Code
P2118
MITSUBISHI
P — Powertrain
Throttle actuator motor current
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
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
- Confirm code: retrieve P2118 and any related codes, record freeze-frame data. Clear codes and attempt to reproduce.
- Check battery and charging system: ensure proper supply voltage during testing. Low voltage can cause false faults.
- Visual inspection: examine throttle body connector and wiring harness for damage or corrosion. Repair as needed.
- Scan tool tests: monitor live data while commanding throttle open/close. Note commanded vs actual angle and any abnormal motor current readouts.
- Resistance check: with ignition OFF and connector disconnected, measure motor coil resistance against service values. Look for open or short condition.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
- Component swap: if available, substitute a known-good throttle body assembly or actuator to confirm diagnosis.
- 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.
- 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
Similar codes
Repair manuals
Manual library for MITSUBISHI
406
Browse 406 MITSUBISHI manuals: repair procedures, diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component locations, service data and Labor Times by year, model and trim.
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