Error Code P210A: What It Means & What To Do?

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Error code P0210A flashing? Don’t know what to do about it? Don’t worry, Parts Avatar is here for you! Here’s all you need to know about the error code P210A. This OBD-II code decreased engine performance is generally referred to as a throttle actuator "B" control motor circuit/open. The opening of the throttle valve is controlled by the electronic throttle control system (ETCS). The accelerator pedal position sensor (APP) transmits a signal to the engine's control module (ECM) whenever the accelerator pedal is pressed by the driver, that informs the PCM about how much power the driver is requesting from the engine. Accordingly, the PCM then commands the throttle plate to open. The PCM stores the code P210A, when it notices that the throttle is not opening precisely in proportion to the signal received from the APP Sensor. Also, at times the PCM puts the engine into “limp home mode” therefore limiting the power available from the engine to avoid unrequired acceleration.

The opening and closing of the throttle valve and the functioning of the throttle actuator is monitored by the engine control module (ECM). The ECM receives the power supply for the throttle control motor through the throttle control motor relay. The ECM also regulates the ON/OFF of the throttle control motor relay. Battery voltage is provided to ECM when the ignition switch is turned ON, and a signal ‘ON’ is sent to the throttle control motor relay by the ECM. Similarly, whenever the ignition switch is turned OFF, and an ‘OFF’ signal is sent by the ECM to throttle control motor relay, no battery voltage is sent to the ECM. The throttle position sensor that is positioned over the throttle body, detects the opening angle of the throttle valve. The ECM further receives the feedback via the throttle position sensor. This feedback received by the ECM enables it to control the throttle actuator and regulate the opening angle of the throttle responding to driver inputs.

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

• A possible corrosion in the circuit to the throttle actuator
• A failure in the throttle actuator – or a short circuit in the circuit (electrically)
• In rare cases, a malfunctioning PCM

1. Throttle Actuator Connector - See the error code P210A? Don’t know the reason? Well, it could be due to a malfunctioning throttle actuator connector. Apart from this, a bad throttle actuator connector also accompanies along a lot of problems like the engine stalling and a poor fuel economy. So in order to get rid of these change or repair your throttle actuator connector right away with Parts Avatar.
2. Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) - Well, a damaged electronic throttle control system (ETCS) triggers problems like engine stalling, slow idle or an inability to shift may be observed at times too. Change or repair as soon as possible form Parts Avatar to avoid problems relating to the code P210A.
3. Throttle Valve - A delay in engine response is the most common problem caused due to a defective throttle valve. In order to get rid of these problems and the error code P210A, it is essential to repair or replace the throttle valve.
4. Accelerator Pedal - Experiencing an inconsistency in the engine response? Or a reduced fuel efficiency? Well, it could all be due to a faulty accelerator pedal. In addition to these, the driver is likely to observe an illuminated check engine light too. Tune into Parts Avatar now!
5. Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor (APP) - This sensor's chief task is to monitor the position of the throttle pedal and transmit an electronic signal to open the throttle body as the gas pedal is depressed. So a faulty one can really be problematic triggering a whole lot of problems. Tune into Parts Avatar now!
6. Powertrain Control Module - Fearing an error code P210A? A malfunctioning powertrain control module is likely to invite issues like a poorly running engine, increase in carbon emission, choking, stuttering and stalling of the engine. Well, to avoid these, we recommend a replacement or repair of the powertrain control module before it worsens the condition of the system.
7. Throttle Plate - Electrical problems, dirt, grime, carbon deposits and vacuum leaks are likely to follow a damaged throttle plate. In order to get rid of the problems and the error code P210A, change or replace the faulty throttle plate.

Well, if you are looking to know about the common symptoms related to this error code P210A, we are have worked out a small list to help you discover this error code with your vehicle.

