P2118 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

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The P2118 is a generic type of diagnostic trouble code which refers to the throttle actuator control motor current/performance. You can find this error code along with the other codes of the throttle position sensor. The P2118 error code will be set in the vehicle if the improper functioning of the throttle control actuator motor is found by the PCM.

The throttle bodies which are electronically controlled uses the throttle actuator control motor. It is also known as drive-by-wire. In these systems, the gas pedal acts as a sensor which sends signals to the throttle actuator control motor so that the throttle plate can be opened and closed as per demand.

When the ECM finds out that the performance is poor or out of range from the throttle actuator control motor, then the P2118 error will be set in the vehicle which displays the check engine light in the dashboard. Additionally, the error code also initiates the fail-safe mode so that the damage to the vehicle can be prevented. This condition will prevail until the issue is resolved or the usual operation is found.

What causes this problem with the Throttle Actuator Control Motor Current Range?

• The throttle actuator control motor might be faulty.
• Failure of the pedal position sensor.
• The throttle position sensor has failed.
• There might be an opening or the actuator circuit might be shorted.
• The electrical connection might be weak.

1. Throttle Body - Poor idle by the vehicle indicates that the throttle body is damaged. Get it replaced to avoid the P2118 error code.
2. Throttle Actuator Control System – Inaccurate air fuel ratio indicates the malfunctioning of the throttle actuator control system. Repair it quickly or replace it with a new one.
3. Powertrain Control Module – The PCM can be faulty, if the performance of the engine is very poor. Get the right replacement for your faulty PCM from PartsAvatar.
4. Engine Control Module – Erratic engine behavior shows that the ECM is damaged or defective. Fix it as soon as possible or replace it with a new ECM.
5. Pedal Position Sensor – If the vehicle experiences sudden jerking, then the pedal position sensor can be faulty. Replace it quickly to avoid P2118 error.
6. Actuator Circuit – If the actuator circuit is damaged, then the check engine light will be illuminated. Fix it instantly by replacing the damaged actuator circuit.

It is essential 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 P2118 here:

Common Symptoms

• Conditions of misfire from the engine.
• Due to the lack of power, engine will run poorly.

Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P2118

• Repairing or replacing the wiring harness.
• Replacing the throttle actuator control motor.
• Changing the pedal position sensor.
• Altering the damaged throttle position sensor.
• The weak electrical connection must be fixed.

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Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this P2118 fault code:

• As a first step in any trouble shoot process, you must search the TSB for your specific vehicle by year, model and power plant. This is very essential as it can save a lot of time by directing in the right path.
• Secondly, you have to locate every component that is linked with the throttle actuator control system. On a simplex system it can include throttle body, throttle position sensor, throttle actuator control motor, the PCM and the accelerator position sensor.
• Once you find all these parts, carefully check them as well as its related wires, because there can be defects like burnt spots or wires, scraping, rubbing or molten plastic.
• Next, you have to check the connectors of every components if there are any damaged pins or corrosion.
• Lastly, the throttle plate must be visually inspected. Turn off the ignition switch and try rotating the throttle plate by pushing it. You must be able to rotate to wide open position.
• While you access, if there is any sludge behind, wipe it cleanly.
• In order to perform the advanced step, you need an advanced equipment which is vehicle specific to perform correctly.
• For this, you will need a digital multimeter and specific technical reference. Depending on the specific year, model and engine, the voltage requirements will change.
• Turn off the ignition switch and separate the electrical connector from the throttle body. Place 2 pins which reaches the motor on the throttle body. Set it, to ohms with the help of ohmmeter, and check for resistance on the motor.
• The reading on the motor will lie between 2 and 25 ohms based on the vehicle specific.
• You have to replace the throttle body if the resistance is either too high or too low. Check the signal of voltage to the motor, if every test is passed.
• You have to perform a continuity test, if there is no power source or ground in order to check the wires integrity. Remove the power from the circuit and perform the continuity test by setting the readings to 0 ohms resistance if specified in the technical data.
• You have to repair or replace the wires if there is no continuity which indicates the wires to be faulty.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P2118 Code

It is very easy to commit a mistake when a small step like visual inspection is ignored. The repair process can be very simple like identifying a damaged wire and fixing it. Each of these steps must be followed in a logical order and accomplished correctly.

P2119 - Throttle Actuator Control Throttle Body Range/Performance