Accelerator Pedal (AP) Position Sensor
The function of the accelerator pedal position sensor is to provide the engine control module (ECM) and central electronic module (CEM) information on the position of the accelerator pedal. The engine control module (ECM) uses this data to deploy the shutter in the throttle unit to the correct angle.
The accelerator pedal position sensor consists of a plastic housing with two potentiometers, and an Analog/Digital converter. The potentiometers are connected to a common shaft which is affected by the position of the accelerator pedal (AP). The output signals are a pulse width modulated (PWM) signal and an analog signal related to the accelerator pedal (AP) position.
These signals indicate the position of the accelerator pedal (AP). The pulse width modulation (PWM) signal is transmitted to the engine control module (ECM). The analog signal is transmitted to the central electronic module (CEM) and on to the engine control module (ECM) via the controller area network (CAN).
Normally the pulse width modulation (PWM) signal is used to regulate the throttle angle. In the event of a fault in the pulse width modulation (PWM) signal the analog signal is used as a replacement, unless this is also diagnosed as faulty.
The sensor is supplied with 12 V by the system relay via a fuse and is grounded to the body.
The PWM-signal is used together with the analog signal for diagnostics of the accelerator pedal position sensor.
The accelerator pedal (AP) position sensor's signals can be read out with the diagnostics tool. If the Engine control module (ECM) detects a difference between analog and PWM-signal, a diagnostic trouble code is generated and the Engine control module (ECM) then uses the signal with lowest value for control.
The accelerator pedal (AP) position sensor is located on the accelerator pedal bracket.