What Does It Mean?
This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and applies to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer). This may include, but is not limited to, vehicles from Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Hyundai, Kia, Honda, Toyota, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.
A stored P069F code means that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a malfunction in the throttle actuator control lamp driver circuit.
The throttle actuator control lamp is an integral part of the instrument panel. Its main function is to alert the driver that the throttle actuator control system has malfunctioned (when illuminated). The throttle actuator control system is responsible for opening and closing the throttle plate to increase/decrease engine RPM as requested.
The PCM typically monitors the continuity of the throttle actuator control lamp driver circuit whenever the ignition is turned on. The throttle actuator control system uses input signals from the vehicle’s Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) to actuate the throttle plate and regulate the appropriate amount of ambient air entering the engine. The PCM provides the electronic servomotors with the required voltage signal to open or close the throttle plate as requested.
Whenever the ignition is turned on and the PCM is powered up, several controller self-tests are performed. In addition to running internal controller self-tests, the Controller Area Network (CAN) transports serial data from each individual module to ensure that the onboard controllers interface correctly.
If a problem is detected in the monitoring of the throttle actuator control lamp driver circuit, a P069F code will be stored and a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) may be illuminated.
P069F
How Severe Is This DTC?
A stored P069F code (with the throttle control warning light illuminated) will likely be accompanied by a loss of throttle control. This code should be considered severe and diagnosed as soon as possible.
What Are Some of the Symptoms of the Code?
Symptoms of a P069F trouble code may include:
Inoperative throttle actuator control system
Inoperative throttle actuator control lamp
Throttle actuator control lamp illuminated
Other stored throttle system codes
What Are Some of the Common Causes of the Code?
Causes
of this code may include:
Faulty PCM
PCM programming error
Open or shorted throttle actuator control lamp driver circuit
Faulty throttle actuator control lamp bulb
What Are the P069F Troubleshooting Steps?
A diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information will be needed to diagnose a P069F code.
Consult your vehicle information source for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that match the stored code, the vehicle (year, make, model, and engine), and the symptoms presented. If you find the relevant TSB, it may provide helpful diagnostic information.
Start by connecting the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieving all stored codes and freeze frame data. You’ll want to note this information, just in case the code proves to be intermittent. After recording all relevant information, clear the codes and test-drive the vehicle until the code resets or the PCM enters readiness mode.
If the PCM enters readiness mode, the code is intermittent and will be more difficult to diagnose. The condition that caused the P069F to be stored may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made. If the code resets, continue with your diagnosis.
Use your vehicle information source to obtain connector face views, connector pinout diagrams, component locators, wiring schematics, and diagnostic flowcharts related to the specific code and vehicle.
Check for battery voltage on the throttle actuator control warning lamp circuit using the appropriate wiring diagram and your DVOM. If not present, check the system fuses and relays and replace faulty parts as needed. If voltage is found at the throttle actuator control warning lamp, suspect a faulty throttle actuator control warning lamp bulb.
If the throttle actuator control lamp bulb is functioning correctly and the P069F continues to reset, use the DVOM to test the controller power fuses and relays. Replace any blown fuses as needed. Fuses should be tested under load.
If all fuses and relays appear to be functioning correctly, a visual inspection of the wiring and harnesses related to the controller is necessary. You should also check the chassis and engine ground connections. Use your vehicle information source to obtain ground locations for the related circuits.
Visually inspect the system controllers for signs of water, heat, or collision damage. Any damaged controller, especially by water, should be considered faulty.
If the controller power and ground circuits are intact, suspect a faulty controller or a controller programming error. Replacing the controller will require reprogramming. In some cases, you can purchase pre-programmed controllers from aftermarket sources. Other vehicles/controllers will require onboard reprogramming that can only be performed by a dealer or other qualified source.
If the throttle actuator control lamp does not illuminate during Key On, Engine Off (KOEO), suspect a faulty throttle actuator control warning lamp bulb.
Test the integrity of the controller ground by connecting the DVOM’s negative test lead to ground and the positive test lead to battery voltage.