Error Code P2168: What It Means & What To Do?

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See the error code P2168? Worried? Parts Avatar has a solution for you! Here we have written down all that you need to know about the error code. This OBD-II code decreased engine performance is generally described as a throttle/pedal position sensor "F" maximum stop performance. The throttle position sensor is positioned over the throttle body of the intake manifold while on the other hand the pedal position sensor/switch is a part of the assembly pedal assembly. These sensors installed update the engine control module (PCM) about how fast the driver wants to go and how quickly it needs to get up to speed. The code P2168 is set as soon as the PCM detects a malfunction with this sensor. Also, at times the PCM may also restrict the speed of the vehicle to 20 miles per hour or less ("Limp home mode") to protect the engine and the driver. This mostly happens due to the control module’ failure in accurately detecting the engine performance that has been requested.

The code P2168 is set when the PCM notifies a maximum stop/wide open throttle position sensor voltage signal (from the sensor designated F) that fails to match the programmed parameter. One can observe an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) too. Whensoever this code is stored, the PCM generally enters the limp in mode. The engine acceleration could be acutely restricted (if not totally disabled) in this mode.

What causes this problem with the Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor F Maximum Stop Performance?

• A faulty TPS or PPS
• Loose or corroded circuits between the TPS, PPS and the PCM
• Burnt electrical connectors
• A fault in the DBW actuator motor

1. Powertrain control module - Deteriorating engine performance, unexplained drops in the fuel economy and also problems in shifting the gears when in transmission are some basic issues that follow a malfunction in the powertrain control module. Tune into Parts Avatar if you want to get rid of these problems caused by the error code P2168.
2. Engine control module - Abbreviated ECM; this is an integral control unit. So a defective one should be changed immediately, if you want to avoid problems with the engine stalling, rough idles and sudden falls in the economy. Tune into Parts Avatar.
3. Throttle position sensor - A distorted throttle position sensor can end up being the chief host inviting the error code P2168. Not only this you are likely to observe unexplained inconsistencies with the throttle body too. So replacing one can be one of the wisest decisions to avoid a problematic system.
4. Throttle position switch - Deficiency of power? No acceleration in the vehicle? Difficulty to maintain an optimum fuel efficiency? We recommend you to change your throttle position switch immediately if you wish to avoid the problems caused by the error code P2168.
5. Pedal position sensor - It should be noted that whensoever the pedal position sensor is not functioning in order, it will also lead to problems with fuel efficiency. The pedal position sensor other than monitoring and applying throttle pressure to the throttle body, also helps stabilize throttle control. So we advise you to get your pedal position sensor change or replaced right away to avoid major expensive repairs in future. Tune into Parts Avatar now!
6. Pedal position switch - Check engine light flashing on? Engine not idling smoothly? Car accelerating but not exceeding a relatively low speed ? Well, all of it is triggered due to a fault in the pedal position switch. Tune into Parts Avatar for your new pedal position switch.
7. Electrical connectors - Burnt or malfunctioning electrical connectors can be troublesome. Apart from the error code P2168, it also leads to a difficulty starting the vehicle and loss of battery power. Log into Parts Avatar for top notch electrical connectors offered at budget friendly prices.
8. DBW actuator motor - Weary and damaged DBW actuator motor can often be problematic. It can cause your vehicle to stop suddenly while functioning. So to add some spark to your ride you definitely need the perfect quality DBW actuator motor offered at Parts Avatar. Isn’t that just the perfect deal?
9. Digital voltmeter - Dim lights, service engine lights, odd noises, electrical issues and a whole lot of problems are likely to follow a failed digital voltmeter. Change or repair your digital voltmeter immediately if you want to get rid of these problems.
10. Ohmmeter - When the ohmmeter is defective, you’ll experience a sudden overall downfall in the overall functioning of the engine. Tune into Parts Avatar now if you want to save your hard earned money being spent on unnecessary after repairs.
11. Accelerator pedal position assembly - Confused? Unable to figure out the reason behind all these problems including an inconsistent engine throttle, inefficiency in the functioning of the engine and an illuminated check engine light. It should be noted that, all these follow a malfunction in the accelerator pedal position assembly. Tune into Parts Avatar if you want to overcome the problems caused by the error code P2168.

If you are facing OBD error code P2168, then there are significant common symptoms that can be felt or observed. We have worked out a list here to help you out in understanding this problem better.

Common Symptoms

• Reduced throttle response
• Limited or zero acceleration
• Engine stalling ( when allowed to idle)
• Reluctance when accelerating
• A failed cruise control

It is very important to fix the fault code P2168. So here are some ways with which you can correct this issue:

• Repair or replace a damaged powertrain control module
• Repair or replace a faulty TPS or PPS
• All the corroded electrical connectors should be repaired or replaced
• The DBW actuator motor if damaged should be mended or restored right away

However, if you face any issue then we have stocked a wide range of best priced PCM, ECM, throttle position sensor, throttle position switch, pedal position sensor, pedal position switch, electrical connector, DBW actuator motor, digital volt, ohmmeter, accelerator pedal position assembly and more to help you out in fixing your car.

If you want to easily diagnose this fault code, then all you have to do is to follow the steps which are mentioned below:

A scan tool should be connected to the ECU to check for any codes stored, including history and pending codes. The vehicle information source should be checked for technical service bulletins (TSB) that parallel the make, model, and engine size of the vehicle. It is important that the symptoms and codes stored must also parallel. If in any case, a matching TSB is found, it will help you greatly while performing the diagnosis.

Start with a visual inspection of all system related wiring and connectors. Also, check the throttle plate for any signs of carbon buildup or damage. All the carbon from the throttle body should be cleaned according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Repair or replace the damaged wiring or components. Then the DBW system should be retested. A diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source will be needed to accurately diagnose this code.

Proceeding forward, connect the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port to restore all stored trouble codes. All the information should be written down, as it proves to be quite helpful while performing the diagnosis (especially if the code is pertinent). All the freeze frame data should be stored too.

Next, the codes should be cleared and the vehicle should be test driven. If the code is immediately returns, it is advised to check all the voltage spikes and inconsistencies between the TPS, PPS and the PCM using the scanner data stream.

The data stream should be narrowed down to display only the relevant data for a faster response. If in case, no spikes and/or inconsistencies are found, the DVOM should be used to retrieve live data at each of the sensor signal wires. In order to retrieve live data with the DVOM, the positive test lead should be connected to the appropriate signal wire and the ground test lead to the ground circuit while it is important to observe the DVOM display while operating the DBW. Search for spikes in voltage as the throttle activates slowly from the closed position to wide open throttle.

The voltage present generally ranges from .5-volts at closed throttle to 4.5-volts at wide open throttle. It is essential to refer to the vehicle information source for exact specifications. Also, if spikes or other inconsistencies are detected, suspect that the sensor being tested is malfunctioning.

An oscilloscope proves to be a great tool for probing sensor operation. If the sensor is functioning as per the requirements, all the related controllers should be disconnected and the individual circuits should be tested with the DVOM. The system wiring diagrams and connector pinout charts can be really helpful in establishing the circuits that should be tested along with their locations. Mend or restore system circuits as required. A damaged PCM or a PCM programming error should be suspected only if all system sensors and circuits are observed to be functioning in order. Also, a number of manufacturers want the throttle body, throttle actuator motor and all throttle position sensors to be replaced as a single unit

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P2168 Code

Here we have listed only for you a few common mistakes that should be avoided while diagnosing the error code P2168:

• A faulty accelerator pedal position (APP) assembly
• A malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM)
• A failed throttle position sensor (TPS)
• Wiring issues in the system