Throttle Actuator Control Motor Current Range/Performance
The P2118 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Throttle Actuator Control Motor Current Range/Performance. This is a critical severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Short distances only
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- $100 - $600 (parts and labor)
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Common Symptoms
- Reduced engine power
- Intermittent throttle response issues
- Throttle hesitation during acceleration
- Limp mode activated
- Check engine light on
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Throttle body motor drawing abnormal current (worn or binding) Very High
- Carbon buildup causing throttle plate to bind High
- Intermittent short in throttle motor wiring Moderate
- Corroded throttle body connector increasing resistance Moderate
- PCM motor driver detecting abnormal current draw Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Clean electronic throttle body to reduce mechanical resistance on the throttle plate
-
Measure throttle motor current draw with a clamp meter while commanding throttle open and closed
-
Check throttle body connector for corrosion or high resistance connections
-
Move throttle plate by hand (engine off, disconnected) -- should move smoothly without binding
-
Replace throttle body if motor current is outside specification after cleaning
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing P2118 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2006-2015 Ford Mustang/F-150 4.6L/5.0L easy DIY
P2118 = throttle actuator motor circuit current range/performance. Usually a failing throttle body motor drawing excessive current. Verify with clamp meter on TB motor wire -- spec is typically under 2A at idle. Replace the throttle body.
Labor: 30 min2008-2014 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra easy DIY
Voltage drop on throttle body ground circuit -- corroded G101 ground stud behind driver-side headlight. Clean stud and re-torque. Voltage drop should be under 0.1V between ground stud and battery negative with throttle at WOT.
Labor: 20 min2010-2017 Ford Fusion/Focus 2.0L/2.5L easy DIY
After throttle body replacement, always perform the PCM relearn. Without it, the ECM can log P2118 because it thinks the motor is out of range. Ford: KOEO 30 sec, then KOER at idle 5 min. GM: idle re-learn with Tech 2 or equivalent.
Labor: 15 minFrequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code P2118?
Only short distances. The PCM may limit engine power when the throttle motor current is abnormal. The vehicle may feel sluggish or hesitant. Drive to a repair shop as soon as possible.
What causes abnormal throttle motor current?
The most common cause is carbon buildup making the throttle plate harder to move, forcing the motor to draw more current. A worn motor with increased internal resistance or binding gears can also cause abnormal current readings.
Can I just clean the throttle body to fix this?
Often yes. If carbon buildup is causing the throttle plate to bind, cleaning restores normal motor current draw. However, if the motor itself is worn or the internal gears are damaged, the entire throttle body needs replacement.
Sources
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
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