HomeTrouble CodesP2136

P2136 — Throttlepedal Position Sensorswitch Ac Voltage Correlation

Manufacturer-specificPowertrain (engine & transmission)

P2136 is set when the PCM detects that the voltage signals from two throttle‑pedal position sensor circuits (commonly labeled A and C) do not agree within the expected range. The mismatch can stem from a faulty sensor, damaged wiring, improper reference voltage, or a ground problem, and it forces the PCM into a reduced‑power mode to protect the engine.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Faulty throttle pedal position sensor

The sensor itself can develop internal resistance changes or mechanical wear, producing incorrect voltage signals that no longer correlate with the other circuit.

2. Wiring or connector damage

Open, shorted, or corroded wires and poor connector contacts can distort the voltage readings of the sensor circuit.

3. 5 V reference voltage fault

If the 5 V supply that powers the sensor is interrupted, grounded, or otherwise out of specification, both sensor signals will be erroneous.

4. Poor ground connection

Insufficient ground at the sensor or PCM can cause voltage offsets that make the two signals appear mismatched.

5. Accelerator‑pedal assembly defect

The pedal assembly houses both sensor circuits; physical damage or wear in the assembly can affect both signals simultaneously.

6. PCM failure (rare)

An internal fault in the PCM’s input circuitry can produce false correlation codes, but this is the least likely cause and should only be considered after all other sources are eliminated.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Retrieve all stored DTCs and freeze‑frame data with an OBD‑II scan tool.
  2. Visually inspect the throttle‑pedal/accelerator assembly and its wiring harness for damage, corrosion, or loose connectors.
  3. Measure the 5 V reference voltage and ground at the sensor connector; verify they are within specification.
  4. Monitor live sensor data for both circuits A and C; compare their voltages and look for abnormal differences.
  5. Perform continuity and resistance checks on the wiring between the PCM and the sensor to locate opens, shorts, or high‑resistance faults.
  6. Substitute or swap the suspect sensor with a known‑good unit to confirm it as the source if wiring and voltages are normal.
  7. If no fault is found after the above steps, verify PCM operation (e.g., reflash or bench‑test) as a last resort.

Code facts & related codes

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

Frequently asked

Is it safe to drive with P2136?

You can continue driving short distances, but the vehicle may be in a reduced‑power mode, experience poor throttle response, or stall. Prompt diagnosis and repair are recommended.

Will replacing the throttle pedal position sensor always fix the code?

Often yes, but the fault can also be in the wiring, connectors, 5 V supply, or ground. Proper verification of those items should be done before assuming the sensor is the sole cause.

I was told the PCM needs to be replaced for this code. Is that usually necessary?

No. PCM failures are an uncommon cause of P2136. In the vast majority of cases the issue lies with the sensor, its wiring, or its power/ground supplies. Only after all other possibilities are ruled out should PCM replacement be considered.

Can a bad ground or 5 V reference cause this code even if the sensor itself is good?

Yes. If the sensor’s reference voltage is out of spec or its ground is inadequate, the voltage signals will be incorrect, triggering a correlation code even when the sensor is functioning properly.