2012-2025 Evoque, E-Pace & Discovery Sport Accelerator Pedal: Fixing 'Restricted Performance'

Symptoms of a Failing Accelerator Pedal Assembly

When the accelerator pedal assembly begins to fail, your vehicle's computer will quickly detect the problem and take protective measures. The symptoms are often sudden and can be alarming, but they are designed to ensure safety.

• 'Restricted Performance' Warning (Limp Mode): This is the most common and definitive symptom. A 'Restricted Performance' message will appear on the dashboard, and engine power will be severely limited. The vehicle may struggle to exceed 20-30 mph. 🎬 See these helpful tips for Jaguar Restricted Performance warnings This safety mode is triggered because the computer can no longer trust the signals from the pedal and limits power to prevent sudden or uncontrolled acceleration.
• No Throttle Response: You may press the accelerator pedal and get no reaction from the engine at all. In some cases, particularly noted by Land Rover Discovery Sport owners, this can happen intermittently while driving or from a complete stop, and may require restarting the vehicle to temporarily resolve.
• Check Engine Light: A fault in the pedal's sensors will trigger the check engine light and store specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) in the vehicle's computer.
• Hesitation and Inconsistent Acceleration: The vehicle might hesitate, stumble, or surge unexpectedly. You might press the pedal, feel a delay, and then a sudden burst of power as the sensor momentarily works correctly.
• Rough or High Idle: A faulty sensor can send incorrect position data even when your foot is off the pedal, causing the engine to idle roughly or at a higher RPM than normal.

Common Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

If you're experiencing these symptoms, a scan tool will likely show one or more of the following codes. The most common code points to a disagreement between the pedal's internal sensors.

• P2138 - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D'/'E' Voltage Correlation: This is the most frequent code and directly indicates that the two internal pedal sensors are sending conflicting information to the computer.
• P2299 - Brake Pedal Position / Accelerator Pedal Position Incompatible: This code can be set if the computer sees signals from both the brake and accelerator at the same time, which can be caused by a faulty accelerator pedal sensor.
• P2122, P2123, P2127, P2128 - These codes point to circuit issues (low or high voltage) in one of the specific internal pedal sensors (Sensor 1/A or Sensor 2/B).

Buying a Used Accelerator Pedal Assembly: What to Check

Given the high cost of a new OEM pedal and the simple, uncalibrated nature of the part, a used OEM assembly is an excellent, cost-effective solution. Here’s what to look for to ensure you get a good part.

• Verify the Part Number: This is the most critical step. Jaguar Land Rover uses many visually similar pedals across different models and years. The only way to guarantee compatibility is to match the OEM part number from your original pedal to the replacement. The part number is typically on a sticker on the side of the plastic housing. Common part numbers include FK729F836AC, GK7M-9F836-BB, BJ32-9F836-AB, and LR159548.
• Inspect the Electrical Connector: Carefully examine the connector pins on the used assembly. They should be straight, clean, and free of any corrosion or damage. A bent or broken pin will render the part useless.
• Check the Pedal Pad: While not a perfect indicator, excessive wear on the pedal pad compared to the mileage of the donor vehicle might suggest a hard life. However, focus more on the part number and connector integrity.
• Why Used OEM is a Smart Choice: The original factory (OEM) pedals are built to JLR's exact electronic specifications. Many new aftermarket pedals are not available for these models, and those that are may not have the same precise sensor calibration, potentially causing performance issues. A tested, low-mileage used OEM part is often more reliable than a cheap, unproven aftermarket alternative.

Cost of Accelerator Pedal Assembly Replacement

Replacing the accelerator pedal is one of the more affordable repairs for these vehicles, especially if you do it yourself.

Installation Guide (DIY)

Replacing the accelerator pedal assembly is a straightforward job that most DIY mechanics can complete in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools.

• Difficulty: 1 out of 5
• Estimated Time: 0.5 hours
• Tools Needed: Ratchet with extension, socket set (typically 10mm or 13mm), trim removal tool (optional).

Step-by-Step Replacement

1. Safety First: Although not always required, it's good practice to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
2. Access the Pedal: The pedal is located in the driver's footwell. You may need to remove a small plastic trim panel near the pedal to gain clear access to the mounting bolts.
3. Disconnect the Electrical Connector: Press the release tab on the electrical connector at the top of the pedal assembly and pull it straight off.
4. Remove the Mounting Bolts/Nuts: The assembly is typically held to the firewall by two or three nuts or bolts. Use a ratchet to remove them.
5. Install the New Pedal: Position the new assembly and hand-tighten the nuts/bolts. Then, torque them to specification (if available, typically around 18 lb-ft or 25 Nm). Do not overtighten.
6. Reconnect and Test: Plug the electrical connector back in until it clicks. If you disconnected the battery, reconnect it. Turn the ignition on and press the pedal to ensure the 'Restricted Performance' message is gone and throttle response has returned.

Known Issues, Recalls & TSBs

There are no active recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the electronic failure of this specific accelerator pedal assembly on the 2012-2023 Range Rover Evoque, 2018-2020 Jaguar E-Pace, or 2020-2025 Land Rover Discovery Sport.

Jaguar Land Rover has issued past service actions for physical pedal placement on other models, such as incorrect spacing between the brake and accelerator pedals, but these do not relate to the electronic sensor failure discussed here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)