P2112 Throttle Actuator Control System Stuck Closed

Code Severity and Symptoms

The severity of this code can range from moderate to severe depending on the specific malfunction. Symptoms of a P2112 trouble code may include:

  • Engine does not start
  • Worsening poor performance
  • Little or no response from the accelerator
  • Engine warning light illuminated
  • Smoke from the exhaust pipe
  • Increased fuel consumption

Common Causes of P2112 Code

Possible causes of this code may include:

  1. Faulty throttle body
  2. Dirty throttle plate or linkage
  3. Defective throttle position sensor
  4. Faulty accelerator pedal position sensor
  5. Throttle actuator control motor is defective
  6. Corroded or damaged connector
  7. Faulty or damaged wiring
  8. Defective PCM

Common Repairs

  1. Replacement of throttle body
  2. Cleaning throttle plate and linkage
  3. Replacement of throttle position sensor
  4. Replacement of throttle actuator control motor
  5. Replacement of accelerator pedal position sensor
  6. Cleaning corrosion from connectors
  7. Repairing or replacing wiring
  8. Flashing or replacing PCM

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

Check TSBs

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 you significant time in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

The second step is to locate all components associated with the throttle actuator control system. This will include the throttle body, throttle position sensor, throttle actuator control motor, PCM, and accelerator position sensor on a simplex system. Once these components are located, a thorough visual inspection should be performed to check that all associated cables show no obvious defects such as scraping, rubbing, bare wires, burning, or melted plastic. Then, check the connectors of each component for security, corrosion, and damaged pins.

The final visual and physical inspection is the throttle plate. With the ignition off, you should be able to rotate the throttle plate by pushing on it. It should rotate to the wide-open position. If there is sludge behind the plate, it should be cleaned while accessible.

Advanced Steps

Advanced steps become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to perform accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and vehicle-specific technical references. Voltage requirements will be highly dependent on the specific vehicle year, model, and engine.

Circuit Checks

With the ignition switch in the off position, disconnect the electrical connector from the throttle body. Locate the 2 pins that go to the motor(s) on the throttle body. Using a digital ohmmeter set to ohms, check the resistance of the motor(s). The motor should read approximately between 2 and 25 ohms depending on the specific vehicle (consult manufacturer specifications for your vehicle). If the resistance is too high or too low, the throttle body will need to be replaced. If all tests have passed up to this point, you will want to check the motor voltage signals.

If this process identifies a missing power source or ground, continuity tests may be required to check wiring integrity. Continuity tests should always be performed with power disconnected from the circuit, and normal readings should be 0 ohms of resistance unless otherwise stated in the technical data. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that must be repaired or replaced.

I hope the information in this article has helped point you in the right direction to correct the issue with your throttle actuator control system. This article is strictly informational, and the technical data and service bulletins specific to your vehicle should always take priority.

P2113 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor B Minimum Stop Performance

How severe is this DTC?

A P2113 should be considered severe as it can render the vehicle undrivable.

What are some symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2113 trouble code may include:

  • Unresponsive accelerator
  • Limited or no acceleration
  • Engine stalling at idle
  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Inoperative cruise control

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this throttle/pedal position sensor code P2113 may include:

  • Faulty TPS or PPS
  • Open or shorted circuits between TPS, PPS and PCM
  • Corroded electrical connectors
  • Faulty DBW actuator motor

What are the P2113 troubleshooting steps?

Check your vehicle information source for Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) that match the vehicle’s make, model and engine size. Symptoms and stored codes should also match. If you find a matching TSB, this will greatly assist your diagnosis.

My diagnosis for a P2113 code would typically start with a visual inspection of all cables and connectors related to the system. I would also check the throttle plate for signs of carbon buildup or damage. Excessive carbon buildup, which keeps the throttle body open at startup, can lead to a P2113 code being stored. Clean carbon from the throttle body according to manufacturer recommendations and repair or replace faulty wiring or components as needed, then retest the DBW system.

You will need a diagnostic scanner, digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM) and a reliable vehicle information source to accurately diagnose this code.

Next, connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored trouble codes. Record them in case you need the information later in your diagnosis. Also save all associated freeze frame data. These notes may prove useful, especially if P2113 is intermittent. Now clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if the code resets.

