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P0223 = sensor B voltage stuck high. Either the signal wire is shorted to the 5V reference, the sensor ground is open, or the sensor itself has failed. Backprobe at the connector and watch live data while you sweep the throttle. See multimeters on Amazon ↑
🗺️ Where Is the Problem?
Blueprint view - P0223 secondary throttle/pedal sensor (B) signal stuck high
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 P0223 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.
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🎯 Top Causes & Probability
60%
#1 - Most Likely
Failed B Sensor (Shorted to Reference)
The internal sensor element has shorted, pulling the signal up to ~5V regardless of pedal position. Throttle body or pedal module replacement clears it. Common past 100k miles on drive-by-wire vehicles.
🔩 Part
$120–$400
👨🔧 Labor
$80–$160
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Easy
30%
#2 - Check First
Open Sensor Ground
If the sensor ground wire breaks open, the signal voltage floats up toward 5V. Backprobe the ground pin at the connector and verify continuity to PCM ground. Repair the open wire or terminal.
🔩 Part
$10–$60
👨🔧 Labor
$80–$200
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Medium
10%
#3 - Less Common
Signal Wire Shorted to 5V or Battery Voltage
A chafed harness can short the B-signal wire to a 5V reference or even battery voltage, slamming the reading to maximum. Visually inspect the harness from the sensor back through any clamps and pass-throughs.
🔩 Part
$10–$80
👨🔧 Labor
$120–$240
⚡ DIY Difficulty
Medium
🚗 Most Affected Vehicles
🔧 Step-by-Step Diagnosis
- Confirm with live data - Key-on, engine off: TPS/APP B voltage should be ~0.5V at rest and climb to ~4.5V at full throttle. P0223 sets when B stays at or above ~4.8V. If it's pinned high at rest, the circuit is shorted high or ground is open.
- Verify ground integrity at the sensor connector - Backprobe the ground pin and measure to battery negative - should read <0.1V drop. An open or high-resistance ground is a frequent P0223 root cause and an easy fix.
📍 Find a Trusted Shop Near You
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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