P2102
Throttle Actuator A Control Motor Circuit Low
Fuel & air metering
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P2102 means the PCM detected an abnormally low voltage in the circuit that drives the electronic throttle actuator motor. Because this is the drive-by-wire motor that opens and closes the throttle, the car often drops into reduced-power or forced-idle limp mode to stay safe. The usual cause is a wiring short or a failed throttle body motor.
High
Can I keep driving? Drive as little as possible — a drive-by-wire throttle motor fault can force the engine into reduced-power or idle-only limp mode, which is unsafe in traffic.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on (often with a throttle/powertrain warning)
- Reduced power or forced-idle limp mode
- Poor or unresponsive throttle response
- Stalling or rough idle in some cases
Common causes
Most likely first
- Short-to-ground or open in the throttle actuator motor wiringLikely
- Failed throttle actuator motor inside the throttle bodyCommon
- Corroded or loose connector at the throttle bodyCommon
- Faulty PCM driving the throttle motor — less commonLess often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and inspect the throttle body connector and wiring for shorts, opens, or corrosion.
- Measure the throttle motor circuit resistance and check for a short to ground.
- Test the throttle actuator motor; clean or replace the throttle body if the motor is faulty.
- If wiring and motor are good, have the PCM evaluated. Clear, relearn the throttle, and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P2102?+
Not really. The system commands reduced power or forced idle to protect you, which can leave the car unable to accelerate normally. Have it repaired before driving in traffic.
Can I just clear P2102?+
Clearing may briefly restore power, but the fault returns and limp mode with it. The throttle motor circuit must be repaired.
Related codes
Often seen with P2102
Read & clear P2102 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX