AutoCodes – Buick – P1511 Buick

P1511 Buick Code - Throttle Control System Backup System Performance

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 Motor, Throttle Actuator Control Motor harness is open or shorted, Throttle Actuator Control Motor 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: P1511 Buick indicates Throttle Control System Backup System Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Throttle Actuator Control Motor, Throttle Actuator Control Motor harness is open or shorted, Throttle Actuator Control Motor 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 3,564

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 Aug 26, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1511 Buick 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:
Motor control 1
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 P1511 Buick - Throttle Control System Backup System Performance - AutoCodes.com — P1511 Buick Code - Throttle Control System Backup System Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1511 Buick?

Faulty Throttle Actuator Control Motor
Throttle Actuator Control Motor harness is open or shorted
Throttle Actuator Control Motor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1511 Buick?

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 P1511 Buick 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.

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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.