P0228 code meaning
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch C Circuit High
Powertrain system Generic code P02xx codes Check engine light
What P0228 means
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. P0228 means the signal of sensor C is above its upper limit – typically an open sensor ground, which pulls the signal up to the reference, or a signal wire shorted to voltage. The module discards sensor C and runs in limp mode with limited power. Ford reports low and high faults of its digital sensor C as U2111/U2112 instead, so no manufacturer using exactly this code was found; the description follows CARB's input monitoring requirement and the sensor A/B siblings.
P0228 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P0228
- Check engine light (Ford also the wrench light)
- Limp mode with limited power
- Delayed or missing throttle response
- Rough or raised idle
Common causes of P0228
- Most likelySensor ground (low reference) open
- PossibleSignal wire shorted to 5 V or system voltage
- PossibleSensor C or throttle body faulty
- PossibleConnector corroded or water ingress
- Less likelyEngine module faulty
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Throttle position sensor cElectronic throttle bodySensor wiring
What each part of P0228 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 2 | Area: fuel and air metering (injector circuit). |
| 28 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0228 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P0228
What does P0228 mean?
P0228 means "Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch C Circuit High". Sensor C is a third throttle or pedal position signal; its role depends on the manufacturer. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0228?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P0228 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P0228 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P0228 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P0228 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2.5 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P0228 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.