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When you press the accelerator pedal on your vehicle, the amount that you press the pedal opens up the throttle a certain amount. In order to make sure you’re getting the amount of power that you’re expecting, the powertrain control module (PCM) monitors where the throttle is and what it would expect the throttle to be at any given time. If the PCM is expecting the throttle to be in a specific place and it’s in a different one, then it will set this code.
More About the P2119 Code
The actual process that uses the drive-by-wire throttle control system, which are systems that use this code, is very complex. The input data from the throttle position sensor activates a specific motor, which then opens and closes the throttle plate. This is done by changing the voltage that connects to the throttle plate motor. Because this process is so complex, there are many locations where the process might fail, and all of them will likely send the same code.
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Depending on the specific malfunction you’re experiencing, the severity of this code can range dramatically. You may start with the check engine light illuminated and generally poor performance, but not poor enough to really notice the problems. However, for more severe problems, which can also include a more moderate problem that you didn’t manage quickly enough, the throttle response can be poor, up to and including a limp mode or a no-start condition.
The causes of this code can also vary depending on your malfunction. The throttle body, throttle position sensor, accelerator pedal position sensor, or throttle actuator control motor could be defective, or any mix of them could be. You could also have issues with corroded, faulty, or damaged connectors and wiring, as well as a dirty throttle plate or throttle plate linkage. Finally, although rare, your PCM may also be faulty.
This is generally a fairly serious code. Your throttle is what ensures that your vehicle behaves as you intend it to; if you have an issue with it, you could be unable to drive, or worse, you could have safety issues as you drive. Even if you’re not experiencing extremely serious drivability problems yet, you should still expect that this code is very serious and that you should fix it as soon as possible.
An expert will not suggest driving with the P2119 code. Even if you’re not currently noticing any symptoms, you’re more likely to start seeing symptoms the longer you drive with this code, and these symptoms could set in randomly as you’re on the road. If you’re seeing this code, then you should get to an expert as soon as possible. You never want to drive with a potential safety concern within your vehicle, and that’s what the P2119 could easily turn into.
Diagnosing the P2119 code is often very complicated. There are many possible places where the process could have failed, and the problem could be in just one of these places or in multiple places. You need specific technical references for the exact vehicle make and model that you’re using, as well as tools like a digital multimeter. If you’re not an expert, diagnosing this code could be extremely difficult.
The inspection process for the P2119 code is often very difficult as well. You’ll need to check motors, voltage, wiring, and more, as well as take note of any technical service bulletins (TSBs) that may be applicable to your specific vehicle. If you’re not extremely knowledgeable about how your vehicle looks when there’s nothing wrong, then it’s best to take it to an expert who will have that knowledge.
Because there are many potential reasons that your vehicle may be sending you the P2119 code, it’s important that you get help from an expert if you’re experiencing issues with this code. An expert will be able to understand the reason for the code and give you more insight into other issues that might be happening within your vehicle.
Start your journey to a healthier vehicle by using Kelley to find a repair shop in your area. You can find a repair shop that’s able to handle any vehicle make, model, and brand, no matter what problems you’re experiencing.
Additionally, if you’re seeing multiple codes, which is common, it’s a good idea to check out the KBB OBD-II database. This can help you at least understand the codes, even if you’re not planning to try and solve all of them yourself.
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