Home / DTC / P2118 — Throttle actuator motor current

P2118 — Throttle actuator motor current

Detailed page for trouble code P2118.

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Code

P2118

MITSUBISHI P — Powertrain

Throttle actuator motor current

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Page language: EN

Causes

  • Open, short or high-resistance wiring/connectors in throttle actuator motor circuit
  • Corroded, loose or damaged throttle body connector pins
  • Failed throttle actuator motor (internal winding short/open or brush failure)
  • Mechanical binding or obstruction in throttle plate / shaft
  • Failed throttle body assembly (integrated motor/positioner)
  • Faulty ECM or internal driver stage

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light (MIL) ON
  • Reduced engine power / limp mode
  • Poor or delayed throttle response
  • Engine may idle erratically, surge, or stall
  • Throttle stuck at open/closed position or unexpected throttle behavior
  • Inability to accelerate normally

What to check

  • Read and record freeze-frame and pending codes; note related throttle/PEDAL codes (P2100–P2119 family, P2138, etc.)
  • Verify battery voltage and charging system (engine off and cranking)
  • Visually inspect throttle body connector for corrosion, bent pins, contamination and secure fit
  • Check wiring harness for damage, chafing, pinches or repairs between ECM and throttle body
  • Use scan tool to view live data: commanded throttle angle, actual throttle position, motor current (if available), and motor status
  • Perform basic functional test: command throttle open/close via scan tool and observe operation

Signal parameters

  • Battery voltage: nominal ~12–14.5 V (should not be low during tests)
  • Idle motor current: typically low (varies by model); current increases when opening throttle — refer to service manual for exact amperage
  • Motor coil resistance: expected to be low ohms (consult specific Mitsubishi service data for exact value)
  • Throttle position feedback: commanded vs actual throttle angle should track closely; large deviation indicates actuator or control issue
  • Fault set criteria: motor current out of expected range (open/short/overcurrent) or inconsistent feedback

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Confirm code: retrieve P2118 and any related codes, record freeze-frame data. Clear codes and attempt to reproduce.
  2. Check battery and charging system: ensure proper supply voltage during testing. Low voltage can cause false faults.
  3. Visual inspection: examine throttle body connector and wiring harness for damage or corrosion. Repair as needed.
  4. Scan tool tests: monitor live data while commanding throttle open/close. Note commanded vs actual angle and any abnormal motor current readouts.
  5. Resistance check: with ignition OFF and connector disconnected, measure motor coil resistance against service values. Look for open or short condition.
  6. Power/ground check: with harness connected, measure supply voltage and ground continuity at the throttle body connector while operating. Look for voltage drops or intermittent connections.
  7. Current measurement: using a clamp meter or inline ammeter, measure motor current during actuator operation. Compare to expected behavior (should rise when motor works hard).
  8. Mechanical check: remove throttle body if needed and inspect throttle plate, shaft and return spring for binding, carbon buildup or foreign objects. Clean or repair if required.
  9. Component swap: if available, substitute a known-good throttle body assembly or actuator to confirm diagnosis.
  10. ECM check: if actuator, wiring and mechanical are verified good and fault persists, consider ECM driver fault or programming — consult dealer-level diagnostics and service bulletins before ECM replacement.
  11. After repair: clear codes and perform road test and repeated actuator operations to verify the fault does not return.

Likely causes

  • Wiring or connector fault at the throttle body (most common)
  • Failed throttle actuator motor or integrated throttle body assembly
  • Mechanical binding of throttle plate or contamination
  • Low battery/poor ground or charging system issue
  • ECM driver failure (least common)

Fault status

⚠️ Status
Throttle actuator motor current abnormal — inspect throttle body assembly, wiring/connectors, battery/ground and ECM. Fault may cause reduced power or limp-home operation.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1.0-3.0 hours

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