P2131 code meaning
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch F Circuit Range/Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P21xx codes Check engine light
What P2131 means
P2131 means pedal track F is electrically intact but disagrees with the rest of the pedal. Two makers document it for three-track pedals. GM's 2004-2005 truck tables scale APP sensor 3 to the range of the other tracks and set P2131 only when it strays more than 0.26 V from each of the other two sensors, so the majority vote singles out track F; the counter runs every 3 ms and trips at 167 (Type C in 2004, Type A in 2005). Ford's 2012 summary sets it on second-generation ETC when F departs from the others by over 1.1 degrees, lighting the wrench lamp without MIL. Circuit faults on F are P2130 and P2132-P2134. The car stays drivable; the ECU follows the two healthy tracks and softens pedal response.
P2131 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyEasy, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.3 to 1.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P2131
- Wrench or engine warning lamp on
- Softened, slower acceleration
- Often no noticeable change while driving
Common causes of P2131
- Most likelyWorn or dirty track F giving an offset reading
- PossibleContact resistance at the pedal connector
- Less likelyBent pedal bracket or binding mechanism distorting one track
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Throttle position sensorAccelerator pedal position sensor
What each part of P2131 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 1 | Area: fuel and air metering. |
| 31 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2131 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 P2131
What does P2131 mean?
P2131 means "Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch F Circuit Range/Performance". P2131 means pedal track F is electrically intact but disagrees with the rest of the pedal. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2131?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2131 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2131 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2131 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 P2131 to fix?
Difficulty: easy. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 1.5 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P2131 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.