FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
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P2101






P2101-ELECTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROL MOTOR PERFORMANCE - BANK 1





For a complete wiring diagram, refer to the Wiring Information.

Theory of operation

The Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) motor is controlled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The DC motor located in the throttle body drives the throttle blade. In order to decrease idle speed, along with spark and fuel delivery changes the PCM commands the throttle closed reducing air flow into the engine and the idle speed decreases. In order to increase idle speed, the PCM commands the throttle plate open allowing more air to pass the throttle plate.

- When Monitored:
With the engine running, ETC motor not in limp home mode, and TPS adaptation complete.

- Set Condition:
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) recognizes too large of an error between the actual position of the Throttle Plate and the Set Point position. One trip fault and the code will set within five seconds. Three good trips to turn off the MIL ETC light is flashing.





Always perform the Pre-Diagnostic Troubleshooting procedure before proceeding. Pre-Diagnostic Troubleshooting Procedure.

1. DTC IS ACTIVE

NOTE: If this DTC sets intermittently, it is possible that the controller is overheating in extremely hot temperatures. This is considered a normal protection operation. No repair is necessary.

NOTE: Low battery voltage can cause excessive current draw in very hot and cold ambient temperatures. Make sure the battery can pass a load test before continuing. Review Freeze Frame information to determine the ambient temperature when the DTC set.

1. Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature.

WARNING: When the engine is operating, do not stand in direct line with the fan. Do not put your hands near the pulleys, belts, or fan. Do not wear loose clothing. Failure to follow these instructions can result in personal injury or death.

NOTE: Attempt to operate the vehicle under conditions similar to which the DTC was set.

NOTE: It may be necessary to test drive the vehicle within the DTC monitoring conditions in order for this DTC to set.

2. With a scan tool, select View DTCs.

Is the status Active for this DTC?

Yes

- Go to 2

No

- Perform the INTERMITTENT CONDITION diagnostic procedure. Intermittent Condition Test.

2. THROTTLE PLATE INSPECTION
1. Turn the ignition off.
2. Remove the air cleaner assembly.
3. Check for any signs of a foreign material (ice or dirt) on the throttle plate or in the throttle bore that can cause the throttle plate to stick.

Were any problems found?

Yes

- Remove the debris if possible or replace the Throttle Body Assembly. Throttle Body - Removal. Disconnect the Battery when replacing the Throttle Body Assembly. After installation is complete, use a scan tool and select the ETC RELEARN function.
- Perform the POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST. Powertrain Verification Test.

No

- Go To 3

3. THROTTLE PLATE NOT WITHIN DESIRED POSITION
1. Start the engine and allow it to reach normal operating temperature.
2. With a scan tool, monitor the Actual Throttle Position and Desired Throttle Position.

Is the Actual Throttle Position within 2° degrees of the Desired Throttle Position?

Yes

- Go To 4

No

- Replace the Throttle Body Assembly. Throttle Body - Removal. Disconnect the Battery when replacing the Throttle Body Assembly. After installation is complete, use a scan tool and select the ETC RELEARN function.
- Perform the POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST. Powertrain Verification Test.

4. THROTTLE BODY
1. Turn the ignition on.
2. With a scan tool, perform the Throttle Follower Test and observe the movement of the throttle blade.

NOTE: It may be necessary to use a mirror to see the throttle blade.

NOTE: Make sure the motion of the throttle blade is smooth and that it opens and closes.

Does the throttle blade open and close smoothly?

Yes

- Perform the INTERMITTENT CONDITION diagnostic procedure. Intermittent Condition Test.

No

- Remove the debris if possible or replace the Throttle Body Assembly. Throttle Body - Removal. Disconnect the Battery when replacing the Throttle Body Assembly. After installation is complete, use a scan tool and select the ETC RELEARN function.
- Perform the POWERTRAIN VERIFICATION TEST. Powertrain Verification Test.