Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
The Throttle Actuator Control System has Detected Sudden High Air Flow
What does that mean?
This generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) typically applies to all OBD-II equipped vehicles that use a drive-by-wire throttle control system including but not limited to vehicles from Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, Volvo, Fiat, Mitsubishi, etc.
The P2172 OBD-II trouble code is one of several possible codes that indicate a malfunction in the operation of the Throttle Actuator Control System as detected by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
The PCM sets these codes when other codes are present that indicate a safety-related issue or potential damage to the engine or drivetrain components if not addressed promptly. This and related codes (P2172, P2173, P2174, and P2175) all indicate problems with detected air flow.
Code P2172 is set by the PCM when sudden high air flow is detected in the throttle actuator control system.
This code may indicate a malfunction in the Throttle Actuator Control System, although it is possible that another issue is causing this code to be set. The PCM controls the duty cycle of the Throttle Actuator Control System, and its function is limited when other fault codes are detected.
Note: In certain Dodge/Chrysler vehicles, this code may be described as “High Airflow/Vacuum Leak Detected”
Code Severity & Symptoms
The severity of this code can range from moderate to severe depending on the specific malfunction. Symptoms of a P2172 trouble code may include:
Common Causes Of This DTC Code
Potential causes of the P2172 throttle engine code may include:
P2172 Diagnostic and Repair Procedures
The first step in troubleshooting any malfunction is to research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB’s) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and power plant. In some cases, this can save a significant amount of time by providing guidance in the right direction.
For example, there is a bulletin applicable to 2013-2015 Dodge Dart and Chrysler 200 cars, bulletin number 18-006-15, which addresses this DTC and others. The recommended fix is to reprogram the PCM.
The second step for this code is to perform a PCM scan to identify any other trouble codes. This code serves as an informational code, and in most cases, its function is to alert the driver that the PCM has initiated a fail-safe mode due to a malfunction or failure in a system that is not directly related to the Throttle Control Actuator.
If other codes are identified, it is important to check for TSB’s related to the specific vehicle and that code. If a TSB has not been issued, the specific troubleshooting steps for that code should be followed to pinpoint the source of the malfunction that the PCM is detecting, which is causing the engine to enter fail-safe or limp mode.
Once all other codes have been cleared or if no other codes are detected, the PCM and Throttle Control Actuator should be evaluated. It is recommended to visually inspect all wiring and connections for any obvious defects as a starting point. Additionally, the MAP sensor circuitry should be checked.
Common Mistake
Replacing the Throttle Control Actuator or PCM when other malfunctions are causing this code to be set.
Rare Repair
Replacing the Throttle Actuator Control
We hope that the information provided in this article has been helpful in guiding you towards resolving the issue with your Throttle Actuator Control System. However, please note that this article is strictly informational, and the specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle should always take precedence.