If the code immediately resets, voltage spikes and inconsistencies between TPS, PPS and PCM can be detected using scanner data stream. Narrow the data stream to display only relevant data for faster response. If no spikes and/or inconsistencies are detected, use the DVOM to retrieve live data from each sensor signal wire. To retrieve live data with the DVOM, connect the positive test lead to the appropriate signal wire and the ground test lead to the ground circuit, then observe the DVOM display while operating the DBW. Look for voltage spikes when the accelerator is slowly operated from closed position to wide open throttle. Voltage typically ranges from 0.5 volts at closed throttle to 4.5 volts at wide open throttle, but consult your vehicle information source for exact specifications. If spikes or other irregularities are detected, suspect the tested sensor is faulty. An oscilloscope is also an excellent tool for testing sensor operation.

If the sensor operates as expected, disconnect all associated controllers and test individual circuits with the DVOM. System wiring diagrams and connector pinout charts can help you determine which circuits to test and where to find them on the vehicle. Repair or replace system circuits as needed.

Only suspect a faulty PCM or PCM programming error after all system sensors and circuits have been verified.

Some manufacturers require the throttle body, throttle actuator motor and all throttle position sensors to be replaced as a single unit

P2114 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor C Minimum Stop Performance

How severe is this DTC?

A P2114 should be considered severe as it can result in the vehicle being undrivable.

What are some symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2114 trouble code may include:

  • Unresponsive accelerator
  • Limited or no acceleration
  • Engine stalling at idle
  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Inoperative cruise control

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this throttle/pedal position sensor code P2114 may include:

  • Faulty TPS or PPS
  • Open or shorted circuits between TPS, PPS, and PCM
  • Corroded electrical connectors
  • Faulty DBW actuator motor

What are the P2114 troubleshooting steps?

Check your vehicle’s information source for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that match the vehicle’s make, model, and engine size. The symptoms and stored codes should also match. If you find a matching TSB, it will greatly assist in your diagnosis.

My diagnosis for a P2114 code typically begins with a visual inspection of all cables and connectors related to the system. I would also check the throttle plate for signs of carbon buildup or damage. Excessive carbon buildup, which keeps the throttle body open at startup, can lead to the storage of a P2114 code. Clean carbon from the throttle body according to manufacturer recommendations and repair or replace faulty wiring or components as needed, then retest the DBW system.

You will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source to accurately diagnose this code.

Next, connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored trouble codes. Record them in case you need the information later in your diagnosis. Also save any associated freeze frame data. These notes may prove useful, especially if the P2114 is intermittent. Now clear the codes and test the vehicle to see if the code resets.

If the code immediately resets, voltage spikes and inconsistencies between the TPS, PPS, and PCM can be detected using the scanner’s data stream. Narrow the data stream to display only relevant data for faster response. If no spikes and/or inconsistencies are detected, use the DVOM to retrieve live data from each sensor’s signal wires. To retrieve live data with the DVOM, connect the positive test lead to the appropriate signal wire and the ground test lead to the ground circuit, then observe the DVOM display while operating the DBW. Look for voltage spikes when the accelerator is slowly moved from closed position to wide open throttle. Voltage typically ranges from 0.5 volts at closed throttle to 4.5 volts at wide open throttle, but consult your vehicle information source for exact specifications. If spikes or other irregularities are detected, suspect the tested sensor is faulty. An oscilloscope is also an excellent tool for testing sensor operation.

If the sensor operates as expected, disconnect all associated controllers and test individual circuits with the DVOM. System wiring diagrams and connector pinout charts can help determine which circuits to test and where to find them on the vehicle. Repair or replace system circuits as needed.

Only suspect a faulty PCM or PCM programming error after all system sensors and circuits have been verified.

Some manufacturers require the throttle body, throttle actuator motor, and all throttle position sensors to be replaced as a single unit.

P2115 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor D Minimum Stop Performance

How severe is this DTC?

A P2115 should be considered severe as it can result in the vehicle being undrivable.

