P0226 - THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR C CIRCUIT RANGE / PERFORMANCE

Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) calculates throttle opening, as the throttle opens, the reading expressed in voltage, increases.

The vehicle’s main computer delivers a 5 volt reference signal to the TPS Sensor, plus a ground. If the vehicle is idling, this voltage should be 0.5. But if the vehicle is at full throttle there should be 4.5 volts.

If the PCM finds that the throttle angle is higher or lower than it should be for one Revolution Per Minute, the fault code P0226 OBDII will be stored. The letter C, refers to a particular part of the circuit.

• Check Engine lamp on.
• Engine may not start.
• Stumble on acceleration.
• Excessive smoke.

The reasons for storing the DTC P0226 OBD2 are:

• An internal Throttle Position Sensor
• TPS Sensor wires may be shorted.
• A bad electrical connection of the TPS sensor.
• Presence of corrosion on the sensor connector.
• The TPS Sensor may be faulty.

The troubleshooting steps for problems related to the P0226 OBDII error code are as follows:

• With a scanner, observe the readings with the throttle inactive and with the throttle open for the Throttle Position Sensor. Compare with the technical specifications and if they do not match, replace the TPS Sensor.
• Use an oscilloscope to check that the Throttle Position Sensor signal is not shorted. If there are problems with the signal, replace the sensor.
• If there is no signal coming from the sensor, check the reference signal at the connector. If there is 5 volts, check the ground circuit for shorts.
• Check the signal circuit. If there is 12 volts, it is due to a short voltage. Make the necessary repairs.
• Check the TPS sensor connector for the presence of water. If so, replace the sensor.