Fuel & air metering · Powertrain · generic (SAE-defined)
P2111: Throttle Actuator "A" Control System - Stuck Open
P2111 means the engine computer detected that the electronic throttle plate is not closing as commanded and appears stuck in a more open position.
Standard title per SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 · Updated 2026-11-07 · By CarWhere Research
How P2111 sets
The powertrain control module (PCM) commands the throttle motor to close and compares that request with throttle position sensor feedback. If the plate stays further open than commanded, the PCM sets P2111 and typically restricts power or engine speed. Detection limits vary by manufacturer.
Common causes of P2111
Roughly most likely first; the actual cause depends on the vehicle and needs testing to confirm.
- Throttle plate binding from carbon or debris
- Failed throttle return spring or worn gears
- Faulty throttle actuator motor
- Throttle position sensor giving an incorrect reading
- Wiring or connector fault in the motor circuit
- Ice in the throttle body in freezing weather
P2111 symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Reduced power or limp mode
- High or surging idle
- Engine speed not dropping when the pedal is released
How P2111 is diagnosed
- Scan all codes and freeze frame data, including any throttle position sensor codes.
- With the engine off, inspect the throttle plate and bore for buildup or obstruction.
- Check that the plate returns to its default rest position smoothly.
- Compare commanded and actual throttle angles in live data.
- Inspect wiring and the connector for damage or corrosion.
- Perform the factory throttle actuator self-test or relearn if available.
Typical fixes for P2111
- Clean the throttle body and complete a relearn
- Replace the electronic throttle body assembly
- Repair wiring or connector faults
- Remove ice or debris and protect against recurrence
Replace parts only after testing confirms the cause — a code names the circuit or condition that failed a check, not necessarily the faulty part. We don’t publish per-repair prices; for what households actually spend on upkeep, see car repair costs.
Related codes & warning lights
P2111 FAQ
What does code P2111 mean?
P2111 means the engine computer detected that the electronic throttle plate is not closing as commanded and appears stuck in a more open position. The standard definition is "Throttle Actuator "A" Control System - Stuck Open."
Can I drive with a P2111 code?
It is best to avoid driving except to get it repaired. A throttle that does not close properly can cause unexpected engine speed, and most vehicles respond by entering limp mode.
Is P2111 dangerous?
It can be, because a throttle that sticks open may hold engine speed higher than expected; the computer usually limits power to reduce that risk.
Can cold weather cause P2111?
Yes. Moisture freezing in the throttle body can keep the plate from closing, which is a known trigger in cold climates.
Keep researching
Engine guides by brand (known issues, specs)
More fuel & air metering codes
Sources
- SAE J2012 — Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (standard code titles)
- ISO 15031-6 — Road vehicles: communication between vehicle and external equipment for emissions-related diagnostics, Part 6: Diagnostic trouble code definitions
- U.S. EPA — Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs
- U.S. EPA, 40 CFR 86.1806-17 — Federal onboard diagnostics requirements for light-duty vehicles
- California Air Resources Board — On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) Program
General information written by CarWhere Research, not a diagnosis of your vehicle. Manufacturers can add their own sub-definitions and test conditions; confirm with the factory service information for your year, make and model. Before paying for a repair, check NHTSA for open recalls and your warranty booklet: federal law requires an emissions warranty on major emission-control parts such as the catalytic converter and engine computer.