Code
P1109
OLDSMOBILE
P — Powertrain
Secondary Port Throttle System
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Carbon or debris blocking secondary port or linkage
- Sticking or seized secondary throttle valve/plate
- Faulty secondary throttle actuator (solenoid/motor/servo)
- Damaged wiring, poor connector contacts, or short to power/ground in circuit
- Faulty throttle position sensor (TPS) or secondary position sensor
- Vacuum line leaks or failed vacuum solenoid (if vacuum-operated)
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light (MIL) illuminated
- Reduced engine performance or 'limp' mode
- Hesitation or poor throttle response when accelerating
- Unstable or high idle, stalling at idle
- No change in secondary port operation when commanded (scan tool tests)
What to check
- Read and record all stored/active freeze-frame data and pending codes with a capable scan tool
- Check for related codes (TPS, actuator, MAP/MASS) and note freeze-frame RPM/load/temperature
- Visually inspect throttle body and secondary port area for carbon, deposits, or foreign objects
- Inspect wiring and connectors for the secondary actuator and position sensor — look for corrosion, loose pins, or damaged insulation
- Backprobe and monitor relevant PIDs (TPS, secondary position, requested position, actuator current) while commanding changes with a scan tool
- Perform a wiggle test on harness while monitoring PIDs for intermittent faults
Signal parameters
- Primary TPS closed-throttle voltage typically ~0.2–1.0 V; wide-open throttle ~4.0–4.8 V (values vary by vehicle)
- Secondary throttle/port position PID should follow 'Requested Secondary Position' within about 5–10% or a few degrees
- Throttle actuator current/pulse duty: normally low at steady positions; may show brief peaks during movement (expected peak varies by design, verify with manufacturer specs)
- MAP or intake vacuum should fall (pressure rises) when throttle opens — confirm expected change with accelerator input
- No large voltage drops or intermittent supply voltage (should see stable 12 V supply and good ground at actuator/solenoid)
Diagnostic algorithm
- Step 1 — Confirm code and freeze-frame: read P1109 and any related codes; note conditions when code set (engine temp, RPM, load).
- Step 2 — Visual and basic electrical checks: inspect throttle body, secondary port and linkage for carbon or obstruction; inspect harness/connectors for damage or corrosion. Repair obvious issues and clear codes to retest.
- Step 3 — Scan tool PID verification: monitor TPS, secondary position, requested secondary position, throttle actuator current/command while commanding secondary port open/close using bi-directional controls. Verify the actual follows the request.
- Step 4 — Power and ground tests: with key on, engine off, verify supply voltage and ground at the actuator/solenoid connector; check continuity to PCM. Repair wiring faults.
- Step 5 — Functional tests: with the engine cold/warm as specified, command the secondary port actuator while observing physical movement. If no movement despite correct commands and voltages, suspect actuator mechanical failure. If actuator moves but position PID shows incorrect correlation, suspect sensor or calibration issue.
- Step 6 — Vacuum/solenoid test (if applicable): apply vacuum or energize solenoid and confirm port/valve movement; replace failed vacuum components.
- Step 7 — Clean or replace: if port/plate is stuck from carbon, remove and clean throttle body/secondary port assembly and retest. If actuator or sensor fails bench or in-vehicle tests, replace the defective component.
- Step 8 — Relearn and verify: after repair, clear codes, perform any required throttle/idle relearn procedure per service manual, then road-test to ensure no return of the code.
- Step 9 — If problem persists: check PCM inputs/outputs and consider software updates or PCM replacement only after all other components test good.
Likely causes
- Carbon buildup or mechanical sticking of the secondary port/throttle plate
- Failed or weak secondary throttle actuator (electrical or vacuum)
- Wiring connector corrosion, broken wires, or intermittent connection at actuator/sensor
- TPS/position sensor out of range or poor correlation with commanded position
Fault status
Status
Secondary port throttle system malfunction detected — the secondary intake/throttle port is not operating as commanded or its control/sensor circuit is out of expected range. Inspection of the throttle body, actuator, sensors and wiring is required.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 1.0-2.5 hours
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