P2138 on Ford: How to Diagnose & Fix
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor D/E Voltage Correlation
1 Ford model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $350-$700 repair
P2138 on Ford by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The CD3 Edge uses a Ford electronic throttle body (ETB) with an integrated throttle position sensor. Non-conductive deposits build up on the internal sensor contacts, so the PCM sees an implausible or drifting throttle plate position and drops the vehicle into failsafe/limp mode - the amber wrench warning lights up and engine output is cut to idle-ish power, often at highway speed with no warning. Owners describe it as the truck 'just quitting on me' merging or passing, sometimes clearing after a key cycle and then recurring more frequently. Cleaning the throttle bore does not fix it because the fault is on the electronic contacts inside the sealed unit, not carbon on the plate. Ford acknowledged the family-wide ETB problem with extended coverage programs on several models, and the failure is heavily represented in NHTSA complaints for the Edge.
Common Symptoms
- Amber wrench warning light on the cluster
- Sudden loss of power / limp mode at speed
- Engine will not rev past idle until restarted
- Surging or erratic idle
- Intermittent stall at stops
- Fault clears after key cycle then returns
How to Fix
Replace the throttle body assembly with an updated Motorcraft unit - the internal fault cannot be repaired or cleaned out. Note the part number differs between 2007-2010 and 2011-2014 Edges, so order by VIN. After installation the PCM must relearn throttle position (KAM reset plus an idle relearn drive cycle). Check that the ETB connector and harness pins are not corroded or spread before condemning a second throttle body. Verify whether your VIN falls under any remaining Ford extended service program coverage for ETB before paying out of pocket.
Sources for this issue (4)
- Throttle Body Service or Failure - 3.5L - Ford Edge Forumforum
- Throttle system limp mode issues HELP! - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forumsforum
- Defective ETBs Are Sending Ford Vehicles into Limp Home Mode - FordProblemsarticle
- P0122 on 2007-2014 Ford Edge: Throttle Body Failure Causes, Symptoms, and Fixesarticle
P2138 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P2138 mean on a Ford?
P2138 stands for "Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor D/E Voltage Correlation." This code means the two (or three) signals from the accelerator pedal position / throttle position sensors disagree with each other — specifically sensors 'D' and 'E', which are typically the redundant signals built into the electronic accelerator pedal. Drive-by-wire systems use multiple sensors that should track together so the computer can trust the driver's input; when their voltages don't correlate, the computer can't be sure of the requested throttle and sets this code. As a safety response it usually puts the engine into a reduced-power 'limp' mode. It generally points to the pedal sensor assembly or its wiring. On Ford it is documented across 1 model: Edge.
What are the most common causes of P2138?
The most common causes of P2138 are: Faulty accelerator pedal position sensor assembly, Corroded or loose pedal sensor connector, Chafed, shorted, or open wiring between pedal and ECM, Shorted-together signal wires in the pedal harness, Poor sensor ground or reference voltage, Moisture or contamination in the pedal connector, Faulty ECM/PCM (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P2138 on a Ford?
Published repair estimates on Ford range from $350 to $700 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P2138 on a different make?
View P2138 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.