What does it mean?
On manual transmission vehicles, the engine control module (ECM) monitors clutch and gear position to fine-tune engine performance and fuel economy. Additionally, clutch and gear position are needed for engine starting, cruise control operation, and possibly a remote engine starter. Regarding clutch position, there may be one or two clutch pedal position (CPP) sensors, depending on vehicle design.
While the clutch pedal has a range of motion, between fully-released and fully-depressed, the ECM generally needs to see the clutch at either of those two positions. When the ECM determines the clutch is fully depressed, it enables engine starting and may modulate engine speed, such as for rev-matching upshifts and downshifts. When the cruise control system detects the clutch is fully released, it enables cruise control function.
The ECM can monitor CPP sensor function by analyzing other parameters, such as gear position, throttle position, engine speed, or vehicle speed. For the purposes of this discussion, we’ll be referring to the clutch pedal position sensor detecting the clutch pedal in the fully-released position, usually sensor “B.” Depending on the vehicle, this may or may not be the same switch that enables engine starting, so check your repair manual to be sure.
If the ECM detects a problem, such as not detecting the clutch pedal fully-released, even though other engine parameters indicate that it is released, the ECM sets diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0833, “Clutch Pedal Position (CPP) Switch “B” Circuit,” and illuminates the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). Cruise control function also gets locked out.