The P2119: Throttle Actuator Control Throttle Body Range/Performance code indicates a problem with the range or performance of the throttle actuator control in the throttle body. This issue usually arises due to a malfunction within the throttle body assembly, electrical connection issues, or problems with the throttle position sensor.
P2119 quick overview
| Meaning | P2119: Throttle Actuator Control Throttle Body Range/Performance |
| Is it serious? | Yes, this code is serious as it can affect the vehicle’s acceleration and overall engine performance. |
| Possible causes | – Faulty or dirty throttle body – Damaged throttle body motor or gears – Poor electrical connection at the throttle body – Wiring issues, such as shorts or open circuits – Faulty Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) – Issues with the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) |
| How to diagnose? | Inspect Throttle Body: Look for signs of dirt, damage, or obstruction. Check Electrical Connections: Ensure all connections to the throttle body are secure and free of corrosion. Test Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): Verify TPS operation and alignment. Examine Wiring: Look for damaged or frayed wiring near the throttle body. Load Test Power and Grounds: Perform load tests on the power and ground circuits to the throttle body. Check PCM Software: Ensure the PCM has the latest updates. Perform Throttle Relearn Procedure: If the throttle body has been cleaned or replaced, conduct a relearn procedure using a scan tool. |
P2119 Meaning
When your car shows the P2119 code, it means there’s a problem with the part that controls how much the throttle opens and closes. This part is vital for your car’s engine to get the right amount of air for smooth operation. If this code pops up, your car might not accelerate properly or could even have trouble running smoothly. It’s often caused by a dirty or damaged throttle body, bad wiring, or problems with the computer that controls the engine. It’s a serious issue and needs to be checked out to get your car running right again.
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How to fix P2119 – learn from mechanics
I looked into P2119 service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.
Case #1: Cadillac
Vehicle Information
- 2005 Cadillac STS, 4.6L engine
Issue + Repair History
- Car initially came in with the mass air flow sensor not mounted and missing gasket.
- Replaced mass air flow gasket and cleaned sensor.
- After repairs, code P2119 (idle not learned) appeared, which was not present initially.
Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results
- Initially had code PO102 (mass air flow circuit signal low).
- New code P2119 appeared after initial repair.
Suggestions from Community
- Perform idle learn procedure.
- Check the throttle body for any gumming up, and verify its position with a scan tool.
- Inspect for any broken wire to the MAF sensor.
- Suggested taking a long test drive, then clearing codes and retesting.
Final Fix
- Replaced the PCM (Powertrain Control Module), which cleared all codes and resolved the running issues.
Case #2: Chevrolet
Vehicle Information
- 2005 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS, 4.2L engine
Issue + Repair History
- Initially came in with codes PO300 (random misfire) and PO442 (EVAP system leak).
- PO442 resolved with gas cap replacement.
- PO300 persisted, showing misfires mainly in cylinders #2 and #5.
- Returned with codes PO300 and P2119 (Throttle Closed Position Performance).
Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results
- PO442 – EVAP system leak (resolved with new gas cap).
- P2119 – Throttle closed position outside of range (25% not in 10.8-23.2% range).
Suggestions from Community
- Check valve timing actuator for disintegration or jamming.
- Consider replacing coils, especially on cylinders with higher misfire counts.
- Check for an intake vacuum leak.
Final Fix
- Replaced all spark plugs.
- Swapped coil assemblies between cylinders #2 and #3, and #5 and #4, which moved the misfires to the respective cylinders.
- Customer opted for replacement of all 6 coil assemblies.
- The issue was resolved, and the vehicle idles smoother.
Case #3: Dodge
Vehicle Information
- 2007 Dodge Caliber SXT, 2.0L engine
Issue + Repair History
- Problem occurred after battery replacement.
- Initial codes: P2110, P2112, P2118. Replaced dirty and hard-to-move throttle body.
- New issue: Code P2119 (Throttle Actuator Control Throttle Body Performance).
- Car was running roughly before battery installation, unknown if TBC lamp was illuminated earlier.
Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results
- P2110: Electronic Throttle Control System – Forced Limited RPM’s.
- P2112: Electronic Throttle Control System – Unable to Open Plate.
- P2118: Electronic Throttle Control Motor Current Performance.
- P2119: Throttle Actuator Control Throttle Body Performance (currently active).
Suggestions from Community
- Perform an ETC Follower test with a factory scan tool.
- Check the ETC connector for loose pins.
