P0221 intermittent code help

[ltkerr04]

So I intermittently get a P0221 code in the car and it causes my epc and traction control light to come on throwing the car into limp mode. I’ve replaced the accelerator pedal already, cleaned and checked throttle body, checked all wiring, check the ecu, everything is reading good and in spec. Ecu is bone dry, all wiring looks good, voltage is good on everything. I’m completely stumped. The lights come on and go off on their own randomly. They don’t always stay on for a long period of time, sometimes a trip or 2, sometimes a few days, sometimes just 5-10 minutes into driving. It’s really super annoying. Any ideas? There are no vac leaks in the car, already had that tested, just replaced the maf sensor too because it was throwing a sporadic cel, so it was on its way out the door. This thing is super frustrating, and I’ve searched for days all over the internet looking for things I could check or things I may have missed. I’ve had a local shop working with me on it and they are running out of ideas as well based off the tests run and everything checking out good. Any help or ideas are appreciated.

[NALS4]

I had that code, too, repeatedly before doing my timing service. After pulling it apart to get down to the timing area, cleaning the filthy throttle body, and reassembly, I haven't seen a code in 4k miles. Coincidentally or not, reassembly was without the SAI. I wonder if that system was the cause of the black filth in the throttle body, and I hope it will stay cleaner now. This isn't helpful to you, I expect. I also researched and found that there are many possible causes. Best of luck to you.

[ltkerr04]

Thanks for your insight! The motor has about 48k on it, and it’s clean as a whistle!! The previous owner had the motor replaced under Audi warranty for oil consumption. I’m pretty sure the timing update was apart of the new motor as well. Never have any noise coming from it, it’s always running super smooth, that’s why I’m stumped. With my throttle body appearing to be clean and in all working order, I’m not too sure what to turn to next for the intermittent issue.

[NALS4]

You didn't mention performing the TB adaptation. My lights wouldn't go out on their own. I'd have to do the adaptation, the one with the key in ignition and throttle to the floor with engine off. I didn't have the VAGCOM software and cable yet. The adaptation would clear it, sometimes for longer, sometimes not for long.

[ltkerr04]

Good point!! I have done the adaptation a few times. I have a rossi-tech cable and the vcds on my laptop. It does the same for me too, sometimes clearing the codes and doing the adaptation will keep it from coming back for a while, then other times not so much. It’s pretty random still.

[A4Ferrari]

I am having this same issue ... My next step is going to me replacing the pins on the harness to the TB

[ltkerr04]

Keep me posted and let me know how that works out for you! If it works I may run the same route

[A4Ferrari]

Just as an FYI .. I have already change the air filter - air mass and throttle body ... I also found the vacuum hose that operates the intake manifold split. BUTTT the light is still coming on. I just ordered the connector - pins and an accelerator pedal

[A4Ferrari]

Just an update -- Installed new gas pedal and so far so good. The part number went from G to J so I know there has been plenty of updates .

I have the terminals but have not needed they yet

[ltkerr04]

Awesome! I’ve actually been running good since I replaced my accelerator pedal and did one more throttle body adaptation after it was installed. Perhaps it was a fluke that it still gave me an issue right after being done...perhaps it just needed one more adaptation done to get it all situated? But so far so good...will be monitoring for a while of course.