P215A

Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor A/B Voltage Correlation

P215A is a generic OBD-II powertrain diagnostic trouble code: Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor A/B Voltage Correlation. It is logged by the engine control unit when the powertrain monitor detects that a specific fault threshold has been exceeded — typically resulting in the malfunction-indicator lamp (MIL / check-engine light) being illuminated.

Code
P215A
Group
Powertrain
System
Powertrain
Severity
Warning (MIL on, possible limp mode)
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What P215A means

P215A is set when the ECM detects that the voltage outputs from throttle position sensor (TPS) circuit A and circuit B do not correlate within the expected tolerance. Modern electronic throttle control (ETC) systems use two redundant sensor tracks wired in opposing directions so the ECM can cross-check their signals in real time.

When the two signals diverge beyond the calibrated threshold, the ECM cannot determine which sensor is reporting correctly and defaults to a safe, reduced-power operating state. This is a fundamental safety mechanism designed to prevent unintended acceleration or a stuck-open throttle condition.

Common triggers include worn throttle position sensor tracks, wiring faults between the throttle body and ECM, connector corrosion, or a failed throttle body assembly. The fault may be intermittent if caused by a loose connector or a marginal sensor that only fails under vibration or temperature extremes.

Common causes

Most-frequently reported root causes when P215A is logged.

  • 1
    Worn or damaged dual-track throttle position sensor inside the throttle body.
  • 2
    Open, short, or high resistance in the TPS signal wiring harness.
  • 3
    Corroded or backed-out terminals in the throttle body connector.
  • 4
    Failed electronic throttle body assembly requiring replacement.
  • 5
    Intermittent ground fault affecting one of the two sensor circuits.
  • 6
    ECM internal fault causing incorrect voltage reading on one channel.
  • 7
    Water intrusion into the throttle body connector causing tracking between pins.

Symptoms drivers notice

Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminated.
Reduced engine power or limp-home mode activated.
Hesitation or erratic throttle response during acceleration.
Engine may idle roughly or hunt for stable idle speed.
Possible refusal to rev above a set RPM limit.

How to diagnose P215A

A typical diagnostic flow when this code is present.

  1. 1
    Connect a scan tool and record all stored DTCs and freeze-frame data before clearing.
  2. 2
    View live TPS A and TPS B voltage data; both channels should move smoothly and inversely as the throttle is swept.
  3. 3
    Inspect the throttle body wiring harness and connector for corrosion, pushed-back pins, or chafing.
  4. 4
    Measure the reference voltage (typically 5 V) and ground integrity at the throttle body connector with the harness connected.
  5. 5
    Wiggle the harness while monitoring live data to check for intermittent drops or spikes on either channel.
  6. 6
    If wiring is intact, replace the electronic throttle body assembly and relearn the throttle position.
  7. 7
    Clear codes, perform a throttle relearn procedure per manufacturer specification, and road-test to verify the repair.

Related powertrain codes

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive with P215A active?

Short distances in limp mode may be possible, but the reduced power condition makes the vehicle unsafe for normal driving. Diagnose and repair promptly.

Will cleaning the throttle body fix P215A?

Carbon buildup rarely causes a correlation fault. The fault is electronic; cleaning is unlikely to resolve it unless debris is physically obstructing the sensor.

Is P215A the same as P0120 or P0220?

No. P0120 and P0220 flag individual circuit faults on sensor A or B respectively, while P215A specifically indicates a mismatch between the two channels.

Does P215A require a throttle relearn after repair?

Yes. After replacing the throttle body or disconnecting the battery, the ECM requires a throttle position relearn procedure to establish new minimum and maximum reference points.

Disabling P215A in software

RaceTune can permanently disable P215A — and any other OBD-II diagnostic trouble code — on every ECU family we support. The monitor is disabled inside the ECU itself, so the fault stops being logged: the warning light stays off and the engine never enters limp mode for this code. The change is tied to your exact software version.

Permanent
The monitor is disabled in the ECU itself — not just cleared. It cannot return.
Tailored to your file
Each patch is matched to your specific software version — never a one-size-fits-all file.
Reversible
The original file is always preserved. Reflash the stock to return the ECU to factory state.

Software modifications affect emissions compliance and are not road-legal in many jurisdictions. RaceTune service files are intended for motorsport, off-road, and export use.

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