Guide To P2140 OBD Error Code Solutions

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You have noticed something different with your vehicle, it’s in limp mode and you have a P2140 code flashing. Well this is because the computer of your vehicle the Powertrain Control Module has detected an issue with the Throttle Position sensor or the Pedal Position sensor of your vehicle. Find out more about this code and how to resolve it by reading along.

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 P2140 here:

Common Symptoms

• The Check Engine Light has been turned on
• Black smoke coming out from the exhaust
• Poor or no acceleration power
• Engine doesn’t start
• Engine starts but then stalls or comes to a stall when coming to stop
• The RPM of the throttle is stuck

Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P2140

• Repair or replace all the damaged wiring and connectors
• Repair or replace the electronic throttle body
• Repair or replace the throttle body position sensor
• Repair or replace the accelerator pedal position sensor
• Repair or replace the throttle actuator control motor
• Repair or replace the throttle position actuator
• Reprogram the throttle position sensor

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Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose the P2140 fault code:

You will have to get hold of all the instruments needed for successful diagnosis of this code, these will be; an OBD scanner, digital volt/ohmmeter, and an oscilloscope. In terms of information guides, you will need the service manual or the Technical Service Bulletin of your specific vehicle.

Now that you have everything handy, start by performing a visual inspection of the wiring and connectors, any damages noticed will have to be repaired or replaced. Check for all damages, like disconnected or shorted wires, some may even be corroded. Check the connectors and their pins for any loose or bent pins. Once you have solved these electrical issues, re-test the system so that you can be sure if the repairs have been successful. After verifying that all the system wiring, connectors and components are in working condition, you can connect your diagnostic scanner and retrieve all the codes stored. Remember to freeze frame the data, as it will help in diagnosing intermittent conditions which may have contributed to this code being set. Now, you can clear the codes and take your vehicle on a test drive to see if it returns or if the PCM enters readiness mode. If the latter happens, it’s a sign that you’re having an intermittent condition, these are tricky to resolve and may require the problem to worsen. If the code returns, you will have to continue your diagnosis.

Disconnect the connector from the sensor and using the DVOM check for voltage and ground signals, you should be able to find a 5-volt reference signal and a battery ground. You will have to refer the TSB for the wiring diagrams and connector views, they will help you in performing diagnosis accurately. If you find no reference voltage and/or ground then disconnect the PCM connector as well as the related controller connectors and perform a resistance and continuity test on all the circuits. Any shorted circuits will have to be repaired or replaced as needed. After doing the repairs or replacements, you can clear the codes again and go on a test drive to see if the repair was successful.

Upon inspection if you have found that the signals and voltage are not as per the manufacturer's specifications you will have to use the oscilloscope to monitor the operation of the pedal sensor. Be observant and see if there are any abnormal spikes in voltage, glitches or any other abnormalities present. As per need, you may have to replace the throttle pedal position sensor. Clear the codes again and do another test drive to see if the code returns or not.

If the code still returns and you are sure that the throttle position sensor as well as its related circuits are in tune with the manufacturer's specifications then the problem must be with the PCM or any other controller. In order to replace the controller, reprogramming will be required by a professional.

Now continue your diagnosis and test the voltage and ground signals at the throttle actuator control motor connector, using the scanner. Make sure the motor is activated when performing this test. If you inf no voltage or ground signals, then disconnect the connector from the PCM and all the related controllers and perform a test on individual circuits for resistance and continuity. As per findings, repair or replace any shorted, open or disconnected circuits. Clear the codes and do another test drive to see if the repairs have been successful. If you found that the voltage and ground signal were present, then you will have to replace the motor, clear the codes and then do the test drive to verify successful repairs. In some cases you may have to replace the whole throttle body, pedal sensor replacement may also be recommended along with the replacement of the throttle body.

Your vehicle Controller Area Network is a communication bus that allowed multiple micro-controllers to communicate with each other without the presence of a host computer. The CAN is a complex system with a lot of wiring harnesses and connectors which are used as a medium of information shared between two or more modules in the vehicle. If there’s an issue with the CAN bus then it can be rather difficult to diagnose and professional help will be needed. Due to the bulk circuitry involved it’s best if an experienced vehicle diagnostician looks into this matter. A specialised CAN scanner has to be used to show pin values and control module operation, it’s not possible to diagnose this code using a DVOM when the problem is with the CAN, as thousands of circuits will have to be scanned independently.

To diagnose ground discrepancies you will need an auxiliary ground cable. Sometimes the engine and transmission ground cables are left dangling after performing repairs, these will to be checked and repaired accordingly. Any other corroded or loose electrical connectors may also cause increased circuit resistance and hence have these codes set. Using the TDB locate and test continuity between the individual controller connectors of the CAN bus system. After checking them with the manufacturers specifications and repair as needed. It is a more economical option to replace defective wiring than removing a whole complex web of wiring harnesses.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P2140 Code

• Failed Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) assembly
• Malfunction of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
• Failure of the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)
• Problems with the wiring