The Mechanic Online Reference

Apr 17, 2018

Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor

Checking Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor

The APP sensor is an input to the powertrain control module (PCM) and is used to determine the torque demand. There are 3 pedal position signals in the sensor. Signal 1, APPS1, has a negative slope (increasing angle, decreasing voltage) and signals 2 and 3, APPS2 and APPS3, both have a positive slope (increasing angle, increasing voltage). During normal operation APPS1 is used as the indication of pedal position by the strategy. The 3 pedal position signals make sure the PCM receives a correct input even if 1 signal has a concern. There are 2 reference voltage circuits and 2 signal return circuits for the sensor. For additional information, refer to Torque Based Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) in this section.

Testing



  1. Disconnect the accelerator pedal position sensor connector.
  1. Using an ohmmeter, measure the resistance between terminal VC and E2.
  1. Reconnect the accelerator pedal position sensor connector. Resistance should be 1.2-3.2 kohms at 68°F (20°C).
  1. If the resistance is not as specified, replace the accelerator pedal position sensor.