What are some symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2115 trouble code may include:

  • Unresponsive accelerator
  • Limited or no acceleration
  • Engine stalling at idle
  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Inoperative cruise control

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes

of this throttle/pedal position sensor P2115 code may include:

  • Faulty TPS or PPS
  • Open or shorted circuits between TPS, PPS and PCM
  • Corroded electrical connectors
  • Faulty DBW actuator motor

What are the P2115 troubleshooting steps?

Check your vehicle information source for Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) that match the make, model and engine size of the vehicle in question. Symptoms and stored codes should also match. If you find a matching TSB, this will greatly assist your diagnosis.

My diagnosis for a P2115 code would typically begin with a visual inspection of all cables and connectors related to the system. I would also check the throttle plate for signs of carbon buildup or damage. Excessive carbon buildup, which keeps the throttle body open at startup, can result in a P2115 code being stored. Clean carbon from the throttle body according to manufacturer recommendations and repair or replace any faulty wiring or components as needed, then retest the DBW system.

You will need a diagnostic scanner, digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM) and a reliable vehicle information source to accurately diagnose this code.

Next, connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored trouble codes. Record them in case you need the information later in your diagnosis. Also save any associated freeze frame data. These notes may prove useful, especially if P2115 is intermittent. Now clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if the code resets.

If the code immediately resets, voltage spikes and inconsistencies between TPS, PPS and PCM can be detected using scanner data stream. Narrow the data stream to display only relevant data for faster response. If no spikes and/or inconsistencies are detected, use the DVOM to retrieve live data from each sensor signal wire. To retrieve live data with the DVOM, connect the positive test lead to the appropriate signal wire and the ground test lead to the ground circuit, then observe the DVOM display while operating the DBW. Look for voltage spikes when the accelerator is slowly operated from closed position to wide open throttle. Voltage typically ranges from 0.5 volts at throttle closed to 4.5 volts at wide open throttle, but consult your vehicle information source for exact specifications. If spikes or other irregularities are detected, suspect the tested sensor is faulty. An oscilloscope is also an excellent tool for testing sensor operation.

If the sensor operates as expected, disconnect all associated controllers and test individual circuits with the DVOM. System wiring diagrams and connector pinout charts can help determine which circuits to test and where to find them on the vehicle. Repair or replace system circuits as needed.

Only suspect a faulty PCM or PCM programming error if all system sensors and circuits check out.

Some manufacturers require the throttle body, throttle actuator motor and all throttle position sensors to be replaced as a single unit

P2116 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor Minimum Stop Performance

How severe is this DTC?

A P2116 should be considered severe as it can result in the vehicle being undrivable.

What are some symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2116 trouble code may include:

  • Unresponsive accelerator
  • Limited or no acceleration
  • Engine stalling at idle
  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Inoperative cruise control

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this P2116 throttle/pedal position sensor code may include:

  • Faulty TPS or PPS
  • Open or shorted circuits between TPS, PPS and PCM
  • Corroded electrical connectors
  • Defective DBW actuator motor

What are the P2116 troubleshooting steps?

Check your vehicle information source for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that match the make, model and engine size of the vehicle in question. The symptoms and stored codes should also match. If you find a matching TSB, it will greatly assist your diagnosis.

My diagnosis for a P2116 code would typically start with a visual inspection of all cables and connectors related to the system. I would also check the throttle plate for signs of carbon buildup or damage. Excessive carbon buildup, which keeps the throttle body open at startup, can lead to a P2116 code being stored. Clean carbon from the throttle body according to manufacturer recommendations and repair or replace any faulty wiring or components as needed, then retest the DBW system.

You will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM) and a reliable vehicle information source to accurately diagnose this code.

Next, connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored trouble codes. Record them in case you need the information later in your diagnosis. Also save any associated freeze frame data. These notes may prove useful, especially if the P2116 is intermittent. Now clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if the code resets.