Common Symptoms

• An illuminated malfunction indicator light
• A stable idle speed
• A failure to accelerate engine

Once you know the symptoms of your vehicle’s problem, it becomes easy to detect it and get started with solving it. So, next on our list is few common steps to correct this issue with your vehicle’s

• Repair or replace a short circuit in the circuit to the throttle actuator
• A malfunctioning PCM should be repaired or replaced according to the requirements
• A defective throttle actuator should be changed or repaired
• Measures should be taken to fix a corrosion in the circuit (throttle)

If you need parts to fix this issue, you no longer need to search for them. We at PartsAvatar Canada have an extensive range of auto parts throttle actuator, electronic throttle control system, throttle valve, accelerator pedal, accelerator pedal position sensor, PCM, throttle plate in stock from you, ranging from all replacement parts to all interior and exterior parts

It is essential to diagnose this fault code. Here are some steps which a mechanic should follow for diagnosing the problem that triggered a P210A code to be stored:

To start with, it’s always advised to confirm and verify the technical service bulletins (TSB) for the your vehicle. It's always helpful if you know the issue and the correct diagnosis put out by the manufacturer as it really helps to save time and money while the procedure is being performed. The next step should be to locate the throttle actuator B (TA-B) in the vehicle. The actuator can be found situated in the front of the engine, on the top of engine or inside the wheel wells or against the bulkhead. Now that it has been located, a visual inspection should be performed of the wirings and the connectors (one should look for scraping, rubbing, bare wires, burn spots or melted plastic).

Further, the connector should be pulled apart in order to inspect the terminals (the metal parts) present inside the connector. Any burns or signs of a green tint signal at corrosion. If required, the cleansing of the terminals should be performed using electrical contact cleaner and a plastic bristle brush. After they have dried, electrical grease should be applied where the terminals contact. After all this has been performed, a scan tool should be used to clear the diagnostic trouble code from the memory. After the codes have been cleared, the system should be retested to see if the code P210A returns. If the code fails to return, faulty connection should be suspected. It should be noted that specifically for this code P210A, commonly the area of concern includes the relays/connections to the relays with an actuator defect a close second. On the other hand, if the code P210A reappears, the actuator needs to be tested along with its associated circuits. Generally, there are 2 wires found at each throttle actuator. Firstly, the harness going to the throttle actuator should be disconnected.

Using a digital volt ohm meter (DVOM), one lead of the meter should be connected to the terminal of the actuator. Next, the remaining meter lead should be connected to the other actuator terminal (It shouldn’t be loose or short circuited). Also, it is important to verify the resistance specifications for the vehicle. The throttle actuator should be replaced or repaired if the actuator motor is open or short circuited (infinite resistance or no no resistance/0 ohms).

Using a DVOM, check to ensure that there is 12V present in the throttle actuator power supply circuit (Red lead to the actuator power supply circuit, black lead to a good ground) if the test has been cleared successfully. The throttle actuator should be turned on using a scan tool (that can activate the throttle actuator). The wiring from the PCM or relay to the actuator should be repaired, if there aren’t 12 volts to the actuator. If everything is okay, inspect to ensure that there is a good ground at the throttle actuator.

Next, a test light should be connected to the 12V battery positive (red terminal) and the other end of the test light ( to the ground circuit going to the throttle actuator circuit ground) should be touched. Utilizing the scan tool, that activates the throttle actuator, it should be seen that if the test light comes on every time the scan tool activates the actuator. If the test light fails to light up, it signals at an error in the problem circuit. If the light illuminates, the wiring harness connecting to the actuator should should be twisted to see if the test light flickers signalling at an intermittent condition. If the code P210A tends to reappear even after the tests have been cleared, a malfunctioning throttle actuator should be suspected (even though a defective PCM could not be ruled out until the throttle actuator had been restored). It is always recommended to seek assistance from a trained technician. Also, it is important to program or calibrate the PCM before installation so that it works correctly.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P210A Code

Here we have listed a few common mistakes that should be avoided while diagnosing the error code P210A:

• A malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM)
• A defect in the throttle body assembly
• Wiring problems