Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
The performance of the Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor E at its minimum stop is not meeting the required standards.
What does that mean?
This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that is applicable to OBD-II vehicles. This includes vehicles from various manufacturers such as Toyota, Subaru, Mazda, Ford, Chrysler, Dodge, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Volvo, etc. While the code is generic, the specific repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration of the vehicle.
A stored code P2116 indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a malfunction in the throttle position sensor (TPS) designated as “E” or a specific pedal position sensor (PPS).
The designation “E” refers to a particular sensor. For specific information about the vehicle in question, consult a reliable source of vehicle information. This code is only applicable to vehicles equipped with drive by wire (DBW) systems and is related to the minimum stop or closed throttle performance.
The DBW system is controlled by the PCM using a throttle actuator motor, multiple pedal position sensors (also known as accelerator pedal position sensors), and several throttle position sensors. These sensors are typically supplied with a 5-volt reference, a ground, and at least one signal wire.
In general, TPS/PPS sensors are of the potentiometer type. The contacts of the sensor are actuated by a mechanical extension on the accelerator pedal or the throttle plate shaft. As the contacts move across the sensor circuit board, the sensor resistance changes, causing variations in circuit resistance and signal input voltage to the PCM.
If the PCM detects a voltage signal from the minimum stop/closed throttle position sensor (designated as E) that does not meet the programmed parameter, a code P2116 will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may illuminate. When this code is stored, the PCM usually enters limp-in mode, which severely limits or disables engine acceleration.
A throttle position sensor (TPS):
What is the severity of this DTC?
A P2116 should be considered severe because it can render the vehicle undriveable.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P2116 trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this P2116 throttle/pedal position sensor code may include:
What are some P2116 troubleshooting steps?
Refer to your vehicle information source for technical service bulletins (TSB) that match the make, model, and engine size of the vehicle in question. The symptoms and stored codes must also align. If a matching TSB is found, it can greatly assist in the diagnosis.
For a code P2116, start the diagnosis with a visual inspection of all system-related wiring and connectors. Also, check the throttle plate for carbon buildup or damage. Excessive carbon buildup that keeps the throttle body open at startup can cause a code P2116 to be stored. Clean the carbon from the throttle body according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and repair or replace any defective wiring or components as necessary. Then, retest the DBW system.
To accurately diagnose this code, you will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable source of vehicle information.
Next, connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored trouble codes. Write them down for future reference. Also, keep any related freeze frame data. These notes can be helpful, especially if the P2116 code is intermittent. Clear the codes and test-drive the vehicle to see if the code is reset.
If the code is immediately reset, use the scanner data stream to detect voltage spikes and inconsistencies between the TPS, PPS, and the PCM. Narrow down the data stream to display only relevant data for a quicker response. If no spikes or inconsistencies are detected, use the DVOM to retrieve live data from each of the sensor signal wires. Connect the positive test lead to the appropriate signal wire and the ground test lead to the ground circuit, then observe the DVOM display while operating the DBW. Look for voltage spikes as the throttle is slowly actuated from the closed position to wide open throttle. The voltage usually ranges from 0.5 volts at closed throttle to 4.5 volts at wide open throttle, but consult your vehicle information source for exact specifications. If spikes or other irregularities are detected, suspect that the sensor being tested is defective. An oscilloscope is also a useful tool for testing sensor operation.
If the sensor is functioning as intended, disconnect any related controllers and test individual circuits with the DVOM. System wiring diagrams and connector pinout charts can help identify which circuits to test and where to find them on the vehicle. Repair or replace system circuits as necessary.
Suspect a defective PCM or a PCM programming error only if all system sensors and circuits check out.
Some manufacturers require that the throttle body, throttle actuator motor, and all throttle position sensors be replaced as a single unit.
