U0681 code meaning
Lost Communication With Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch D
Network system Generic code U06xx codes Check engine light
What U0681 means
In the generic code scheme the letters D, E and F normally mark the accelerator pedal tracks, while A to C and G belong to throttle bodies. U0681 is meant for a pedal module whose first track D reports digitally, for example over SENT or SPC as offered by Melexis' MLX90377 position IC, which lists pedal sensors as an application and comes as a fully redundant dual die. No manufacturer documents U0681 publicly. Ford (2024 gasoline) and GM read pedal D analog: Ford sets P2122/P2123 below 0.25 or above 4.75 V within a second, with wrench lamp and MIL. Ford also explains the fallback when one pedal input is lost: driver demand follows the remaining track at a limited rate. CARB requires pedal and redundant pedal position in the diesel data stream.
U0681 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 U0681
- Check engine light and possibly a powertrain warning
- Sluggish, rate-limited throttle response
- Reduced power
Common causes of U0681
- Most likelyWiring to the pedal module chafed in the footwell or at the bulkhead
- PossiblePedal module connector loose or corroded
- PossibleSensor electronics in the pedal module failed (replaced as a unit)
- Less likelyEngine controller input or software fault
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Throttle pedal sensor dVehicle bus wiring
What each part of U0681 means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 81 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U0681 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 U0681
What does U0681 mean?
U0681 means "Lost Communication With Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch D". In the generic code scheme the letters D, E and F normally mark the accelerator pedal tracks, while A to C and G belong to throttle bodies. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U0681?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With U0681 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will U0681 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. U0681 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 U0681 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 U0681 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.