Throttle Actuator Control Motor Circuit Open
The P2100 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Throttle Actuator Control Motor Circuit Open. This is a critical severity code.
- Keep driving?
- No — stop driving
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- $200 - $700 (parts and labor)
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What Are the Symptoms of P2100?
- Reduced engine power or limp mode
- Engine may not respond to accelerator pedal
- Throttle warning light on
- Engine idle only -- no acceleration
- Check engine light on
What Causes P2100? (Most Likely First)
- Open circuit in throttle actuator motor wiring Very High
- Faulty electronic throttle body motor High
- Disconnected throttle body connector High
- Corroded throttle body connector pins Moderate
- PCM throttle motor driver circuit failure Low
Can I Still Drive with P2100?
No — stop driving. P2100 is rated critical severity. Continuing to drive in this state risks further damage — get it looked at before your next trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code P2100?
No. The vehicle will be in severe limp mode or may not accelerate at all. The electronic throttle body cannot open without the motor circuit, so the engine will only idle. Have the vehicle towed to a repair shop.
What is a throttle actuator control motor?
Modern vehicles use an electronic throttle body (drive-by-wire) where a small electric motor opens and closes the throttle plate instead of a physical cable. The PCM controls this motor based on accelerator pedal position and other inputs.
Can I clean the electronic throttle body to fix this?
Cleaning will not fix an open circuit. This code specifically indicates an electrical problem with the motor circuit, not a mechanical sticking issue. However, if the throttle body is being replaced, cleaning the intake manifold bore is good practice.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
How Do You Diagnose P2100?
-
Inspect throttle body electrical connector for damage, corrosion, or disconnection
-
Measure throttle motor resistance across motor pins -- typical spec is 1-5 ohms
-
Check for open circuits in wiring from PCM to throttle body motor -- continuity should be present
-
Verify PCM is providing voltage to throttle motor pins when commanded -- should see battery voltage
-
If wiring is intact and motor resistance is out of spec, replace the electronic throttle body
Sources 1
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines the generic OBD-II code ranges)
Which Vehicles Commonly Get P2100?
- 2007-2017 Toyota Camry
- 2008-2016 Nissan Altima
- 2006-2015 Honda Accord
- 2009-2018 Ford Fusion
- 2010-2019 Chevrolet Equinox
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