What it means
The ECM detects a circuit high fault on the throttle valve intake air pressure sensor circuit. Reading cannot be used reliably for control.
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
The throttle valve intake air pressure sensor measures pressure in the intake passage at the throttle valve, providing the ECM with information for airflow control. This code sets when the circuit signal is too high; an open circuit, a short to voltage, or an internal sensor fault can make the reading unusable.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Signal circuit shorted to voltage
- Open circuit
- Sensor internal fault
Symptoms
- Check-engine light
- Rough idle or hesitation
- Reduced engine power
How to diagnose it
- Record freeze-frame data and check the live sensor signal for a high or implausible reading compared with other intake data.
- Inspect the sensor connector and harness for a disconnected plug, broken signal wire, damaged insulation, or a signal wire shorted to voltage.
- Check the sensor port and pressure passage for visible blockage or disconnection that could make the reading inconsistent with actual intake conditions.
- Test the sensor supply, ground, and signal circuit for opens and shorts to voltage using the manufacturer's specification.
- If the circuit checks out, verify that the sensor output changes appropriately with intake pressure before replacing it.
Common fixes
- Reconnect a loose or disconnected sensor plug.
- Repair an open signal wire or a short to voltage in the harness.
- Clean a blocked sensor port or restore a disconnected pressure passage if found.
- Replace the sensor if its signal stays high with a verified supply, ground, and signal circuit.
Can I keep driving?
If the engine hesitates or power is reduced, avoid hard acceleration, overtaking, and busy roads until the fault is diagnosed. An unreliable pressure signal can lead the ECM to manage airflow poorly and may cause further drivability problems.
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.