AutoCodes – Generic – P1191

P1191 Code - Electronic Throttle System Limp Home Valve On

Quick Answer

The Electronic Throttle System (ETS) consists of ETS unit, ETS-motor, Accelerator Position Sensor (APS),Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) and Limp home valve. Common causes include Faulty Electronic Throttle System (ETS) Motor, Faulty Electronic Throttle System (ETS), Electronic Throttle System(ETS)unit. 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: P1191 indicates Electronic Throttle System Limp Home Valve On.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Electronic Throttle System (ETS) Motor, Faulty Electronic Throttle System (ETS), Electronic Throttle System(ETS)unit.
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 28,068

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 May 17, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1191 Description

The Electronic Throttle System (ETS) consists of ETS unit, ETS-motor, Accelerator Position Sensor (APS),Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) and Limp home valve.
Among above-mentioned parts, Limp home valve is attached under the throttle body and helps air to flow from the outside through this valve to the engine combustion chamber to prevent the vehicle from engine stall when Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects ETS system malfunction.

OBDII Code P1191 - Electronic Throttle System Limp Home Valve On - AutoCodes.com — P1191 Code - Electronic Throttle System Limp Home Valve On

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1191?

Faulty Electronic Throttle System (ETS) Motor
Faulty Electronic Throttle System (ETS)
Electronic Throttle System(ETS)unit
Electronic Throttle System(ETS) harness is open or shorted
Electronic Throttle System(ETS) circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1191?

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 P1191 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 P1191 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1191 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1191 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P1191 BMW — Pre-Catalyst Fuel Trim System Bank 2
P1191 Buick — Intake Air Duct Air Leak
P1191 Cadillac — Intake Air Duct Air Leak
P1191 Chevrolet — Intake Air Duct Air Leak
P1191 Dodge — HO2S Insufficient Switching Bank 1 Sensor 1
P1191 Ford — Key Line Voltage
P1191 GMC — Intake Air Duct Air Leak
P1191 Hyundai — Electronic Throttle System Limp Home Valve On
P1191 KIA — Electronic Throttle System Limp Home Valve On
P1191 MINI — Pre-Catalyst Fuel Trim System Bank 2

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.

Frequently Asked Questions about P1191 Code

What does the OBDII code P1191 mean?

P1191 indicates an issue with the Electronic Throttle System (ETS), specifically that the Limp Home Valve has been activated, putting the vehicle in a reduced power mode.

What are the common symptoms of code P1191?

Symptoms may include reduced engine power, limited throttle response, the Check Engine Light being illuminated, and difficulty accelerating.

What causes the P1191 code to appear?

Common causes include a malfunctioning throttle body, a faulty throttle position sensor, wiring issues, or a problem with the electronic throttle control module.

Can I drive my car with the P1191 code active?

While it may be possible to drive in limp mode, it's not recommended as the vehicle's performance is limited and further damage can occur if the issue isn't resolved.

How is the P1191 code diagnosed?

A mechanic will use a scan tool to confirm the code, inspect the throttle body and sensors, check for wiring or connection issues, and test the electronic throttle control system.

What repairs can fix the P1191 code?

Repairs may include cleaning or replacing the throttle body, replacing the throttle position sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or reprogramming the electronic throttle control module.

Can a dirty throttle body cause the P1191 code?

Yes, a dirty or carbon-clogged throttle body can restrict airflow and trigger the P1191 code by causing the limp home valve to activate.

How much does it typically cost to fix the P1191 code?

Repair costs can vary, ranging from $100 for a throttle body cleaning to $500 or more for replacing components like the throttle body or sensors.

Is the P1191 code specific to certain car brands?

The P1191 code is often associated with Hyundai and Kia vehicles, but the issue can occur in other makes that use similar electronic throttle systems.

Can the P1191 code be cleared without repairs?

Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue may temporarily turn off the Check Engine Light, but the problem will likely return until properly fixed.