P0221 — Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch B Circuit Range/Performance

What Does P0221 Mean?

P0221 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch B Circuit Range/Performance. This code relates to the fuel injection system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 3 different vehicle models.

Symptoms of P0221

⚠️ Check engine light illuminated
⚠️ Sluggish acceleration
⚠️ Unusual vibrations
⚠️ Traction control system activated
⚠️ Vehicle enters limp/reduced power mode

Common Causes

🔍 Throttle body or throttle position sensor issue
🔍 Wiring or connector problem

P0221 Reports by Year

2014

2

2017

1

2015

1

2016

1

2010

1

Real Owner Reports

From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.

"CHEVY TRAVERSE 2010 WITH 74K MILES. DRIVING VEHICLE ON HIGHWAY DURING MORNING TRAFFIC. VEHICLE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, SERVICE STABILITRAK WARNING, TRACTION CONTROL OFF WARNING, AND REDUCED ENGINE POWER WARNING. VEHICLE SUDDENLY REDUCED ENGINE POWER FROM 65MPH TO 25MPH. PULLED VEHICLE OVER A"
— Chevrolet Traverse owner, 12/29/2014

"VEHICLE HAD ERROR MESSAGES, SERVICE TRACTION CONTROL, TRACTION CONTROL IS OFF, SERVICE STABILITRAX, ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED. VEHICLE WAS SLOW TO ACCELERATE AND EXPERIENCED DECREASED SPEED. VEHICLE VIBRATING WHILE IDLING. WAS TOLD BY DEALER NOT TO CONTINUE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE BECAUSE OTHERS WITH "
— Chevrolet Traverse owner, 02/09/2015

"THE FIRST TIME THIS HAPPENED, I WAS DRIVING A HILLY BACK ROAD FROM SCHOOL THE SERVICE STABILITRAC AND TRACTION CONTROL WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON THEN THE ENGINE POWER IS BEING REDUCED WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR IMMEDIATELY SLOWED TO A CRAWL WITH VERY LITTLE STEERING CONTROL. I WAS ABLE TO DRIV"
— Chevrolet Traverse owner, 10/06/2014

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

Most Reported Vehicles for P0221

Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.

#	Vehicle	Reports
1	CHEVROLET TRAVERSE
2	HYUNDAI SONATA
3	VOLKSWAGEN CC

P0221 Reports by Vehicle

Detailed NHTSA complaint analysis for each vehicle model.

CHEVROLET TRAVERSE

4 NHTSA reports · Peak: 2011, 2010

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with this code?

It depends on the severity. If the vehicle runs normally, short trips are usually OK. If you notice performance issues, drivability problems, or warning lights beyond the check engine light, get it checked soon.

Will this code clear itself?

Some codes clear automatically after the underlying issue is fixed and several drive cycles pass. But the root cause must be addressed first.

How do I find the exact cause?

A code alone doesn't pinpoint the failed part. You need a diagnostic scan ($50-150 at most shops) that reads freeze frame data and live sensor readings to identify the specific component.

What To Do Next

Possible Fixes

🔧 Have the code scanned with a professional-grade scanner to read freeze frame data
🔧 Test the relevant sensor(s) with a multimeter before replacing
🔧 Inspect wiring harness and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose connections
🔧 If DIY repair isn't feasible, get a diagnostic from a trusted mechanic ($50-150)

1
Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
2
Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
3
Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.

P0221: Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch B Circuit Range/Performance