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P2164 code meaning

Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor B Maximum Stop Performance

Powertrain system Generic code P21xx codes Check engine light

What P2164 means

P2164 is the full-travel test for position signal B. When the throttle or pedal is held at its upper stop, sensor B has to report a value inside a calibrated band; a reading or learned maximum outside that band sets the code. Ford and GM call their second throttle body sensor B, so on those designs the code points at the throttle body, yet no manufacturer documents P2164 publicly. The nearest evidence is Ford's listing of the A version P2163 and a Visteon patent that learns the open stop and rejects values beyond about 80 to 110 degrees. On many throttle bodies the second track runs opposite to the first, so comparing A and B at full opening helps to tell a sensor fault from a mechanical block. P2113 checks the closed stop of B; P0220-P0223 cover its circuit.

P2164 at a glance

  • Check engine lightYes, usually on
  • Emissions testCan fail
  • Limp modePossible
  • Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
  • Typical labor0.3 to 2 hours
  • Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner

Symptoms of P2164

  • Engine warning lamp on
  • Power limited at high throttle demand
  • Occasional limp mode

Common causes of P2164

  • Most likelySensor B track worn or drifted at the full-open end
  • PossibleDeposits or a damaged stop limit the plate travel
  • PossibleCorroded contact on the sensor B signal or reference pin
  • Less likelyEnd positions not relearned after part replacement

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 P2164 means

PPowertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission.
2Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make.
1Area: fuel and air metering.
64The exact fault in that area.

What to do next

  • Note P2164 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 P2164

What does P2164 mean?

P2164 means "Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor B Maximum Stop Performance". P2164 is the full-travel test for position signal B. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.

Is it safe to drive with P2164?

Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2164 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.

Will P2164 fail an emissions test?

Yes, it can. P2164 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 P2164 to fix?

Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.

Will P2164 clear itself after the repair?

Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.

Look up another code

Technical content: OBDex open OBD-II database (public domain, CC0), checked 3 Nov 2026, edited for US drivers by the VinGear team.
Technical sources for P2164