- Avoid manually moving the throttle flap.
- Consider issues with PCM connectors or spread terminals.
- Check for proper terminal connections at throttle body and PCM.
Final Fix
- Replaced the throttle body with an OE part.
- Disconnected PCM connectors, which resolved the P2119 code issue.
- Vehicle fixed after addressing throttle body and PCM connector issues.
Case #4: Ford
Vehicle Information
- 2010 Ford Fusion SEL, 2.5L engine
Issue + Repair History
- Codes P2112 and P2119, indicating throttle body issues.
- Extremely intermittent problem, sometimes not occurring for weeks.
- Five throttle bodies have been replaced on the car.
- Vehicle also examined by a dealer.
Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results
- P2112: TAC stuck closed.
- P2119: TAC range performance.
- TPS (Throttle Position Sensor): Good.
- APP (Accelerator Pedal Position): Good.
- Wiring: Good.
Suggestions from Community
- Disable the alternator to check for RFI (Radio Frequency Interference) issues.
- Check Coil-On-Plug (COP) assemblies for loose boots/cracked plugs that could generate RFI.
- Perform load tests and voltage drop tests from ETB (Electronic Throttle Body) connector to PCM.
- Wiggle harness test from ETB to PCM with a headlamp bulb wired as a load.
- Check pin fit at ETB connector.
- Utilize IDS scan tool for specific ETB test.
- Ensure PCM is at the latest calibration.
- Try the relearn procedure.
- Check pin tension and look for small vacuum leaks behind the throttle assembly.
Final Fix
- Tightened all pins at throttle body and computer.
- Since then, no more reported problems.
Case #5: GMC
Vehicle Information
- 2005 GMC Envoy SLE, 4.2L engine
Issue + Repair History
- Vehicle was towed in, customer reported it cut off while driving.
- On start-up, the vehicle would catch for a second and then die again.
- Diagnostic trouble codes: P2135, P2119, P2101, P1516.
- Suspected issues with the throttle body.
- Symptoms resembled an active anti-theft system, but no relevant codes were found in the ECM or BCM.
Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results
- P2135: TPS 1-2 Correlation
- P2119: Throttle Closed Position Performance
- P2101: Throttle Actuator Position Performance
- P1516: Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) Module Throttle Actuator Position Performance
Suggestions from Community
- Clean the throttle body with approved cleaner.
- Check the signal at the throttle body sensor and the mass airflow sensor.
- Consider possible issues with the PCM.
- Examine wiring close to the throttle body connector for loose terminals or breaks.
Final Fix
- Throttle body was cleaned initially, but codes persisted.
- Replaced the throttle body following a flow chart for code P2135.
- Ensured the 5V signal was present on specific cavities of the throttle body connector.
- Vehicle started successfully after throttle body replacement.
How to diagnose P2119
I made you an overview of solving this DTC, based on all the advice that was suggested by certified mechanics to address this issue in previously mentioned service cases.
| Advice | Description of Diagnostic Step |
|---|---|
| Check Throttle Body | Examine the throttle body for cleanliness, damage, or obstruction. Consider cleaning or replacing if necessary. |
| Inspect Electrical Connections | Verify the integrity of electrical connections, particularly at the throttle body and PCM. Look for loose or corroded connectors. |
| Perform Throttle Relearn Procedure | After cleaning or replacing the throttle body, conduct a throttle relearn procedure using a suitable scan tool. |
| Check Wiring Integrity | Examine the wiring, especially near the throttle body, for breaks or shorts in the insulation. |
| Load Test Power and Grounds | Perform load tests on power and ground circuits to the throttle body and PCM to ensure they can handle required current. |
| Verify Software Updates | Ensure the PCM has the latest software updates, as outdated software can cause issues with throttle body performance. |
| Assess Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) | Check the TPS for proper operation and alignment. Consider replacing if faulty. |
| Investigate PCM | If all other checks are inconclusive, consider the possibility of a PCM issue. |
| Examine Other Related Sensors | Check related sensors such as the mass airflow sensor and verify their proper functioning. |
Car Diagnostics Training
- Car Electrical basics
- OBD-II scanner basics
- How to use an OBD reader
- Introduction to a Bi-directional Scan tool
- OBD scanner buyer’s guide + discounts
I test OBD-II scanners and make DIY Engine diagnostics guides to help you solve your car problems without having to depend on the mechanic. A lot of them will try to scam you or are just no help at all. About Juraj Lukacko