Powertrain, generic (extended)

P2118 Throttle Actuator A Control Motor Current Range/Performance

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

P2118 looks at how much current throttle motor A needs. A healthy throttle moves with modest current; a high or abnormal draw means the motor is fighting resistance. Ford lists P2118 with MIL and wrench lamp in its 2020-2023 summary (2024: P2100 byte 1D). The best-known trigger is a frozen throttle plate: Kia's 2022-2023 Carnival 3.5L bulletin describes limp-home mode after a cold soak and a revised ECM logic, Ram 1500 3.6L trucks get a de-icing kit (P2072, P2110, P2118), and Hyundai changed its hybrid ECM logic for what it calls ETC target position failure. Unlike P2101 (position error) or P2119 (spring return), this code points at the load on the motor. Bank B is P211C.

Likely causes

Ice on the throttle plate after a cold soak
Carbon or sludge loading the motor
Worn throttle motor or gear train
ECM logic too sensitive (software update available)

Symptoms

  • Limp-home mode after a cold start
  • Engine warning lamp on
  • No start or poor idle in frost

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumDIY possible
Parts and labour€0–700
Time0.5–2.5 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

throttle actuator motorthrottle body

Related codes

P2101P2119P2072P2110P211CP2100

References: fordservicecontent.com, static.nhtsa.gov, static.nhtsa.gov, static.nhtsa.gov.