Fault Code Severity and Symptoms
The severity of this code can range from moderate to severe depending on the specific malfunction. Symptoms of a P2173 fault code may include:
- Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) or ABS warning light
- Engine may not start
- No or poor acceleration response
- Automatic transmission won’t shift
- Additional codes may be stored
Common Causes of This DTC
Potential causes of throttle motor code P2173 may include:
- Engine overheating
- Vacuum leaks (particularly on Dodge/Chrysler/Jeep vehicles)
- Manifold Absolute Pressure sensor malfunction
- Abnormal system voltages
P2173 Diagnostic and Repair Procedures
The first step in troubleshooting any malfunction is to search for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and powertrain. In some circumstances, this can save significant time by pointing you in the right direction.
For example, we’re aware of a bulletin that applies to certain 2007-2008 Dodge and Jeep vehicles (Compass, Patriot, Caliber), bulletin number 18-019-08, which involves this DTC and others, where the fix involves reprogramming the PCM.
The second step for this code is to perform a PCM scan to identify other fault codes. This code is an informational code and in most cases serves to alert the driver that the PCM has initiated a fail-safe mode due to a malfunction or failure in a system not directly related to the throttle actuator control.
If other codes are identified, you should check for TSBs related to the specific vehicle and those codes. If no TSB has been issued, you should follow the specific troubleshooting steps for those codes to identify the source of the malfunction that the PCM is detecting to put the engine in fail-safe or limp mode.
Once all other codes have been cleared, or if no other codes are detected, if the throttle actuator control code persists, both the PCM and throttle actuator should be evaluated. All wiring and connections should be visually inspected for obvious defects as a starting point.
Common Mistake
Replacing the throttle actuator or PCM when other malfunctions are setting this code.
Rare Repair
Replacing the throttle actuator control
I hope the information in this article has been helpful in guiding you in the right direction to resolve the issue with your throttle actuator control system force code. This article is strictly informational, and specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle should always take priority.