AutoCodes – Generic – P1251

P1251 Code - Throttle Motor Circuit

Quick Answer

P1251 indicates Throttle Motor Circuit. Common causes include Idling speed incorrect, A mechanical fault is preventing the throttle from closing, Faulty Throttle Motor. 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: P1251 indicates Throttle Motor Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Idling speed incorrect, A mechanical fault is preventing the throttle from closing, Faulty Throttle Motor.
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 32,007

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 22, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1251 Description

OBDII Code P1251 - Throttle Motor Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P1251 Code - Throttle Motor Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1251?

Idling speed incorrect
A mechanical fault is preventing the throttle from closing.
Faulty Throttle Motor
Throttle Motor harness is open or shorted
Throttle Motor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1251?

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 P1251 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 P1251 code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P1251 Audi — Start Of Cold Start Injector Short To Positive
P1251 Chrysler — Vacuum Reservoir Solenoid Short To Ground
P1251 Dodge — Vacuum Reservoir Solenoid Short To Ground
P1251 Jeep — Vacuum Reservoir Solenoid Short To Ground
P1251 Saab — Throttle Motor Circuit
P1251 Volkswagen — Start Of Cold Start Injector Short To Positive

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.