If the code immediately resets, voltage spikes and inconsistencies between the TPS, PPS and PCM can be detected using the scanner’s data stream. Narrow the data stream to display only relevant data for faster response. If no spikes and/or inconsistencies are detected, use the DVOM to retrieve live data from each of the sensor signal wires. To retrieve live data with the DVOM, connect the positive test lead to the appropriate signal wire and the ground test lead to the ground circuit, then observe the DVOM display while operating the DBW. Look for voltage spikes when the accelerator is slowly operated from closed position to wide open throttle. Voltage typically ranges from 0.5 volts at throttle closed to 4.5 volts at wide open throttle, but consult your vehicle information source for exact specifications. If spikes or other irregularities are detected, suspect the tested sensor is faulty. An oscilloscope is also an excellent tool for testing sensor operation.

If the sensor is operating as expected, disconnect all associated controllers and test individual circuits with the DVOM. System wiring diagrams and connector pinout charts can help you determine which circuits to test and where to find them on the vehicle. Repair or replace system circuits as needed.

Only suspect a faulty PCM or PCM programming error after all system sensors and circuits have been verified.

Some manufacturers require the throttle body, throttle actuator motor and all throttle position sensors to be replaced as a single unit

P2117 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor F Minimum Stop Performance

How severe is this DTC?

A P2117 should be considered severe as it can result in the vehicle being undrivable.

What are some symptoms of the code?

Symptoms of a P2117 trouble code may include:

  • Unresponsive accelerator
  • Limited or no acceleration
  • Engine stalling at idle
  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Inoperative cruise control

What are some common causes of the code?

Causes of this throttle/pedal position sensor code P2117 may include:

  1. Faulty TPS or PPS
  2. Open or shorted circuits between TPS, PPS and PCM
  3. Corroded electrical connectors
  4. Faulty DBW actuator motor

What are the P2117 troubleshooting steps?

Check your vehicle information source for technical service bulletins (TSB) that match the make, model and engine size of the vehicle in question. The symptoms and stored codes should also match. If you find a matching TSB, it will greatly assist your diagnosis.

My diagnosis for a P2117 code typically begins with a visual inspection of all cables and connectors related to the system. I would also check the throttle plate for signs of carbon buildup or damage. Excessive carbon buildup, which keeps the throttle body open at startup, can result in a P2117 code being stored. Clean carbon from the throttle body according to manufacturer recommendations and repair or replace any faulty wiring or components as needed, then retest the DBW system.

You will need a diagnostic scanner, digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM) and a reliable vehicle information source to accurately diagnose this code.

Next, connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored trouble codes. Record them in case you need the information later in your diagnosis. Also save any associated freeze frame data. These notes may prove useful, especially if the P2117 is intermittent. Now clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if the code resets.

If the code immediately resets, voltage spikes and inconsistencies between the TPS, PPS and PCM can be detected using scanner data stream. Narrow the data stream to display only relevant data for faster response. If no spikes and/or inconsistencies are detected, use the DVOM to retrieve live data from each sensor signal wire. To retrieve live data with the DVOM, connect the positive test lead to the appropriate signal wire and the ground test lead to the ground circuit, then observe the DVOM display while operating the DBW. Look for voltage spikes when the accelerator is slowly operated from closed position to wide open throttle. Voltage typically ranges from 0.5 volts at closed throttle to 4.5 volts at wide open throttle, but consult your vehicle information source for exact specifications. If spikes or other irregularities are detected, suspect the tested sensor is faulty. An oscilloscope is also an excellent tool for testing sensor operation.

If the sensor operates as expected, disconnect all associated controllers and test individual circuits with the DVOM. System wiring diagrams and connector pinout charts can help you determine which circuits to test and where to find them on the vehicle. Repair or replace system circuits as needed.

Only suspect a faulty PCM or PCM programming error after all system sensors and circuits have been verified.

Some manufacturers require the throttle body, throttle actuator motor and all throttle position sensors to be replaced as a single unit

P2118 Throttle Actuator Control Motor Current Range

Code Severity and Symptoms

The severity of this code can range from moderate to severe depending on the specific malfunction. Symptoms of a P2118 fault code may include:

  • Engine does not start
  • Worsening poor performance
  • Little or no response from the accelerator
  • Engine warning light illuminated
  • Smoke from the exhaust pipe
  • Increased fuel consumption

Common Causes of a P2118 Code

Possible causes of this code may include:

