📟
P0220 is on the secondary sensor - not the primary. Drive-by-wire vehicles (2003+) use two sensors per throttle body and per pedal for redundancy. P0220 covers the ‘B’ circuit only (P0120–P0123 cover the ‘A’ circuit). Live data on a Bluetooth OBD2 scanner shows both sensors side-by-side. See top-rated scanners on Amazon ↑
🗺️ Where Is the Problem?
Blueprint view - P0220 secondary throttle/pedal sensor (B) circuit fault on drive-by-wire system
These are statistical causes across ALL vehicles - your exact car may rank differently
For example, on a Honda 4-cyl the downstream O2 sensor causes P0220 64% of the time, but on a GM 5.3L V8 the catalytic converter is the cause 71% of the time. Get a probability ranking built specifically for your year, make, model, and mileage.
🔎 Get the ranking for my exact car - $5.99 →
🎯 Top Causes & Probability
60%
#1 - Most Likely
Failed Throttle Body (TPS-B Circuit)
On most modern drive-by-wire vehicles, the ‘B’ sensor lives inside the electronic throttle body and isn't serviceable separately. A failed B circuit usually means the whole throttle body assembly needs replacement.
🔩 Part
$120–$400
👨🔧 Labor
$80–$200
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Easy
30%
#2 - Check First
Wiring or Connector Fault at TPS-B / APP-B
Corroded pins, a chafed harness, or backed-out terminals at the throttle body or accelerator pedal connector are common. Inspect with a meter for proper 5V reference and clean ground at the sensor connector.
🔩 Part
$10–$60
👨🔧 Labor
$60–$140
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Easy
10%
#3 - Less Common
Failed Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Module
If the ‘B’ sensor is on the pedal (APP) and not the throttle body, the pedal module itself may have failed. Replacement pedal assemblies are typically $80–$250 and bolt in.
🔩 Part
$80–$250
👨🔧 Labor
$60–$120
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Easy
🚗 Most Affected Vehicles
🔧 Step-by-Step Diagnosis
- Confirm the code & check live data - Use an OBD2 scanner to confirm P0220 is current. Watch live data for both APP/TPS A and B at idle and full throttle - A and B should track each other proportionally.
- Inspect the sensor connector and wiring - Locate the throttle body or accelerator pedal connector. Backprobe pins for a steady 5V reference, clean ground, and a smooth signal sweep. Wiggle test for intermittent breaks.
📍 Find a Trusted Shop Near You
Please enter a valid 5-digit ZIP code.
Tips for Choosing a Shop
- Ask if they charge a diagnostic fee and whether it applies toward the repair
- Request a written estimate before approving any work
- Ask specifically about the part brand - OEM vs. aftermarket matters for this code
- Check Google reviews for recent mentions of the specific repair you need