P0222 on 2012-2014 Chrysler 300 6.4L SRT: Throttle Body Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2012-2014 Chrysler 300

For this generation of Chrysler 300 and other LX platform vehicles (Charger, Challenger) with the 6.4L Hemi, the dual throttle position sensors are integrated into the electronic throttle body assembly and are not sold as separate parts. This means a sensor failure requires replacing the entire throttle body. Additionally, Chrysler has issued several Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for related models suggesting that the original PCM software can be overly sensitive and falsely trigger this code, making a software check a critical first step before replacing hardware. A critical distinction exists within this year range: the 2012 model uses a different throttle body part number than the 2013-2014 models.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Red Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) 'lightning bolt' warning light is illuminated or flashing
• Vehicle enters 'limp mode' with drastically reduced engine power
• Poor, delayed, or non-existent acceleration
• Hesitation or stumbling when pressing the gas pedal
• Rough or unstable idle
• Engine may stall or be hard to start

Most Likely Causes

1. Failed Electronic Throttle Body Assembly 🔴 High Probability The internal electronic throttle position sensors are a common wear item on this platform. Since they are integrated into the throttle body, the entire unit must be replaced when they fail.
   How to confirm: Using a scan tool with live data, monitor the voltage for TPS1 and TPS2. As the throttle is manually opened (with engine off, key on), both voltages should sweep smoothly. With P0222, TPS2 voltage will likely be stuck at a very low value (e.g., <0.5V) and will not change.
   Typical fix: Replace the entire electronic throttle body assembly. A throttle relearn procedure must be performed after installation. 🎬 Watch: How to perform a Hemi throttle position calibration relearn
   Est. part cost: $250-$450
2. Outdated Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software 🟡 Medium Probability Chrysler has released multiple TSBs for similar models stating the original software logic is overly sensitive and can falsely set P0222 and other related codes.
   How to confirm: A Chrysler dealership or a well-equipped independent shop can check your vehicle's VIN against the TSB database to see if a software update is available. TSB 18-045-16 REV. A is a key example for 2015 6.4L models that shows this pattern.
   Typical fix: Reprogram the PCM with the latest software calibration using the wiTECH diagnostic application. This is a dealer/shop-level repair.
   Est. part cost: $0 (if under warranty) - $200
3. Wiring Harness or Connector Issue ⚪ Low Probability The wiring harness connector at the throttle body is subject to engine heat and vibration, which can lead to corrosion, backed-out pins, or chafed wires over time.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the 6-pin connector and surrounding wires at the throttle body. Check for a secure connection, pushed-out pins, green/white corrosion, or any signs of melting or damage to the insulation.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wiring harness or clean/replace the connector pigtail. Ensure the connector is fully seated with the locking tab engaged.
   Est. part cost: $15-$50

Rare But Worth Checking

• Failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM): This is very rare. Before condemning the PCM, all other possibilities, including the throttle body, wiring, and software updates, must be exhaustively ruled out.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Confirm the code: Use an OBD-II scanner to verify that P0222 is present and note any other codes.
2. Check for TSBs: Contact a Chrysler dealer or use a professional database to check your VIN for any available PCM software updates related to throttle body codes. This is a critical first step.
3. Inspect the Electrical Connector: Disconnect the battery. Carefully inspect the 6-pin electrical connector at the throttle body. Look for loose or backed-out pins, corrosion, or damaged wires. Ensure it is clean and seats firmly.
4. Test Sensor Voltage (Optional, requires scan tool): Reconnect the battery. With the key on and engine off, use a scan tool to view live data for 'TPS Voltage 1' and 'TPS Voltage 2'. TPS2 will likely read a very low, fixed voltage (e.g., under 0.5V). This confirms a circuit fault.
5. Install Software Update: If a TSB applies, have the PCM reprogrammed. Clear codes and test drive to see if P0222 returns.
6. Replace Throttle Body: If no TSB applies and the wiring is confirmed to be good, replace the entire electronic throttle body assembly.
7. Perform Throttle Relearn: After replacing the throttle body, a recalibration procedure is necessary. This can often be done without tools by turning the key to the 'ON' position for a few seconds, slowly pressing the accelerator to the floor, slowly releasing it, and then turning the key off.
🎬 Watch: Quick video guide on the throttle reset procedure

