P2102 critical

Throttle Actuator Control Motor Circuit Low

The P2102 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Throttle Actuator Control Motor Circuit Low. This is a critical severity code.

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Keep driving?: No -- stop driving
DIY difficulty: hard
Estimated cost: $200 - $700 (parts and labor)

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Common Symptoms

Severe reduced engine power
Engine stuck at idle or very low RPM
Throttle does not respond to gas pedal
Reduced power warning light on
Check engine light on

Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)

Throttle motor control wire shorted to ground Very High
Faulty electronic throttle body motor (internal short) High
Water or moisture intrusion in throttle body connector Moderate
Chafed wiring near engine or exhaust Moderate
PCM motor driver circuit shorted internally Low

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

Disconnect throttle body and measure motor pin resistance -- should be 1-5 ohms, not near 0
Check throttle motor wires for shorts to ground -- disconnect at both ends and measure resistance to ground
Inspect wiring harness routing for chafing against engine components or heat shields
Check throttle body connector for water intrusion or contamination causing short circuits
If wiring is clean, replace electronic throttle body assembly

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with code P2102?

No, the vehicle will not accelerate properly. The PCM detects a short circuit in the throttle motor and shuts down throttle control for safety. The engine may only idle. Have the vehicle towed for repair.

What causes a low circuit in the throttle motor?

A low circuit means the motor control wire has lower resistance than expected, typically from a short to ground. This can be caused by damaged wiring insulation, water in the connector, or an internal fault in the throttle body motor.

Is the electronic throttle body expensive to replace?

Electronic throttle bodies typically cost $150-$400 for the part depending on the vehicle. Labor adds $100-$300. Some aftermarket options are available at lower cost. Always clear codes and perform a throttle relearn after replacement.