Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) information
Condition
To check that the engine control system reacts as intended, the Engine control module (ECM) monitors continuously that requested torque from the engine does not become too high. To do this, the Engine control module (ECM) calculates a maximum allowed torque which is based on accelerator pedal angle and engine RPM. This torque is then compared with the current torque which, among other, is based on measured air mass and engine speed.
If Engine control module (ECM) registers that the current torque exceeds the maximum allowed torque for longer time than 0.3 seconds, then diagnostic trouble code ECM-981A, Too high torque, is stored.
Substitute Value
Closing of throttle during braking.
The accelerator pedal position is ignored when the brake pedal is depressed.
Cruise control off.
Cruise control off during entire operating cycle in which fault was detected. If the fault is no longer present, the function is available the next time the car is started.
Fuel cut-off that follows accelerator pedal position.
Engine speed is regulated via fuel cut-off by deactivating the injectors one at a time. The engine speed is decided by the accelerator pedal position sensor's position and the speed is maximized to approx. 2000 RPM. This reconfiguration can cause the engine to idle very unevenly since the engine control module (ECM) regulates engine speed by cutting of the fuel to the cylinders individually. Do not confuse this reconfiguration (engine behavior) with an actual driveability problem that was present before reconfiguration.
For upgraded software, released in 2006 or later, adjustments have been made to substitute values. Closing of the throttle will take place at braking and fuel shut-off, that follows the throttle, will be activated.
See Identifying upgraded software ECM/ETM
Possible Source
- something is blocking the throttle position sensor (an oil film, dust etc.)
- the software in the engine control module (ECM) is not up to date
- defective mass air flow (MAF) sensor
- defective accelerator pedal (AP) position sensor
- defective engine control module (ECM)
This diagnostic trouble code is generated in combination with other trouble codes. Information on the possible root cause is described.
For turbo engines and 6-cylinder aspirated engines:
See Information about combined diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
For 5-cyl. normally aspirated engines.
See Information about combined diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Fault symptom[s]
- the accelerator pedal (AP) is ignored when braking
- the cruise control cannot be activated
- uneven idle
- jerks during engine braking.