A P2119 code is a throttle actuator control throttle body range performance code. It means the throttle body plate is not in the position the computer expects it to be.
This code can show up on Ford, Dodge, Chevy, Toyota, Nissan, Kia, and more.
What Is a P2119 Code?
The throttle body controls all the air going into the engine. A plate inside opens as the gas pedal is pressed, allowing more or less air into the engine.
Older throttle bodies used a cable that ran from the gas pedal to the throttle body.
Most newer vehicles use an electronic throttle control system where the computer controls how open the plate is.
The gas pedal has a sensor on it. As the pedal is pressed, it reports this information to a computer.
This can be a dedicated throttle actuator control module, or it can be controlled by the engine control module (ECM) or powertrain control module (PCM). It varies by vehicle.
A small motor is built into the throttle body. The computer controls the voltage to that motor to open or close the plate.
A throttle position sensor reports back to the computer if the plate is opening up. When you get a P2119 code, the computer sees a problem with the plate opening that puts it outside the right position.
The definition for this code is that the throttle valve opening angle continues to vary greatly from the target opening angle.
What Causes a P2119 Code?
- Dirty or bad throttle body
- Bad throttle actuator control module or bad ECM/PCM
- Bad throttle position sensor
- Bad pedal position sensor
- Wiring problem (open, short, blown fuse, bad connection)
How To Diagnose a P2119 Code
If you’re working on a vehicle with a P2119 code, be sure to get a diagram for that specific vehicle. There can be differences inside these systems.
Dirty or Bad Throttle Body
It is very common for throttle bodies to get dirty and build up deposits. If they get a lot of buildup on them, that can throw everything off.
It can throw off the sensors and the computer’s readings. If your throttle body looks really dirty, get some throttle body air intake cleaner and spray inside to clean it up.
There are good videos on how to do this. Quite often that solves a lot of issues.
The throttle body might have also gone bad and need to be replaced. The small motor built into it might have burnt out.
There can also be gears and other parts inside that can fail. Keep in mind that some vehicle computers need what’s called a throttle relearn procedure when the throttle body is replaced.
Sometimes when you clean up a really dirty throttle body, it can also need a throttle relearn procedure. The computer learns the small variances built into the new or cleaned throttle body.
How the throttle relearn procedure is done varies. It depends on the vehicle, the year, the make, the model.
Quite often you can just let the vehicle run for a little bit, even drive it around, and the computer automatically relearns.
Bad Computer
The next thing that could cause this is a bad throttle actuator control module or a bad ECM or bad PCM. Whichever computer is controlling that little DC motor built into the throttle body.
This is not going to be too common. Usually when there is a problem with the computer, you’re going to get a lot of other codes.
If you do think you have a bad computer, be sure that the battery is good. You could even check the alternator output and be sure that’s good.
All these computers need a good stable power supply or that can cause problems. But it is kind of rare for a computer to go bad.
Bad Throttle Position Sensor or Pedal Position Sensor
If one of these sensors goes bad, that can throw everything off and cause a P2119 code. Usually if that happens, you’ll be getting another code.
For example, say the pedal position sensor is having a problem. Usually you’ll get another code for that, like a P1121 accelerator pedal position sensor range performance problem.
If you get this code, it’s a good idea to do some tests and be sure that pedal position sensor is working correctly.
Wiring Problem
The last thing on the list is some kind of wiring problem. This is going to be something like an open, a short, a blown fuse, or a bad connection.
It’s a good idea to check for any blown fuses. Anything labeled like ETCS, ECM, throttle control, or anything along those lines.
Which fuse is controlling the throttle actuator control system is going to vary. It depends on the year of the vehicle, the make, and the model.
How To Fix a P2119 Code
Start by checking if the throttle body is dirty. If it is, clean it with throttle body air intake cleaner.
If cleaning doesn’t solve the problem, check for blown fuses related to the throttle control system. Check all wiring connections for damage or corrosion.
If those checks come up clean, you may need to test the throttle position sensor and pedal position sensor. If you’re getting additional codes related to these sensors, that can point you in the right direction.
If the throttle body itself is bad, it will need to be replaced. Once replaced or thoroughly cleaned, the computer may need a throttle relearn procedure.
Summary
A P2119 code means the throttle body plate is not in the position the computer expects. The most common cause is a dirty throttle body.
Cleaning the throttle body with throttle body cleaner often solves the issue. If cleaning doesn’t work, check for blown fuses and wiring problems.
Bad throttle position sensors or pedal position sensors can also cause this code. Usually you’ll get additional codes if one of these sensors is failing.
If the throttle body is bad, it will need to be replaced. Keep in mind that some vehicles need a throttle relearn procedure after replacing or cleaning the throttle body.
Bad computers are less common. If you suspect a computer issue, make sure the battery and alternator are providing good stable power first.
Be sure to get a diagram for your specific vehicle. There can be differences in how these electronic throttle control systems work between different years, makes, and models.
Have you had an issue with a P2119 code? Let us know your fix or problem below.