P2101 - OBD Trouble Code

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Any problem with the throttle control system will lead to problematic acceleration, lack of power, engine stalling and rough idles. All these will greatly hamper the vehicle performance and will result in Check Engine Light illumination and vehicle going into fail safe mode. If the OBD code P2101 gets flashed in the PCM, it means that the throttle actuator “A” control motor circuit reading is out of range.

The throttle control system and the accelerator pedal position sensor work together in managing the opening and closing of the throttle pedal. If any of the component doesn’t work properly, an OBD code error may get stored in the system. If the PCM finds that the throttle actuator “A” control motor circuit readings are out of specification, OBD code P2101 gets stored in the system.

What causes this problem with the Throttle Actuator A Control Motor Circuit?

• Throttle actuator failure
• Throttle position sensor problem
• Bad throttle control system
• PCM failure that may require reprogramming
• Bad wiring and connectors

1. Pedal Position Sensor - The accelerator pedal position sensor is monitored by the ECU and is one of those constituents which will trigger an error code in the ECU when a fault arises. It would also give rise to the illumination of the check engine light on the dashboard. Buy top notch pedal position sensor from us at economical prices.
2. Coolant Hoses/Pipes - Damaged hoses and pipes can cause leakages and thus reduce the effectiveness of the cooling system. Thus, cracked and damaged pipes must be replaced immediately.
3. Engine Control Module - There can be some engine performance issues due to faulty engine control module. If the ECM fails or has any problems it can lead to performance issues with the vehicle like misfires, hesitation, loss of power, and sometimes even decreased fuel economy.
4. Throttle Position Sensor - Are you experiencing sudden idle surges and sudden hesitation while accelerating? Then these are the symptoms of defective throttle position sensor. Get it checked and replace if needed.
5. Powertrain Control Module - PCM stands for powertrain control module. It is a car part, a control unit which is utilized on motor vehicles. It is generally a combined control unit, consisting of the engine control unit (ECU) and the transmission control unit (TCU).
6. Electronic Control Unit - If your automobile's check engine light remains on constantly, and never goes off, there's a good chance that your vehicle has a damaged electronic control unit. There are a lot of reasons why a car's check engine light will remain on. The most common reason is a defective ECU.
7. Diagnostic Tools - It is always advisable to use correct tools and equipment while resolving any OBD code issue as even small mistakes can lead to wrong diagnosis. Thus, always take help from a professional who has the knowledge and experience to such tools in efficient manner. Buy new quality diagnostic tools from us today!

It is vital to know the symptoms of an issue as only then you would be able to solve the problem. So that’s why we have listed out some major symptoms of OBD Code P2101 here:

Common Symptoms

• The service engine soon light can start lighting up
• The car engine might not begin at all
• There might be no or less throttle response
• Automatic transmission will not move
• Some additional codes may also exist

Want to correct the Trouble Code P2101? Read these points mentioned below:

• Make sure to mend the faulty throttle body
• It is essential to restore the flawed MAP sensor
• Repair or replace the leakage in the vacuum
• Rehabilitate the open or short in the wiring harness
• Carefully adjust the faults in the throttle body
• Recondition the non-functioning powertrain control module

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It is essential to diagnose this fault code. Here are some steps which a mechanic should follow for diagnosing the problem that triggered a P2101 code to be stored:

• This is a general type of error code which is diagnosed with the help of a scanner. The mechanic will insert a scanner to diagnostic port of the vehicle and recover the codes and freeze frame data.
• If he happens to find any additional error codes, he has to address them as well. Once it is done, he has to reset the vehicle, and then test drive to see if the error code appears.
• If the error code does not return, then there can be an erratic condition. Then the mechanic has to check the wires, connectors and other electrical components and quickly replace them if he finds them to be damaged or defective.
• Make sure to retest the entire system after repairs are completed so that you achieve success. Crank the engine and examine the vacuum hoses and throttle air inlet tube for leakage in the vacuum.
• Restore or repair the faulty vacuum lines or constituents as per the need. Then the codes should be cleared up and the entire system should be retested to make sure the issue is repaired.
• Now if all system wiring, connectors, and constituents including the fuses appear to be in good working condition, then a scanner should be connected to the diagnostic connector. After that the mechanic should record all stored codes as well as freeze frame data.
• These details can prove to be very helpful in diagnosing intermittent conditions that may have contributed to this code being stored. You should continue by clearing the code and then the vehicle should be taken out for a test drive to see if the code returns or not. This will help to decide whether or not the malfunction is intermittent. Now once all the codes have been cleared up, then you should test drive the automobile to see if the code returns.
• If the code is not returning immediately, then you might have an intermittent condition. Intermittent conditions can be quite challenging to diagnose and in extreme cases may have to be allowed to worsen before the right diagnosis can even be attempted. This type of code is only applicable for the automobiles with an electronically controlled throttle body.
• These types of systems are frequently referred to as “drive by wire” throttle bodies. A sensor on the accelerator pedal arm inputs a voltage signal to the powertrain control module or some other associated controller which would command the throttle body opened or closed, it totally depends upon the conditions.
• Voltage signals which are coming from the powertrain control module would activate the throttle actuator motor in the direction which is needed by changing voltage levels and polarity. As the throttle actuator motor turns, it would also turn the gear in the throttle body that is meshed with a bigger gear.
• This change in ratio would allow the throttle plate to open swiftly and suddenly or slowly and gradually, as it all depends upon the commands of the controller. The air intake hose from the throttle body should be carefully removed and with the ignition in the “OFF” position, then you should open the throttle plate.
• Examine the inner bore of the throttle body for immoderate amounts of carbon and then it is essential to clean the bore by utilizing a suitable solvent. The edge of the throttle plate should be cleaned properly.
• The code should be cleared up and the automobile should be taken out for a test drive to ensure that your repair was successful. Check voltage and ground signals at the throttle actuator control motor connector, when the motor is activated by using a scanner.
• If there is no presence of the voltage and ground signals, then the connector from the PCM should be disconnected and all associated controllers and test individual circuits for resistance and continuity.
• Repair or restore the open, shorted, or disconnected circuits as per the need. Carefully clear the codes and test drive the automobile to ensure a successful repair.
• If there is a presence of voltage and ground signals at the throttle actuator motor connector, when activated by the scanner, then you must restore the motor, clear the codes, and drive the vehicle to ensure that your repair has been successful. There are many automakers which would provide service parts for “drive by wire” throttle bodies.
• It is likely that you might need to restore the entire throttle body, which typically includes the actuator motor as well as the throttle position sensor. It is also recommended to replace the pedal sensor with throttle body replacement. You can always consult the vehicle service manual for the particular manufacturer’s recommendations.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P2101 Code

• Non-performance of the accelerator pedal position (APP) assembly
• Failure in the car wiring
• The mass airflow (MAF) sensor might not function properly
• Some flaws in the powertrain control module
• Leakage in the vacuum hose
• Quirks in the throttle control motor