P0221
High SeverityThrottle/Pedal Position Sensor B Range/Performance
Fuel System
P0221 — Instant Answer
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor B Range/Performance
Severity: HIGH SEVERITY
Meaning: TPS B reading is out of expected range compared to other throttle inputs.
Safe to drive? NO if CEL is flashing. YES with caution if solid, but repair this week.
Estimated repair cost: $10 - $250
Most common causes:
- 1. Faulty TPS B (35-45% of cases)
- 2. Carbon buildup in throttle body (10-25% of cases)
- 3. Wiring issue (10-25% of cases)
Symptoms
- ⚠️Reduced power mode
- ⚠️Hesitation
- ⚠️Inconsistent throttle response
Common Causes
How to Diagnose P0221
- 1Compare TPS A and B readings
- 2Clean throttle body
- 3Check wiring
- 4Replace throttle body
OEM Procedures for P0221
P0221 affects the Throttle Position Sensor. Found 9 OEM service manual procedures.
Remove/Install/Overhaul - Removal (Tracker)
Remove/Install/Overhaul - Removal (Tracker)
Remove/Install/Overhaul - Removal (Tracker)
Remove/Install/Overhaul - Removal (Tracker)
Remove/Install/Overhaul - Removal (Tracker)
Remove/Install/Overhaul - Removal (Tracker)
Replacement - Replace Throttle Position Sensor
Replacement - Replace Throttle Position Sensor
Showing 8 of 9 procedures
OEM Diagnostic Flowchart
Scroll to load technician if/then branches.
Read live data and freeze frame for P0221 to pinpoint the cause before buying parts.
TopScan
$51.27
DIYers who want phone-based scanning
View on TOPDON
ArtiLink600
$99
DIYers working on ABS/airbag systems
View on TOPDONGot a repair estimate for P0221? Check if the quote is fair before ordering parts.
Parts & Tools for This Job
Common parts shoppers buy for P0221 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor B Range/Performance.
Oxygen Sensor
Shop Amazon→
Spark Plugs
Shop Amazon→
Ignition Coils
Shop Amazon→
Mass Air Flow Sensor
Shop Amazon→
Fuel Injectors
Shop Amazon→
Engine Oil
Shop Amazon→
As an Amazon Associate, AllOEMManuals earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability may vary.
Turn This Into a Confident Next Step
Verify the likely fault first, then compare a quote before you approve expensive work.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
View factory recommended tools
OBD2 scanner
Read codes and freeze-frame data before you guess at the fault.
Most diagnostic jobs start with a scan tool and a verified code path.
Check SpecificationsBattery tester
Check cranking and charging health before replacing expensive parts.
A weak battery can mimic alternator or starter problems.
Check SpecificationsMultimeter kit
Confirm voltage, continuity, and sensor power with one simple kit.
A meter is the cheapest way to rule out a bad circuit fast.
Check SpecificationsRelated Resources
Repair guides, symptom pages, and wiring diagrams related to P0221.
OEM Manual Evidence
Browse →Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) Index — 2013 Audi A3 Premium, 2.0L Eng VIN E, Automatic DCT Trans Service Manual ~ LEMON Manuals LEMON Manua...
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) Index — 2013 Audi A3 Premium, 2.0L Eng VIN E, Automatic DCT Trans Service Manual ~ LEMON Manuals LEMON Manua...
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) Index — 2013 Audi A3 Premium, 2.0L Eng VIN E, Standard Trans Service Manual ~ LEMON Manuals LEMON Manuals: R...
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) Index — 2013 Audi A3 Premium, 2.0L Eng VIN E, Standard Trans Service Manual ~ LEMON Manuals LEMON Manuals: R...
Exact Vehicle Hubs
Browse →Open the exact vehicle hub grounded by OEM manual evidence related to P0221.
Open the exact vehicle hub grounded by OEM manual evidence related to P0221.
Related Codes
The secondary TPS (sensor B) has a circuit fault. Modern drive-by-wire systems use two TPS for redundancy.
TPS B voltage is too low.
The TPS reading does not match expected values based on MAP, RPM, and other inputs. Erratic readings indicate a worn TPS.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can cleaning the throttle body fix P0221?
- Sometimes yes — carbon buildup can prevent smooth operation and cause erratic TPS B readings.
- Is reduced power mode safe to drive in?
- Yes, but speed is limited. Drive directly to a shop or home for repair.
Find your service manual
Select your vehicle and check the available manual sections for your exact configuration.
Author & Review
Published by AllOEMManuals, founded by Lyndon Bedford, an automotive technician with 20 years of experience. He owned and operated a mechanic shop in Hurst, Texas from 2014 to 2022 and continues hands-on repair work.
Content may combine manual references, general repair templates, and AI-assisted drafting. Confirm the source, vehicle configuration, and applicability before working. Report corrections through our contact page.
Last updated: 2026-11-08