AutoCodes – Generic – P1160

P1160 Code - Return Spring Failure

Quick Answer

This electric motor is connected to the throttle shaft and is actuated by the engine ECM. Common causes include Check throttle body for binding, Faulty Throttle Actuator Motor, Throttle Actuator Motor harness is open or shorted. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P1160 indicates Return Spring Failure.
Common causes: Common causes include Check throttle body for binding, Faulty Throttle Actuator Motor, Throttle Actuator Motor harness is open or shorted.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 15,352

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 23, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1160 Description

This electric motor is connected to the throttle shaft and is actuated by the engine ECM. Therefore, the ECM controls engine speed and power. The engine ECM may close the throttle by a small amount to aid starting. It may also adjust throttle position for cruise control, traction control and engine speed limiting. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set when the ECM detects the throttle position is not within the desired range.

OBDII Code P1160 - Return Spring Failure - AutoCodes.com — P1160 Code - Return Spring Failure

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1160?

Check throttle body for binding
Faulty Throttle Actuator Motor
Throttle Actuator Motor harness is open or shorted
Throttle Actuator Motor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P1160?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1160 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P1160 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1160 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P1160 Audi — Intake Air Temperature Sensor Short To Ground
P1160 BMW — Fuel Trim Adaptation Additive Low Bank 2
P1160 Buick — O2 Reference Voltage Circuit High Voltage (NOx Sensor 1)
P1160 Cadillac — O2 Reference Voltage Circuit High Voltage (NOx Sensor 1)
P1160 Chevrolet — O2 Reference Voltage Circuit High Voltage (NOx Sensor 1)
P1160 Chrysler — Ignition Voltage
P1160 Dodge — Ignition Voltage
P1160 GMC — O2 Reference Voltage Circuit High Voltage (NOx Sensor 1)
P1160 Jeep — Ignition Voltage
P1160 MINI — Fuel Trim Adaptation Additive Low Bank 2
P1160 Subaru — Return Spring Failure
P1160 Volkswagen — Intake Air Temperature Sensor Short To Ground

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.