Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch C Circuit Intermittent
What it means
The engine computer has detected brief dropouts or implausible jumps in the C signal within the throttle or accelerator pedal sensor system. The most common cause is a poor electrical connection affected by vibration or heat, which can cause sudden, temporary power loss.
Symptoms4
- Check engine light that comes on and goes off.
- Temporary power loss or limp mode that comes and goes.
- Jerking or stumbling during acceleration.
- The fault may clear after restarting the engine.
Possible causes5
- Loose connector or a spread terminal inside it.
- Damaged wire inside the harness that opens with movement or heat.
- Terminal corrosion from moisture.
- Intermittent wear in the track of the sensor carrying the C signal.
- Failed pedal assembly or throttle body assembly.
How to diagnose5
- Use the service information to identify which sensor carries the C signal and its wiring route.
- Graph the signal with an oscilloscope or watch it on a scan tool while wiggling the wiring and connector.
- Check terminal tension and look for any spread or corroded terminal.
- Move the pedal or throttle slowly through the full range to find a dropout at a certain position.
- Review the freeze frame data to see the driving conditions when the code set.
How to fix5
- Tighten or replace the terminals, or replace the whole connector.
- Repair the damaged wire and secure the harness.
- Clean corroded terminals and protect them from moisture.
- Replace the pedal sensor or throttle body assembly if the dropout is proven inside it, then perform the relearn.
- Clear the codes, then road test on varied roads and confirm the code does not return.
Repair cost
In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.
The cost is usually low because the cause is a poor connection or wire, and it rises if the dropout is inside the pedal sensor or throttle body assembly.
Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026
Frequently asked questions
Why does the code appear and then disappear?
Because the fault happens briefly with vibration or heat and then the connection returns, so the computer stores the code even though the fault is not present during testing.
How can I help the technician find it?
Note when the power loss happens, such as over bumps, when hot or at a certain pedal position; this information shortens the search.
Is it dangerous to drive with this code?
Sudden power loss can be dangerous on highways, so drive with care and repair it soon.
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What was wrong? (optional)
This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.
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