AutoCodes – Generic – P2172

P2172 Code - Throttle Actuator Control System - Sudden High Air Flow Detected

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) is the control center for the Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) system. Common causes include Faulty Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module, Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module harness is open or shorted, Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module circuit poor electrical connection. 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: P2172 indicates Throttle Actuator Control System - Sudden High Air Flow Detected.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module, Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module harness is open or shorted, Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module circuit poor electrical connection.
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 24,984

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 Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P2172 Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) is the control center for the Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) system. The ECM determines the drivers intent and then calculates the appropriate throttle response. The ECM achieves throttle positioning by providing a pulse width modulated voltage to the TAC motor. The TAC system uses the following circuits for Motor control 1 and Motor control 2.
Two processors are also used to monitor the TAC system data. Both processors are located within the ECM. Both processors monitor each other's data to verify that the indicated throttle position is correct.

OBDII Code P2172 - Throttle Actuator Control System - Sudden High Air Flow Detected - AutoCodes.com — P2172 Code - Throttle Actuator Control System - Sudden High Air Flow Detected

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2172?

Faulty Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module
Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module harness is open or shorted
Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module circuit poor electrical connection
Throttle plate sticking due to carbon build-up
Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P2172?

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 P2172 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 P2172 code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P2172 Chrysler — High Air Flow/ Vacuum Leak Detected Instantaneous Accumulation
P2172 Dodge — High Air Flow/ Vacuum Leak Detected Instantaneous Accumulation
P2172 Jeep — High Air Flow/ Vacuum Leak Detected Instantaneous Accumulation

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.