Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
Throttle Input Not Present in Auto Configuration
What does that signify?
This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that is applicable to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer), including Nissan, Toyota, Mazda, Hyundai, Kia, and others. Although it is a generic code, the specific repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration of the vehicle.
If your OBD-II equipped vehicle has stored a code P063E, it means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has not detected a signal for the auto configuration throttle input.
When the ignition cylinder is turned to the ON position and the various on-board controllers (including the PCM) are powered, multiple self-tests are initiated. The PCM relies on input signals from engine sensors to automatically configure an engine start-up strategy and perform these self-tests. Throttle position is one of the key input signals required by the PCM for auto configuration.
The throttle position sensor (TPS) should provide the PCM (and other controllers) with a throttle input signal for automatic configuration purposes. The TPS is a sensor with variable resistance that is mounted on the throttle body assembly. The tip of the throttle plate shaft is inserted into the TPS. As the throttle plate shaft moves (either through the accelerator cable or drive-by-wire system), it also moves a potentiometer inside the TPS, causing a change in circuit resistance. This results in a change in the TPS signal circuit voltage sent to the PCM.
If the PCM fails to detect a throttle position input circuit when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position and the PCM is powered, a code P063E will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp may illuminate. The auto configuration system may also be deactivated, leading to serious drivability issues.
A typical throttle body:
What is the severity of this DTC?
Auto configuration codes should be taken seriously as they can affect engine start-up idle quality and drivability. Classify a stored code P063E as severe and address it accordingly.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P063E trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Possible causes for this code may include:
What are some P063E troubleshooting steps?
If there are any other TPS related codes present, diagnose and repair those before attempting to diagnose the P063E.
To accurately diagnose a code P063E, you will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and reliable vehicle information.
Refer to your vehicle information source for applicable technical service bulletins (TSB). If you find a TSB that matches the vehicle, symptoms, and codes you are dealing with, it may help in reaching a correct diagnosis.
When diagnosing any code, start by connecting the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port and retrieving all stored codes and relevant freeze frame data. It is recommended to write down or print this information in case it is needed later after clearing the codes. Next, clear the codes and test drive the vehicle until one of two scenarios occurs:
A. The code fails to reset and the PCM enters readiness mode
B. The code is reset
If scenario A occurs, you are dealing with an intermittent code and the conditions that caused it may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made.
If scenario B occurs, continue with the steps listed below.
Step 1
Perform a visual inspection of all related wiring and connectors. Check PCM power supply fuses and relays. Make any necessary repairs. If no problems are found, proceed to the next step.
Step 2
Obtain diagnostic flow charts, wiring diagrams, connector face views, connector pin-out charts, and component testing specifications/procedures from your vehicle information source.
Once you have the correct information, use the DVOM to test TPS voltage, ground, and signal circuits.
Step 3
Start with a simple test of voltage and ground signals at the TPS connector. If there is no voltage, use the DVOM to trace the circuit back to the appropriate terminal of the PCM connector. If there is no voltage on this pin, suspect that the PCM is defective. If there is voltage at the PCM connector pin, repair the open circuit between the PCM and the TPS. If there is no ground, trace the circuit back to the central ground location and make repairs as needed. If ground and voltage are present at the TPS connector, proceed to the next step.
Step 4
Although TPS data can be accessed through the scanner data stream, it is more accurate to gather live data from the TPS signal circuit using the DVOM. An oscilloscope can also be used for testing the TPS signal circuit, but it is not necessary.
Connect the positive test lead of the DVOM to the TPS signal circuit (with the TPS connector plugged in and the key off). Connect the negative test lead of the DVOM to the battery or chassis ground.
Observe the TPS signal voltage while gradually opening and closing the throttle.
If any glitches or voltage spikes are detected, suspect that the TPS is defective. TPS signal voltage normally ranges between 0.5 volts at idle to 4.5 volts at wide open throttle.
If the TPS and all system circuits are functional, suspect a defective PCM or a PCM programming error.
