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Code 21 - TPS Circuit High

Code 21 means that the ECM has seen a high TPS voltage for more than about 10 seconds, below a specified RPM or below a specified engine load. Due to the pull-up resistor between terms. "21" and "2" within the ECM, an open in the TPS circuit will place about 5 volts (high TPS signal) at term. "2" of ECM.

NOTE: The following step numbers refer to the numbers in the accompanying flow chart(s).
  1. This test checks the circuits from the TPS connector back to the ECM. Both wires should read about 5 volts due to the pull-up resistor in the ECM.
    NOTE: A 10 megohms resistance meter must be used. A lower resistance voltmeter would read virtually zero at term. "B."
  2. This test checks if low voltage at TPS connector is an open in the circuit or a faulty ECM. A normal reading at the ECM is about 5 volts.
  3. This test simulates closed throttle. Dwell should increase if the ECM is good.
  4. This tests the resistance of the TPS switch. Normal reading is less than 20,000 ohms.
Fig 1: Code 21, TPS Circuit High
G10252
Fig 2: Code 21, TPS Circuit High
GB0048259