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P2165 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

OBD Code P2165 - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor C Maximum Stop Performance

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Check engine light flashing on? Don’t know what to do? Well, Parts Avatar has a solution! Here’s all you need to know about the error code P2165. This OBD-II code P2165 is determined as a throttle/pedal position sensor "C" maximum stop performance. It can be seen that the throttle position sensor/switch is situated on the throttle body of the intake manifold whereas the pedal position sensor/switch is part of the accelerator pedal assembly. These sensors perform the function of informing the engine control module (PCM) about speed desired by the driver and also how quickly it needs to get up to speed. It is only when the PCM identifies a malfunction within this sensor or the circuit for the sensor, it sets the code P2165. At times, the PCM also restricts the speed of the vehicle to 20 miles per hour or less ("limp home mode") in order to protect the engine and the driver. All this is done because of the control module’ inadequacy to accurately detect the engine performance being requested.

Learn More About OBD Error Code P2165

It should be noted that, when the PCM notifies a maximum stop/wide open throttle position sensor voltage signal (from the sensor designated C) that fails to match the programmed parameter, the code P2165 is stored. At times, the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminates too. The PCM generally enters the ‘limp in mode’. The engine acceleration gets restricted in this mode.


What causes this problem with the Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor C Maximum Stop Performance?


  • A damaged TPS or PPS
  • The circuits between the TPS, PPS and the PCM open or shorted
  • Short circuited electrical connectors
  • A possible fault in the DBW actuator motor

Replace/Repair These Parts To Fix OBD Code P2165

  1. Powertrain Control Module - This essential unit if damaged can cause erratic engine performance and sluggish engine start. We recommend you to change it as soon as possible in order to overcome these complications caused by the error code P2165.
  2. Throttle Position Sensor - A delay in engine response is the most common problem caused due to a defective throttle position sensor. In order to get rid of these problems and the error code P2165, it is essential to repair or replace the throttle position sensor.
  3. Throttle Position Switch - Electrical problems and vacuum leaks are likely to follow a damaged throttle position switch. In order to get rid of the problems and the error code P2165, change or replace the faulty throttle position switch.
  4. Throttle Body - See dirt and grime all around the housing? Well, not only this, a distorted throttle body can lead to error code P2165 but also cause interruption in the flow of air/fuel. Mend or restore your now in order to avoid further complications caused by the error code.
  5. Intake Manifold - Observing a coolant leak? This is one of the after effects of a malfunctioning intake manifold. Mend or restore your intake manifold if you want to save your time and money from expensive after repairs.
  6. Engine Control Module - A jammed or unsound engine control module may cause the vehicle to intermittently have issues such as stalling or misfires. Repair or replace it in order to get rid of these problems.
  7. Pedal Position Switch - Having problems with the pedal position switch? Engine not running efficiently? No acceleration? No worries, we are here to help! Tune into Parts Avatar to get your new pedal position switch right at your doorstep.
  8. Electrical Connectors - Corroded electrical connectors cause problems ranging from a loss of electrical power to corrosion in the battery. It is highly essential to change this part right away if faulty.
  9. Dbw Actuator Motor - Stressed? Tired of these engine stalls and throttle hesitancies? Can’t take it anymore? Then you should change your DWB actuator motor. Buy your DWB actuator motor from Parts Avatar if you’re looking for premium quality products.
  10. Automatic Transmission Parts - Facing the error code P2165? Inferior quality automatic transmission parts can always be hazardous and cause grinding or shaking in the gear system. Tune into Parts Avatar for supreme quality automatic transmission parts at economical prices.
  11. Fuel Shutoff Valve - A faulty fuel shutoff valve can cause a jamming the fuel pump. In order to maintain a proper functioning of the fuel pump, repair or replace your fuel shutoff valve immediately.
  12. Digital Voltmeter - Now get your error code P2165 fixed with a new digital voltmeter. Odd noises and electrical issues are likely to follow a broken digital voltmeter. Repair or replace now in order to fix this issue.
  13. Ohmmeter - Love travelling? But hate these halts? If you notice inaccurate readings or dim and flickering gauges. Repair or replace it now.
  14. Throttle Actuator Motor - Error code P2165? Well, a malfunctioning throttle actuator motor can be harmful as it triggers an engine stall. The driver may also observe a significant fall in the fuel economy. Apart from this, the throttle actuator motor also helps the actuator maintain the overall efficiency of the engine. Repair or replace yours in order to get rid of these problems caused by the error code P2165. Tune into Parts Avatar.
  15. Accelerator Pedal Position Assembly - An inoperative in the accelerator pedal position assembly can often invite problems like erratic engine behaviour or result in an inefficient engine. Now get your new accelerator pedal position assembly right at your doorstep with Parts Avatar. What are you waiting for?

