P222A Barometric Pressure Sensor “B” Circuit
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Barometric Pressure Sensor B
What does that mean?
This is a generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and typically applies to OBD-II vehicles. Vehicles affected may include but is not limited to Chevy, Mazda, Volvo, Acura, Honda, BMW, Isuzu, Mercedes Benz, Cadillac, Hyundai, Saab, Ford, GMC, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on year, make, model and powertrain configuration.
Most ECMs (Engine Control Modules) rely on a varying amount of measurements to accurately provide the engine an optimal air to fuel ratio. The "optimal" air/fuel ratio is called the "stoichiometric" mixture, 14.7 parts air to one part fuel. Some of the values the ECM monitors to keep the fuel mixture as stoichiometric as possible are, but not limited to: air flow, coolant temperature, engine speed, load demand, atmospheric temperature, etc. Some engine management systems rely more on intake and atmospheric pressures to optimize the mixture.
Not to mention these systems use less sensors to accomplish similar results, as far as fuel management/efficiency is concerned anyway. Usually, BAPs (Barometric Air Pressure) sensors are used when MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensors are also present. BAPs are used to measure atmospheric pressure. This value is integral to determine fuel mixtures because the ECM needs to compare atmospheric pressures to intake manifold pressures to accurately adjust the fuel mixture according to the operator’s driving needs. Altitude is a significant factor to consider when diagnosing BAPs. Depending on your location, your symptoms may actively worsen or improve, especially if you commute frequently through mountainous areas.
When a letter is included within an OBD2 fault code’s description (in this case "B"), most times it will be to pinpoint something specific (i.e. different banks, sensors, circuits, connectors, etc.) about the system in which you are working within. In this case, I would say it is to determine which sensor you are working with. A lot of times, there will be multiple barometric sensors to ensure accurate readings. Also, to correlate between sensors to assist fuel management not to mention it helps find faults within the sensors or the circuits. All that said, refer to your service manual for specific details on letter specifications for your particular vehicle.
P222A is set by the ECM when it detects a general (or specific) malfunction within the Barometric pressure (BAP) "B" sensor or it’s circuit(s).
A barometric pressure sensor:
What is the severity of this DTC?
Severity will moderately high here. Reading this, a certain sense of urgency needs to be applied in order to maintain efficient engine operation. Anytime a fault can directly affect very important values such as air/fuel ratios, and is actively present, you should not operate your vehicle, to prevent any engine damage. Having that said, if you’ve driven the vehicle since the fault has been active, don’t worry too much, you are probably fine. Big takeaway, if left unattended, this fault could cause expensive internal engine damage in the future.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P222A trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this P222A code may include:
What are some P222A troubleshooting steps?
Basic Step #1
Locate the BAP (Barometric Air Pressure) sensor on your particular vehicle. The location of these sensors have varied significantly in my experience so locating the correct sensor should be of highest importance. Once located, inspect the BAP sensor for any physical damage. Possible issues can depend on the location so take sensor’s surroundings into consideration (i.e. High heat areas, engine vibrations, exposed to elements/road debris, etc.).
Basic Step #2
Make sure the connector on the sensor itself is seated properly to ensure a good electrical connection. Especially if the sensor is located on the engine, it may be subject to vibrations that could cause connections to come loose or physically damage them.
NOTE: Make sure you remember to disconnect your battery before disconnecting any sensors. Depending on the vehicle/system/sensor you could cause damaging electrical spikes if you forget this step. That said, if you feel uncomfortable here or have limited fundamental electrical knowledge, I would recommend you tow/drive your vehicle to your reputable repair facility.
Basic Step #3
Anything obstructing the sensor? It could be causing false atmospheric pressure readings. Accurate readings are integral for optimal engine performance in these fuel management systems.
Basic Step #4
Using your multimeter and armed with desired electrical values for the barometric air pressure sensor. You will need to disconnect the connector from the sensor itself to gain access to the pins. Once you see the pins, follow manufacturer specific diagnostic procedures with desired values and compare. Anything out of the specific range will indicate a defective sensor. Replace it following proper re+re procedures.
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"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p222a in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p222a and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.
Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p222a.
