What it means
The voltage signals of throttle/pedal position channels C and G do not correlate within the calibrated tolerance. One sensor element drifted or harness shows offset between channels.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
Throttle and pedal position systems can use several sensor channels so the control module can check driver demand and throttle movement for agreement. This code specifically means channels C and G disagree beyond the calibrated tolerance, which can indicate sensor drift or an electrical offset between their circuits.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Sensor channel C or G drifted
- Harness offset between channels
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Reduced throttle response, possible limp mode
- Hesitation or surging
- Idle too high or too low
How to diagnose it
- Save freeze-frame data and read channels C and G with a scan tool while slowly pressing and releasing the accelerator; look for a mismatch or a channel that jumps.
- With the ignition off, inspect the pedal and throttle sensor connectors and harnesses for loose pins, corrosion, chafing, or damage.
- Check for related throttle or pedal position codes that may point to a shared supply, ground, or wiring problem.
- Monitor both channels while gently moving their harnesses to reveal an intermittent offset or dropout.
- Test the channel C and G signal, supply, and ground circuits against the manufacturer's specification before condemning a sensor or module.
Common fixes
- Reseat or clean loose or corroded connectors serving the affected position sensor circuits.
- Repair damaged wiring, shared supply, or ground connections causing the C-to-G mismatch.
- Replace the pedal or throttle position sensor assembly identified by testing if its channels drift out of agreement.
Can I keep driving?
Reduced or unpredictable throttle response can make merging and crossing traffic unsafe, so avoid driving if acceleration is unreliable or the vehicle enters limp mode. If response remains normal, limit the trip and arrange prompt repair because the fault can worsen or trigger a no-start/limited-power condition.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.