaced together

P2134 Throttle Position Sensor / Switch F, Intermittent Circuit

Severity and Symptoms

The TPS plays an important role in engine operation, therefore, a stored P2134 code should be treated with a certain degree of urgency.

Symptoms of a P2134 code may include:

  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Black smoke from engine exhaust (particularly at startup)
  • Delayed engine starting (especially during cold starts)
  • Reduced fuel efficiency
  • Stored emission-related codes may accompany a P2134

Causes

Possible causes of this engine code include:

  • Faulty or improperly adjusted TPS
  • Open or shorted TPS “F” wires or connectors
  • Binding or damaged throttle plate
  • Incorrect PCM or PCM programming error

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

A good starting point is always to check the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for your specific vehicle. Your issue might be a known problem with a published fix from the manufacturer and could save you time and money during diagnosis.

I typically use a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information (such as ALLDATA DIY) to diagnose a P2134 code.

Successful diagnosis usually begins with a visual inspection of all cables and connectors related to the system. I also like to test the throttle plate for signs of coking or carbon damage. Repair or replace any faulty wiring or components as needed, then recheck the throttle body and TPS.

Connect the scanner to the diagnostic connector; retrieve all stored fault codes and note them for future reference. I also save all associated freeze frame data. My notes are often helpful if the stored code proves to be intermittent. Then, I would clear the codes and test the vehicle. Continue diagnosis if the code resets. If it doesn’t reset, the condition might need to worsen before a proper diagnosis can be made. Drive the vehicle normally until the PCM enters readiness mode or the code resets.

Proceed by checking the Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that apply to the specific malfunction (and vehicle) in question by consulting your vehicle information source. If applicable, use the information in the appropriate TSB to assist in your diagnosis. TSBs can be particularly helpful when diagnosing an intermittent condition.

The scanner data stream can provide useful information regarding faults and inconsistencies in the throttle position sensor. If you filter the scanner data stream to display only relevant data, you’ll get a more accurate response from the data.

If no issues are detected, use the DVOM to test the TPS. Using the DVOM gives you access to live data if the appropriate test leads are connected to the ground and signal circuits. Watch the DVOM screen while manually operating the throttle. Look for voltage spikes when the throttle is slowly operated from the closed position to wide open throttle. Voltage typically ranges from 0.5 volts at closed throttle to 4.5 volts at open throttle. If faults or other inconsistencies are detected, suspect that the tested sensor is faulty or improperly adjusted.

Additional Diagnostic Notes:

If the TPS has been replaced and a P2134 continues to be stored, consult the vehicle information source for TPS adjustment specifications.
Use the DVOM (with test leads connected to the ground and signal circuits) to accurately adjust the TPS