P2118
Throttle Actuator Control Motor Current Range/Performance
The throttle motor is drawing current that does not look normal to the computer. That usually means the motor is working too hard, the throttle body is binding, or the control circuit has an electrical problem.
- SEV
- 4/5
- DRIVE
- CAUTION
- DIY
- $20-$300
- SHOP
- $180-$900
Quick answer
AI-CITATION READYWhat it means
Can you drive with it?
Most common causes
- Failing throttle actuator motor or internal throttle body problem
- Throttle plate binding from carbon buildup or mechanical damage
- High resistance, short, or poor ground in the throttle motor circuit
Typical repair cost
DIY usually runs $20-$300. Typical shop repair lands around $180-$900, depending on the root cause.
01 / Definition
P2118 means the PCM detected throttle actuator motor current that is too high, too low, or otherwise outside the expected performance range. A sticking throttle body, failing actuator motor, harness resistance, poor grounds, or control module problems can all change current draw and trigger the code.
02 / Drive status
With caution. The vehicle may still drive but can lose throttle response or enter reduced power mode suddenly. Limit driving until the throttle actuator motor and its wiring are tested.
03 / Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Reduced power mode
- Hesitation
- Erratic throttle response
- Idle problems
04 / Causes
| 1 | Failing throttle actuator motor or internal throttle body problem | high |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Throttle plate binding from carbon buildup or mechanical damage | high |
| 3 | High resistance, short, or poor ground in the throttle motor circuit | medium |
| 4 | PCM or throttle control driver fault | medium |
05 / Diagnostic sequence
- 01Confirm P2118 and check whether the throttle enters reduced power mode consistently.
- 02Look for related throttle body, APP, TPS, and correlation codes.
- 03Inspect the throttle body for sticking, carbon buildup, or signs of overheating.
- 04Inspect the actuator motor connector, power feed, and grounds for high resistance or loose terminals.
- 05Use scan data and circuit tests to compare commanded throttle movement with actual response and motor current behavior.
06 / Repairs
| 1 | Clean the throttle body and correct any sticking or binding first | $10-$80 |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Repair throttle actuator motor wiring, poor grounds, or connector issues | $20-$150 |
| 3 | Replace the throttle body assembly if the actuator motor current remains out of range | $150-$600 |
07 / Related codes
08 / FAQ
Does P2118 mean the throttle motor is bad?
Often yes, but not always. Binding in the throttle body and wiring resistance can also change motor current enough to set the code.
Can a dirty throttle body cause P2118?
Yes. If the throttle plate sticks, the motor may draw abnormal current while trying to move it.
Why does P2118 often come with reduced power mode?
Because the PCM sees a throttle actuator fault and limits engine power to keep throttle control predictable.
09 / Source and method
- DATA BASIS
- OBD-II REFERENCE + OBD2.HELP
- METHOD
- STATIC VALIDATION
- SAFETY
- INFORMATIONAL
This page combines OBD-II diagnostic reference data with OBD2.help generated diagnostic guidance for code meaning, likely causes, and repair direction.
Publishing uses deterministic schema and build validation, plus manual spot checks on representative pages before release.
Safety-critical diagnosis and repairs should be confirmed with a qualified mechanic, especially when the vehicle is misfiring, overheating, or losing power.