This is one of the most frequent OBD2 trouble codes. Read the full article below to know what it means, how to fix it, and what other codes may show related to it.
Definition
P2111 is an OBD-II Code that refers to Throttle Actuator Control System - Stuck Open
Meaning
A P2111 code is a general diagnostic trouble code that occurs when the PCM/ECM receives a signal that the throttle actuator is not responding properly. The throttle motor manages the throttle plate's movement, allowing more or less air to flow through the engine at different speeds according on the driver's demands. This code can often be caused by a throttle body that is dirty or contaminated, but can also be caused by other problems such as a faulty accelerator pedal position sensor or wiring issues.
DTC will set a P2111 code and illuminate the Check Engine Light when the PCM senses that the signal is sending signals that are out of normal operating parameters.
Causes
Common causes for this code include:
- The throttle position sensor or pedal position sensor may be faulty
- Throttle body is filthy or faulty
- The throttle actuator control motor in the vehicle is defective
- Wires may be damaged or a connection circuit might be poor
- Faulty PCM
Symptoms
The symptoms of a P2111 code are:
- Illuminated Check Engine Light
- Tailpipe emits smoke
- Increasingly poor performance
- Bad, or no response from throttle
- Fuel consumption is higher than normal
- The engine will not turn on
- Engine may enter Limp Mode
Diagnosis
To diagnose a P2111 DTC code, a technician would:
- Scan for codes in the ECM and look at the freeze frame data for failure.
- Visually inspect the engine and related systems for damage or dirt.
- Check the voltages and resistances of the related wiring harness.
- Test the throttle position sensor and accelerator pedal position sensor.
- Clean or replace the throttle body, as necessary.
- Repair or replace any faulty wiring or connectors.
- Replace PCM, if necessary.
Common mistakes
The following are some of the most common mistakes that a technician may make when diagnosing a P2111 code:
- Not thoroughly inspecting all the wiring and connectors for damage.
- Not checking the voltages and resistances of the related wiring harness.
- Not testing the throttle position sensor or accelerator pedal position sensor.
- Not cleaning or replacing the throttle body, as necessary.
- Not repairing or replacing any faulty wiring or connectors.
- Not replacing PCM, if necessary.
How serious is this?
A P2111 code is a fairly serious code and should be addressed as soon as possible. Left unchecked, this code can cause increasingly poor performance, smoke from the tailpipe, and even engine failure.
What repairs can fix the code?
The following are solutions that may fix this problem:
- Repairing or replacing any damaged wiring or connectors.
- Cleaning or replacing the throttle body, as necessary.
- Testing and replacing the throttle position sensor or accelerator pedal position sensor.
- Replacing PCM, if necessary.
Related codes
A P2111 is related to and may be accompanied by the following codes:
P2110 – Throttle Actuator Control System - Stuck Closed
P2113 – Throttle Actuator Control System - Range/Performance Problem
P2120 – Throttle Actuator Control System - Malfunction
P2119 – Throttle Actuator Control System - electrical Malfunction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the P2111 code is a diagnostic trouble code that refers to a problem with the throttle actuator control system. This code is often caused by a throttle body that is dirty or contaminated, but can also be caused by other problems such as a faulty accelerator pedal position sensor or wiring issues.
The symptoms of this code can include the Check Engine Light illuminating, poor performance, and increased fuel consumption. It is a fairly serious code and should be addressed as soon as possible.