Powertrain, generic · Fuel and air metering (injector circuit)

P0229 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch C Circuit Intermittent

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

Sensor C is a third throttle or pedal position signal; its role depends on the manufacturer. Ford uses it for the sensor of the second throttle body on engines with two throttles and digital (SENT) sensors, GM does not use it. P0229 reports a fault of sensor C that comes and goes. Ford documents it exactly: if its digital sensor on the second throttle body reports a fault for more than 0.4 s, P0229 sets; if the fault persists beyond 4 s it becomes P0225. Both switch on the warning light and the wrench light. Typical causes are a loose contact at the second throttle body's connector or chafed wiring.

Likely causes

Loose contact at the second throttle body connector (spread pins, corrosion)
Harness chafing with intermittent short or open
Sensor or second throttle body with an internal intermittent fault
Voltage dips in the supply or ground

Symptoms

  • Check engine light and wrench light (Ford)
  • Brief jerking or loss of power
  • Occasional limp mode

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumDIY possible
Parts and labour€30–700
Time0.5–3 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

throttle position sensor celectronic throttle bodysensor wiring

Related codes

P0225P0226P0227P0228P0224P0124

References: fordservicecontent.com, law.cornell.edu, en.wikipedia.org.