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DTC codes / Honda codes / P1248

P1248 · HondaAccelerator Position Sensors 1 & 2 Improper Correlation

P1248 on Honda vehicles means the powertrain control module (PCM) has compared the signals from accelerator pedal position sensors 1 and 2 and found they do not agree within the expected range. The two sensors are wired with opposite voltage sweeps so the PCM can cross-check them, and this code sets when that correlation fails for a calibrated time.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeHonda specific
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaFuel and air metering (injector circuits)

Symptoms you may notice

  • The check engine light or electronic throttle warning light illuminates on the dashboard.
  • The engine may enter limp mode with reduced power and a maximum speed or rpm limit.
  • The accelerator pedal may feel unresponsive, delayed, or inconsistent compared with pedal travel.
  • The engine may idle erratically or hesitate when pulling away from a stop.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially if the correlation error is intermittent.
  • Cruise control may be disabled or refuse to engage while the fault is active.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Worn or contaminated accelerator pedal position sensor tracks inside the pedal assembly.
  2. Corroded, backed-out, or damaged terminals in the accelerator pedal sensor connectors.
  3. Chafed or open wiring between the pedal sensors and the PCM, often near the pedal bracket or bulkhead.
  4. A sensor reference or ground circuit shared by both pedal sensors that has excessive resistance.
  5. A faulty accelerator pedal assembly after impact or liquid exposure.
  6. PCM internal fault or outdated PCM software affecting throttle correlation logic, less common.
  7. Poor electrical connections caused by water intrusion into the pedal area or footwell.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Scan all modules and record freeze-frame data for P1248, then check for related throttle codes before touching any parts.
  2. Inspect the accelerator pedal connector and harness for corrosion, loose pins, or chafing, and repair terminals as needed.
  3. Back-probe both sensor signal wires and compare voltages through the full pedal sweep; sensor 1 and sensor 2 should track in opposite directions without dropouts.
  4. Check the shared reference and ground circuits for voltage drop under load, repairing high-resistance joints or grounds.
  5. If wiring and connectors pass, replace the accelerator pedal assembly with a known-good unit and clear the code.
  6. Relearn the throttle and pedal positions with a scan tool if the vehicle requires it, then road test through several full pedal sweeps.
  7. If the code returns with verified good signals at the PCM, check for PCM software updates or internal PCM faults before replacement.

What a correlation code really means

  • P1248 does not automatically mean the pedal assembly is bad; a single corroded terminal on one sensor signal can produce the same correlation error.
  • The two sensors are designed to sweep in opposite directions, so a technician must watch both voltages simultaneously rather than testing one sensor at a time.
  • Intermittent sets often occur only over bumps or when the pedal is held at a steady position, which is why a full sweep with a live-data graph catches more than a static voltage check.
  • A weak battery or poor ground can cause false correlation codes on Honda throttle systems, so check charging and grounds before condemning the pedal.
  • After pedal or PCM replacement, some Hondas require a throttle position relearn; skipping it can make the code return immediately even with good parts.

Can I keep driving with P1248?

The vehicle is usually safe to drive to a shop, but expect reduced power and possible limp mode, so avoid highway merging, towing, and heavy acceleration until the fault is repaired.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for Honda vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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