Symptoms Of OBD Error Code P2165

Willing to know some common symptoms of OBD Code P2165? Your wish is our demand. Have a look at them below:


Common Symptoms


  • Inadequate throttle response
  • Restricted or no acceleration
  • Engine stalling (when idling)
  • Reluctance during acceleration
  • A failed cruise control

How To Correct P2165 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor C Maximum Stop Performance

We have listed out so ways which would help you to correct the occurrence of OBD Code P2165. They are mentioned here as follows:


  • Repair or replace a malfunctioning TPS or PPS
  • Replacements or repairs should be performed of the shorted or loose electrical connectors
  • Mend or change a damaged DBW actuator motor
  • All the circuits between the TPS, PPS and the PCM that are corroded or open should be repaired or replaced


There is no need to get strained if your OBD Code is still flashing up as we are here at your service. Have a look at our superior variety of PCM, throttle position sensor, throttle position switch, throttle body, intake manifold, accelerator pedal assembly, engine control module, pedal position sensor, pedal position switch, electrical connectors, Dbw actuator motor, connectors, automatic transmission, fuel shutoff valve, digital volt, ohmmeter, throttle actuator motor, accelerator pedal position assembly and many more. Now all your problems would vanish within no time.

Easy Diagnosis Of Engine Error OBD Code P2165

If you want to easily diagnose this fault code, then all you have to do is to follow the steps which are mentioned below:


Firstly, the vehicle information source should be reviewed for technical service bulletins (TSB) that match the make, model, and engine size of the vehicle. All the symptoms and codes stored should also parallel. Also, if a matching TSB is found, it will help you dramatically while performing the diagnosis. The diagnosis for a code P2165 should generally begin with a visual inspection of all the wiring and connectors related to the system. Inspect the throttle plate for any traces of carbon buildup or damage. The carbon should be cleaned from the throttle body according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Then repair or restore all the faulty wiring or components as per the requirements. Next, the DBW system should be retested.

A diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source is all that will be needed to accurately diagnose this code. The next step should be to connect the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port to retrieve all stored trouble codes. All of these codes retrieved should be recorded, as they prove to be extremely helpful while diagnosing the error code (especially if the code is intermittent). The codes stored should be cleared and the vehicle should be test driven to see if the code is resets. If in case, the code reappears in no time, the, voltage spikes and inconsistencies between the TPS, PPS, and the PCM should be detected utilizing the scanner data stream. The data course should be narrowed down to display only the pertinent data for a rapid response. Also, if no spikes and/or inconsistencies are detected at all, the DVOM should be used to restore all the live data at each of the sensor signal wires.

Now, to restore the live data with the DVOM, you should connect the positive test lead to the appropriate signal wire and the ground test lead to the ground circuit, then observe the DVOM display while its operating the DBW.

After that investigate for spikes in voltage as the throttle is activates slowly from the closed position to wide open throttle. The voltage should range from .5-volts at closed throttle to 4.5-volts at wide open throttle. It is advised to refer to the vehicle information source for exact specifications. Suspect that the sensor being tested is damaged, if spikes or other irregularities are found. For performing the sensor operations, an oscilloscope can prove to be quite helpful. If the sensor functions as per the requirements, all the related controllers should be disconnected to test the individual circuits with the DVOM. All the system wiring diagrams and connector pinout charts can be quite helpful in establishing the circuits that should be tested with their locations on the vehicle.

Mend or replace system circuits if needed. A damaged PCM or a PCM programming error should be suspected, if all system sensors and circuits are found to be working on order. Most of the times, a number of manufacturers might need that the throttle body, throttle actuator motor and all throttle position sensors should be replaced as a single unit.


Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P2165 Code


Here we have listed a few common mistakes that should be avoided:


  • A failed accelerator pedal position (APP) assembly
  • Malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM)
  • A damaged throttle position sensor (TPS)
  • Wiring problems

Other Diagnostic Codes Related To OBD Code P2165

P2163 - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor "A" Maximum Stop Performance

P2164 - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor "B" Maximum Stop Performance

P2166 - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor "D" Maximum Stop Performance

P2167 - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor "E" Maximum Stop Performance

P2168 - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor "F" Maximum Stop Performance