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Electronic Throttle Body Assembly (OEM #53034251AD) — This is the most common cause of P0222, as the internal throttle position sensors fail and are not serviceable separately. Note: This part number is for 2013-2014 models. The 2012 model uses a different part.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $250-$450
  Aftermarket price range: $150-$300

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0122 — This is the code for 'Throttle Position Sensor 'A' Circuit Low'. Seeing both P0122 and P0222 together strongly points to a complete electrical failure within the throttle body or an issue with its main connector/power supply.
• P2135 — This code for 'Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch A/B Voltage Correlation' means the PCM sees a disagreement between the two sensor signals, reinforcing the diagnosis of a failing throttle body.
• U1424 — This code for 'Implausible Engine Torque Signal' can be triggered when the PCM cannot trust the throttle position data, leading to a conflict in its torque calculations. This is often fixed by the same software updates that address P0222.
• P0642 — This code for 'Sensor Reference Voltage 'A' Circuit Low' is a major clue. If seen with P0222, it suggests the entire 5-volt reference circuit shared by multiple sensors is being pulled low, and the throttle body may not be the actual cause.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 18-045-16 REV. A: While for the 2015 model year, this TSB is highly relevant as it calls for a PCM software update to resolve P0222 on 6.4L Hemi engines due to sensitive diagnostic logic.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A known issue on this platform is the potential for PCM software to be overly sensitive, leading to false P0222 codes. Multiple TSBs have been issued for various models and years to correct this with a software update.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• TPS 'B' (TPS2) Signal Voltage — expected: Approx. 0.5V at closed throttle, sweeping smoothly to ~4.5V at wide-open throttle (WOT).. Failure: Voltage is stuck below 0.5V, does not change with throttle movement, or drops out. A fault may be set if voltage is < 0.16V for more than 0.7 seconds.
• 5-Volt Reference at Throttle Body Connector — expected: Between 4.5 and 5.2 volts with key on, engine off.. Failure: Voltage is significantly below 4.5V or absent. This often indicates a short on the shared 5V reference circuit or a PCM fault, not necessarily a bad throttle body.
• Sensor Ground Circuit Resistance — expected: Less than 5.0 ohms when measured between the ground pin at the connector and the battery negative terminal.. Failure: High or infinite resistance (open circuit), which can cause incorrect sensor readings.

Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking

• ETC Starter Inhibit Mileage Log: This is not a trouble code, but a data point visible in the wiTECH scan tool. It logs the vehicle mileage when a no-crank condition occurred because the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system was performing a self-test or relearn procedure. This is considered normal operation. (see via Chrysler wiTECH dealer scan tool)

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• Chrysler wiTECH: ETC Throttle Follower Test — This is a bidirectional test that commands the throttle plate to specific angles. It's used to confirm if the TPS1 and TPS2 sensors are tracking movement accurately and if the throttle motor is responding, helping to isolate a bad throttle body from a wiring issue.
• Chrysler wiTECH: ETC Learn (Electronic Throttle Control Learn) — This function is mandatory after replacing the throttle body. It forces the PCM to learn the new sensor's closed and wide-open throttle positions for correct idle and throttle response.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Throttle Body Connector (C1) — The 6-pin connector plugged directly into the electronic throttle body at the front of the engine's intake manifold.. This is the central point for all signals. P0222 is a fault in the circuit connected to Pin 4.
• Pin 4 (TP SIGNAL 2) — On the 6-pin throttle body connector. The wire is typically Brown with a Dark Green tracer (BR/DG).. This is the specific signal wire for the 'B' sensor. A low voltage reading on this wire is what triggers the P0222 code.
• Pin 2 (5 VOLT SUPPLY) — On the 6-pin throttle body connector. The wire is typically Pink with a Yellow tracer (PK/YL).. This wire provides the 5-volt reference from the PCM. If this voltage is low, both TPS sensors will fail, likely setting P0122 and P0222 together, along with P0642.
• Pin 6 (TP SENSOR GROUND) — On the 6-pin throttle body connector. The wire is typically Brown with a Dark Blue tracer (BR/DB).. A poor ground connection here can cause erratic or incorrect voltage readings from both throttle position sensors.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• RamForum.com user 'Buckfat' (2016 Ram 2500 with 6.4L Hemi (shares engine and similar electronics)) — Intermittent limp mode with the ETC 'lightning bolt' light and various codes.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Replacing the Powertrain Control Module (PCM)., Replacing the MAP sensor., Replacing multiple other sensors as indicated by changing trouble codes.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The technician found a heater hose clamp was positioned in a way that it had chafed through the main wiring harness, causing the 5-volt ground wire to intermittently short out. Repairing the wire and repositioning the clamp and harness resolved the issue permanently.

