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P2118 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Throttle Actuator Control Motor Current Range/Performance". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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The P2118 code is a general OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that is referencing the throttle actuator control motor current / performance. This code may be seen with other throttle position sensor codes.
The throttle actuator control motor is used on cars with electronically controlled throttle bodies also called drive-by-wire. On these systems, the gas pedal is a sensor that sends a signal to the throttle actuator control motor which opens and closes the throttle plate according to demand.
When the engine control module (ECM) detects out-of-range voltage or poor performance from the throttle actuator control motor, the P2118 code is set along with a Check Engine Light on the dashboard. When the P2118 code is set, it also triggers a failsafe mode to prevent damage to the vehicle. The failsafe mode will remain until normal operation is found or until the fault is resolved.
These are the most common causes of the P2118 code:
The P2118 code can have some rather serious symptoms. The worst being the car not responding at all if the gas pedal is depressed due to the failsafe mode. Other possible symptoms are an engine misfire, poorly running engine, lack of power, and the Check Engine Light being illuminated. In some cases, the Check Engine Light may not be seen until after the symptoms start.
Qualified technicians will begin by using a scan tool to check for any codes stored in the vehicle's ECM. All the codes will be noted including the codes stored in its history and codes that may be pending. Each code will also have freeze frame data associated with it which tells technicians what the vehicle conditions were when the code was set and which code was set first.
All codes will then be cleared and a test drive performed. Upon returning from the test drive, the technician will check that the P2118 code is present again.
Next, a visual inspection will be performed looking for any obviously failed components or damaged wiring. Then, the scan tool will be used to monitor the data stream and check the throttle and gas position sensor values as they are operated. A multimeter will then be used to check for voltage at the throttle actuator control motor.
Lastly, the air intake will be removed and the throttle body will be inspected to see if the throttle plate is capable of moving.
Mistakes can easily be made when simple steps such as the visual inspection are overlooked. The repair could be as simple as finding a frayed wire and repairing it. All steps must be followed in the proper order and completed in their entirety.
The P2118 code can prevent the vehicle’s throttle from operating, which can cause some serious problems. The car may not drive or move after symptoms start, so extreme care should be taken and the vehicle should not be driven if drivability concerns are present.
Generally, simple repairs such as these fix the P2118 code:
An advanced-level scan tool is very important for accurately diagnosing the P2118 code. These scan tools allow technicians much greater access into the vehicle's ECM. Basic scan tools are only able to clear codes and show the current codes. The advanced scan tools allow access to the live data stream which displays useful sensor data in ways that otherwise would not be available.
YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.
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