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Home >> Acura >> 2003 >> MDX Base >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Engine Performance >> System >> Electronic Throttle Control System >> DTC Troubleshooting >> DTC P2101: Throttle Actuator System Malfunction
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DTC P2101: Throttle Actuator System Malfunction

NOTE: Before you troubleshoot, record all freeze data and any on-board snapshot, and review the general troubleshooting information (see GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION ).
  1. Clear the DTC with the HDS.
  2. Do the ETCS TEST in the INSPECTION MENU with the HDS.
  3. Check for Temporary DTCs or DTCs with the HDS.

    Is DTC P2101 indicated? 

    1. YES  - Go to step  6.
    2. NO  - Go to step 4.
  4. Test-drive the vehicle for several minutes in the range of these recorded freeze data parameters:
    • Engine speed
    • Vehicle speed
    • Accelerator position
  5. Check for Temporary DTCs or DTCs with the HDS.

    Is DTC P2101 indicated? 

    1. YES  - Go to step 6.
    2. NO  - Intermittent failure, system is OK at this time. Check for poor connections or loose terminals at the throttle actuator control module and at the PCM, then clean the throttle body (see THROTTLE BODY CLEANING ).
  6. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
  7. Disconnect the intake air duct from the throttle body.
  8. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
  9. Clear the DTC with the HDS.
  10. Do the ETCS TEST in the INSPECTION MENU with the HDS.
  11. Visually check the throttle valve operation.
    NOTE: Be careful not to pinch a finger during check.

    Does the throttle valve operate smoothly? 

    1. YES  - Go to step  20.
    2. NO  - Clean the throttle body (see THROTTLE BODY CLEANING ), then go to step  15 and recheck. If DTC P2101 is indicated, go to step 12.
  12. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
  13. Replace the throttle body (see THROTTLE BODY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION ).
  14. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
  15. Reset the PCM with the HDS.
  16. Do the PCM idle learn procedure (see PCM IDLE LEARN PROCEDURE ).
  17. Start the engine. Hold the engine speed at 3,000 rpm without load (in Park or neutral) until the radiator fan comes on, then let it idle.
  18. Test-drive the vehicle for several minutes in the range of these recorded freeze data parameters:
    • Engine speed
    • Vehicle speed
    • Accelerator position
  19. Check for Temporary DTCs or DTCs with the HDS.

    Are any Temporary DTCs or DTCs indicated? 

    1. YES  - If DTC P2101 is indicated, check for poor connections or loose terminals at the throttle actuator control module and at the PCM, then go to step  1. If any other Temporary DTCs or DTCs are indicated, go to the indicated DTC's troubleshooting.
    2. NO  - Troubleshooting is complete.
  20. Update the PCM if it does not have the latest software, or substitute a known-good PCM (see PCM UPDATING AND SUBSTITUTION FOR TESTING ).
  21. Do the PCM idle learn procedure (see PCM IDLE LEARN PROCEDURE ).
  22. Check for Temporary DTCs or DTCs with the HDS.

    Are any Temporary DTCs or DTCs indicated? 

    1. YES  - If DTC P2101 is indicated, check for poor connections or loose terminals at the throttle actuator control module and at the PCM, then go to step  1. If any other Temporary DTCs or DTCs are indicated, go to the indicated DTC's troubleshooting.
    2. NO  - If the PCM was updated, troubleshooting is complete. If the PCM was substituted, replace the original PCM (see PCM REPLACEMENT ).
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