HomeTrouble CodesP2140

P2140 — Throttlepedal Position Sensorswitch Ef Voltage Correlation

Manufacturer-specificPowertrain (engine & transmission)

The code indicates that the Powertrain Control Module has detected a voltage discrepancy between the redundant ‘E’ and ‘F’ position sensors inside the accelerator pedal assembly. These sensors are designed to produce proportional, correlated signals as the pedal moves; when their readings diverge beyond calibrated limits, the fault stores and the system typically enters a reduced-power fail-safe mode.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Failed accelerator pedal position sensor assembly

Internal degradation of the dual Hall-effect or potentiometric sensors (E and F) causes them to output unequal or non-proportional voltages for a given pedal angle, breaking the required correlation.

2. Wiring harness damage or intermittent opens

Chafing against the pedal bracket, firewall, or floor pan can create opens or high-resistance paths in the 5-volt reference, ground, or signal circuits between the pedal and the PCM.

3. Connector corrosion or terminal issues

Moisture intrusion, oxidation, or backed-out pins in the pedal assembly connector or the PCM connector alter circuit resistance and distort the voltage signals seen by the control module.

4. Mechanical pedal binding

Foreign objects, carpet interference, or worn pivot bushings can cause the pedal to move unevenly, making the two internal sensors travel at different rates and triggering a correlation error.

5. (Rare) PCM internal fault

An extremely uncommon failure of the analog-to-digital converter or processing logic inside the control module can misinterpret valid sensor signals as a correlation error.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Retrieve freeze-frame data and graph live sensor voltages for E and F while slowly depressing the pedal; confirm they track proportionally without dropouts or spikes
  2. Visually inspect the pedal assembly, wiring loom, and connectors for chafing, corrosion, moisture, or damaged terminals
  3. Test the 5-volt reference circuit and sensor ground at the pedal connector with a digital multimeter to verify proper power and ground integrity
  4. Perform continuity and resistance checks on the signal wires between the pedal harness connector and the corresponding PCM pins
  5. Verify the pedal mechanism moves freely through its full range without binding, then clear codes and perform a road test; consider PCM evaluation only if all sensor and circuit tests pass

Code facts & related codes

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

Frequently asked

Is a faulty PCM usually the cause of P2140?

No. Despite frequent misdiagnosis, the root cause is almost always the pedal sensor assembly itself or a wiring issue. PCM failure is exceptionally rare for this specific correlation fault.

Can I drive safely with this code active?

The vehicle typically enters limp mode with severely restricted throttle response, which creates a safety hazard in traffic. Drive only as necessary to reach a repair facility.

Why are there two sensors (E and F) in the pedal?

The redundant sensors provide a safety cross-check; if one fails or sends an implausible signal compared to the other, the PCM defaults to reduced power to prevent unintended acceleration.

Must the entire pedal assembly be replaced?

Yes. The position sensors are usually integrated into the pedal module and are not serviced separately on most vehicles, requiring replacement of the complete accelerator pedal assembly.