"I Checked Everything" — The Actual Cause

• A common scenario where standard diagnostics fail is when the 5-volt reference circuit is shorted to ground by an entirely different sensor that shares the same circuit. For example, on some Chrysler vehicles, the oil pressure sensor, crankshaft position sensor, and accelerator pedal sensor share the 5V reference with the throttle body. If one of those sensors fails and shorts internally, it will pull the voltage down for all sensors on the circuit, triggering P0222 even if the throttle body is good. The fix is to unplug each sensor on the shared circuit one-by-one until the 5V reference returns to normal at the throttle body connector, identifying the true faulty component.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 04591847AC (and previous versions AA, AB) → N/A (This part is specific to 2011-2012 models) — This is the correct part for the 2012 model year 6.4L Hemi.
  Heads up: This part is for 2012 and earlier models and is not compatible with 2013-2014 vehicles.
• 53034251AB, 53034251AC → 53034251AD — Standard part revision and update by Mopar.
  Heads up: This part is for 2013-2014 models and is not compatible with 2012 vehicles.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2012 only: The 2012 Chrysler 300 6.4L SRT uses a different electronic throttle body, OEM part number 04591847AC.
• 2013-2014: The 2013 and 2014 Chrysler 300 6.4L SRT use electronic throttle body OEM part number 53034251AD.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide for This Vehicle

When a used part is the smart pick: A used OEM throttle body from a low-mileage, verified-running donor vehicle can be a budget-conscious choice if a new part is unavailable or unaffordable. However, it is a gamble, as the internal electronics may have significant wear and no warranty.

Donor-vehicle mileage cap: roughly under 60000 miles for the part to have meaningful remaining life.

What to inspect on the donor part:

• Verify the part number on the used unit matches the correct one for your model year (04591847AC for 2012, 53034251AD for 2013-14).
• Inspect the electrical connector pins for any corrosion, bending, or damage.
• Check the throttle bore for excessive carbon buildup or physical scoring on the plate or housing.
• Ask the seller for the VIN of the donor car to check its history if possible.

OEM-only on this vehicle (don't cheap out):

• Electronic Throttle Body

Brands owners have reported issues with on this vehicle:

• Unbranded or 'white-box' parts from online marketplaces are strongly discouraged. While brands like Dorman or Cardone exist, forum consensus heavily favors new Mopar OEM for this critical component to avoid repeat failures and compatibility issues.

Real Owner Stories

Aggregated from forums and TSBs cited above. Mileages and costs reflect what owners reported in those sources.

Related OBD-II Codes

• P0121 — Often appears alongside P0222 as it relates to Throttle Position Sensor performance issues within the same electronic throttle body assembly.
• P0122 — A companion circuit low code for TPS1; P0222 specifically targets the TPS2 circuit, but both are monitored by the PCM to verify throttle plate position.
• P2110 — Triggered when the PCM forces the Electronic Throttle Control system into 'limp mode' (Limited RPM) due to the sensor fault detected in P0222.
• P2118 — Related to throttle actuator control motor current range/performance, which can be affected by the same wiring harness or connector issues that cause P0222.

Frequently Asked Questions