Exhaust Gas Recirculation Throttle Control Circuit Low
What does P2141 mean?
The P2141 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Exhaust Gas Recirculation Throttle Control Circuit Low. This is a moderate severity code.
Common Symptoms
- Rough idle
- Increased emissions
- Reduced engine performance
- Engine may stumble at certain RPMs
- Check engine light on
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- EGR throttle control valve circuit shorted to ground Very High
- Faulty EGR throttle control valve High
- Corroded EGR valve connector Moderate
- Damaged wiring in EGR control circuit Moderate
- PCM EGR driver circuit failure Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Check EGR throttle control valve connector for corrosion or damage
-
Measure EGR control circuit voltage -- should not be near 0V when key is on
-
Disconnect EGR valve and test control wire for shorts to ground
-
Verify PCM is commanding the EGR valve properly with scan tool bidirectional test
-
Replace EGR throttle control valve if wiring tests good and valve is shorted internally
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with code P2141?
Yes, the vehicle is safe to drive but may have reduced performance and increased emissions. The EGR system helps control NOx emissions, and a faulty EGR throttle can cause the vehicle to fail emissions testing.
What is the EGR throttle control?
Some vehicles, particularly diesels, have a separate throttle valve in the EGR system that controls the amount of exhaust gas recirculated back into the intake. This is different from the main engine throttle body.
Is this code common on diesel engines?
Yes. The EGR throttle control circuit codes are most common on diesel engines, which rely heavily on EGR for emissions control. These valves are exposed to hot, sooty exhaust gases and tend to fail from carbon buildup and corrosion.