  • Faulty throttle body
  • Dirty throttle plate or linkage
  • Defective throttle position sensor
  • Faulty accelerator pedal position sensor
  • Throttle actuator control motor is defective
  • Corroded or damaged connector
  • Faulty or damaged wiring
  • Defective PCM

Common Repairs

  • Replacement of the throttle body
  • Cleaning the throttle plate and linkage
  • Replacement of the throttle position sensor
  • Replacement of the throttle actuator control motor
  • Replacement of the accelerator pedal position sensor
  • Cleaning corrosion from connectors
  • Repairing or replacing wiring
  • Flashing or replacing PCM

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

Check TSBs
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 in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

The second step is to locate all components associated with the throttle actuator control system. This will include the throttle body, throttle position sensor, throttle actuator control motor, PCM, and the accelerator position sensor on a simplex system. Once these components are located, a thorough visual inspection should be performed to check that all associated cables show no obvious defects such as scraping, rubbing, exposed wires, burning, or melted plastic. Next, check the connectors of each component for security, corrosion, and damaged pins.

The final visual and physical inspection is the throttle plate. With the ignition off, you should be able to rotate the throttle plate by pushing on it. It should rotate to the wide-open position. If there is sludge behind the plate, it should be cleaned while accessible.

Advanced Steps

Advanced steps become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to perform accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and the specific vehicle’s technical references. Voltage requirements will be highly dependent on the specific vehicle’s year, model, and engine.

Circuit Checks

With the ignition switch in the off position, disconnect the electrical connector from the throttle body. Locate the 2 pins that go to the motor(s) on the throttle body. Using a digital ohmmeter set to ohms, check the resistance of the motor(s). The motor should read approximately between 2 and 25 ohms depending on the specific vehicle (consult manufacturer specifications for your vehicle). If the resistance is too high or too low, the throttle body will need to be replaced. If all tests have passed so far, you will want to check the motor voltage signals.

If this process identifies a missing power source or ground, continuity tests may be required to check wiring integrity. Continuity tests should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit, and normal readings should be 0 ohms of resistance unless otherwise specified in the technical data. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that needs to be repaired or replaced.

I hope the information in this article has helped point you in the right direction to correct the issue with your throttle actuator control system. This article is strictly informational, and the specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle should always take priority.

P2119 Throttle Actuator Control Throttle Body Range

Code Severity and Symptoms

The severity of this code can range from moderate to severe depending on the specific malfunction. Symptoms of a P2119 fault code may include:

  • Engine does not start
  • Worsening poor performance
  • Little or no response from the accelerator
  • Engine warning light illuminated
  • Smoke from the exhaust pipe
  • Increased fuel consumption

Common Causes of a P2119 Code

Possible causes of this code may include:

  • Faulty throttle body
  • Dirty throttle plate or linkage
  • Defective throttle position sensor
  • Faulty accelerator pedal position sensor
  • Throttle actuator control motor is defective
  • Corroded or damaged connector
  • Faulty or damaged wiring
  • Defective PCM

Common Repairs

  • Replacement of the throttle body
  • Cleaning of the throttle plate and linkage
  • Replacement of the throttle position sensor
  • Replacement of the throttle actuator control motor
  • Replacement of the accelerator pedal position sensor
  • Cleaning corrosion from connectors
  • Repairing or replacing wiring
  • PCM replacement

Diagnostic and Repair Procedures

Check TSBs
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 in the long run by pointing you in the right direction.

The second step is to locate all components associated with the throttle actuator control system. This will include the throttle body, throttle position sensor, throttle actuator control motor, PCM, and the accelerator position sensor on a simplex system. Once these components are located, a thorough visual inspection should be performed to check that all associated cables show no obvious defects such as scraping, rubbing, exposed wires, burning, or melted plastic. Then, check the connectors of each component for security, corrosion, and damaged pins.

The final visual and physical inspection is the throttle plate. With the ignition off, you should be able to rotate the throttle plate by pushing on it. It should rotate to the wide-open position. If there is sludge behind the plate, it should be cleaned while accessible.

Advanced Steps

Advanced steps become very vehicle-specific and require appropriate advanced equipment to perform accurately. These procedures require a digital multimeter and the vehicle-specific technical references. Voltage requirements will be highly dependent on the specific vehicle year, model, and engine.

