What the P2118 code means?

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.

What causes the P2118 code?

1. Faulty throttle body
2. Dirty throttle plate or linkage
3. Faulty throttle position sensor
4. Defective accelerator pedal position sensor
5. Throttle actuator control motor is defective
6. Corroded or damaged connector

What are the symptoms of the P2118 code?

Symptoms may include black smoke at start up, poor or no acceleration, a no start condition, misfire at idle, start and stall If this code is stored, and a service engine soon lamp has not yet been illuminated, the code may be shown as a pending code.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P2118 code:

Symptoms and stored codes that are present as a reaction to a communication failure are often misdiagnosed and repaired as the cause of the problem. Obviously, this leads to an unsuccessful repair. Engine misfire codes, lean exhaust codes, fuel injector codes, and virtually any other drivability or transmission code that is accompanied by a controller communication code can potentially be a pitfall for misdiagnosis.

What repairs can fix the P2118 code?

a. Wiring harness repaired or replaced
b. Throttle actuator control motor replaced
c. Pedal position sensor replaced
d. Faulty throttle position sensor replaced
e. Poor electrical connection resolved