HomeTrouble CodesP2133

P2133 — Throttlepedal Position Sensorswitch F Circuit High

Manufacturer-specificPowertrain (engine & transmission)

Code P2133 indicates that the engine computer has detected a higher than normal voltage on the 'F' signal circuit of the accelerator pedal position sensor. This high voltage disrupts the redundant signal the computer uses to track pedal position, often forcing the vehicle into a reduced power or limp mode to prevent unintended acceleration.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Failed accelerator pedal position sensor

Internal circuit failure within the sensor itself can cause the signal line to short to voltage or lose its ground reference, resulting in a high voltage reading.

2. Wiring short to voltage

The signal wire for the 'F' circuit may be chafed or melted against a power source, causing the engine computer to read a constant high voltage.

3. Open or corroded ground circuit

If the sensor loses its ground connection, the signal circuit voltage can float high, triggering this code.

4. Poor electrical connection

Corroded, pushed-out, or loose terminals in the pedal sensor connector can alter the circuit resistance and cause a false high voltage signal.

5. Failed PCM/ECM

An internal failure within the engine computer's reference circuit or pull-down resistor is possible but extremely rare.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Scan for additional throttle or pedal position codes to see if other signal circuits are affected, which helps pinpoint wiring versus sensor issues.
  2. Visually inspect the accelerator pedal position sensor connector and wiring harness for damage, corrosion, or pin fitment issues.
  3. Disconnect the pedal sensor and use a multimeter to verify that the reference voltage and ground circuits at the connector are within specification.
  4. With the sensor connected, back-probe the 'F' signal circuit while operating the pedal to observe the voltage range and confirm if it goes abnormally high.
  5. Perform a wiggle test on the wiring harness while monitoring the 'F' circuit voltage to locate intermittent shorts or open grounds.

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationManufacturer-specific (P1/B1/C1/U1)

Frequently asked

Can I drive with a P2133 code?

It is not recommended. The vehicle will likely be in limp mode, severely limiting speed and acceleration, which is dangerous in traffic. The underlying issue could also cause unpredictable throttle behavior.

Does P2133 mean my throttle body is bad?

No. This code specifically refers to the accelerator pedal position sensor circuit, not the throttle body. The pedal sensor sends the input, while the throttle body acts on it.

Will replacing the PCM/ECM fix P2133?

Rarely. Drivers and mechanics are frequently told to replace the PCM for this code, but that is almost always incorrect. The cause is overwhelmingly a failed pedal position sensor or a wiring/connector issue. The PCM should only be considered after all sensor and wiring possibilities have been thoroughly eliminated.

What does 'Circuit High' mean in this code?

It means the voltage on the specific signal wire is higher than the normal operating range expected by the engine computer. This commonly happens when a wire shorts to power or when the sensor loses its ground connection.