Circuit Checks

With the ignition switch in the off position, disconnect the electrical connector from the throttle body. Locate the 2 pins that go to the motor(s) on the throttle body. Using a digital ohmmeter set to ohms, check the resistance of the motor(s). The motor should read approximately between 2 and 25 ohms depending on the specific vehicle (consult the manufacturer’s specifications for your vehicle). If the resistance is too high or too low, the throttle body will need to be replaced. If all tests have passed up to this point, you will want to check the motor voltage signals.

If this process identifies a missing power source or ground, continuity tests may be required to check the integrity of the wiring. Continuity tests should always be performed with the power disconnected from the circuit, and normal readings should be 0 ohms of resistance unless otherwise stated in the technical data. Resistance or lack of continuity is an indication of faulty wiring that must be repaired or replaced.

I hope the information in this article has helped guide you in the right direction to correct the issue with your throttle actuator control system. This article is strictly informational, and the specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle should always take priority.

P2120 Throttle Position Sensor/Switch B Circuit Malfunction

Symptoms

Potential symptoms include:

  • MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) illumination
  • Misfires at idle or highway speed
  • Poor idle quality
  • May not idle
  • May start and stall

Causes

Potential causes of P2120 code include:

  1. Sticking throttle return spring
  2. Corrosion of MAP or TPS connectors
  3. Misrouted harness causing chafing
  4. Faulty TPS
  5. Faulty PCM

Possible Solutions

If you have access to a scan tool, with KOEO (Key On Engine Off), monitor TPS voltage. With the throttle closed, voltage should be approximately 0.45 volts. It should gradually sweep upward to about 4.5 to 5 volts as you press the accelerator. Sometimes only an oscilloscope can capture an intermittent problem in the TPS signal voltage. If you notice an issue in the TPS sweep voltage, replace the TPS.

NOTE: Some TPS sensors require fine adjustment. If you are not comfortable using a DVOM (Digital Volt Ohm Meter) to adjust the new TPS, then it is best to take the vehicle to a shop. If the voltage is not 0.45 volts (+ or – approximately 0.3 volts) with the throttle closed or if the reading is “stuck,” disconnect the TPS connector. With KOEO, check for the 5-volt reference voltage present at the connector and a good ground. You can check the signal circuit continuity by jumpering a fuse wire between the TPS connector ground circuit and the signal circuit. If the TPS reading on the scan tool now reads zero, replace the TPS. However, if it does not change the reading to zero, check for an open or short in the signal wire and if none is found, suspect a faulty PCM. If manipulating the TPS wiring harness causes a change at idle, suspect a faulty TPS.

P2121 Throttle Position Sensor D Circuit Range / Performance

Symptoms

Potential

Symptoms of a P2121 trouble code may include:

  • Illumination of the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) (Check Engine Light or Service Engine Soon light)
  • Intermittent stumbling during acceleration or deceleration
  • Black smoke puff during acceleration
  • No start condition

Causes

A P2121 code may indicate that one or more of the following events has occurred:

  • TPS has an intermittent open or short internally
  • Harness rubbing causing an open or short in the wiring
  • Poor connection at the TPS
  • Faulty PCM (less likely)
  • Water or corrosion in the connector or sensor

Possible Solutions

1. If you have access to a scan tool, check the idle and WOT (wide open throttle) readings for the TPS. Verify if they are close to the specifications mentioned above. If not, replace the TPS and recheck.

2. Look for an intermittent open or short in the TPS signal. To do this, you cannot use a scan tool. You will need an oscilloscope. The reason is that scan tools sample many different readings over one or two data lines and may miss an intermittent interruption. Connect your oscilloscope and observe the signal. It should sweep up and down smoothly without jerks or spikes.

3. If no issue was found, perform a wiggle test. To do this, wiggle the connector and harness while observing the pattern. Does it stop? If yes, replace the TPS and recheck.

4. If you have no TPS signal, check for the 5-volt reference at the connector. If present, check if the ground circuit is open or shorted.

5. Ensure the signal circuit is not at 12V. It should never have battery voltage. If it does, trace the circuit for a short and repair.

6. Look for water in the connector and replace the TPS if necessary.