AutoCodes – Ford – P2104 Ford

P2104 Ford Code - Throttle Actuator Control System Forced Idle

Quick Answer

The electronic Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) is a DC motor controlled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Common causes include Faulty Throttle Actuator Control (TAC), Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) harness is open or shorted, Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) 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
P2104 Ford indicates Throttle Actuator Control System Forced Idle.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Throttle Actuator Control (TAC), Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) harness is open or shorted, Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 73,089
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P2104 Ford Description

The electronic Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) is a DC motor controlled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). There are 2 designs for the TAC, parallel and inline. The parallel design has the motor under the bore parallel to the plate shaft. The motor housing is integrated into the main housing. The inline design has a separate motor housing. An internal spring is used in both designs to return the throttle plate to a default position. The default position is typically a throttle angle of 7 to 8 degrees from the hard stop angle. The closed throttle plate hard stop prevents the throttle from binding in the bore. This hard stop setting is not adjustable and is set to result in less airflow than the minimum engine airflow required at idle. The P2104 code is set when the Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) system is in the Failure Mode Effects Management (FMEM) mode of forced idle.
OBDII Code P2104 Ford - Throttle Actuator Control System Forced Idle - AutoCodes.com
P2104 Ford Code - Throttle Actuator Control System Forced Idle

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2104 Ford?

  • Faulty Throttle Actuator Control (TAC)
  • Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) harness is open or shorted
  • Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P2104 Ford?

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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P2104 Ford 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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Information for Specific Ford Models

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 P2104 Ford Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P2104 in a Ford vehicle?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P2104 in a Ford vehicle include the engine stalling, reduced power and acceleration, rough idling, and the vehicle going into a forced idle mode.

2. What does the OBDII code P2104 in a Ford mean?

OBDII code P2104 in a Ford indicates a problem with the Throttle Actuator Control System, specifically that the system is forcing the vehicle into an idle state.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P2104 in a Ford?

Possible causes of OBDII code P2104 in a Ford include a faulty throttle body, issues with the throttle position sensor, a malfunctioning electronic throttle control system, or wiring/connectivity problems.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P2104 in my Ford vehicle?

Diagnosing OBDII code P2104 in a Ford typically involves using an OBDII scanner to read the code, checking the throttle body and related components for any visible damage or wear, and testing the throttle position sensor and electronic throttle control system.

5. Can I drive my Ford with OBDII code P2104?

It is not recommended to drive your Ford with OBDII code P2104, as the vehicle may experience performance issues and potentially stall while driving. It's best to address the underlying problem before continuing to drive the vehicle.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P2104 in my Ford?

Repairing OBDII code P2104 in a Ford may involve replacing the throttle body, repairing or replacing the throttle position sensor, checking and repairing any wiring/connectivity issues, or resetting the electronic throttle control system.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P2104 in a Ford?

While some experienced DIY enthusiasts may be able to address OBDII code P2104 in a Ford by following repair guides and using the necessary tools, it's recommended to seek professional help for accurate diagnosis and repair.

8. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code P2104 in a Ford?

The cost of fixing OBDII code P2104 in a Ford can vary depending on the underlying issue, the parts needed for repair, and whether you choose to do the repair yourself or take the vehicle to a mechanic. Costs may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

9. What happens if I ignore OBDII code P2104 in my Ford?

Ignoring OBDII code P2104 in a Ford can lead to further damage to the throttle control system, decreased fuel efficiency, engine performance issues, and potentially unsafe driving conditions. It's best to address the problem promptly.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code P2104 in my Ford in the future?

To prevent OBDII code P2104 in your Ford in the future, it's essential to perform regular maintenance checks, such as cleaning the throttle body, inspecting the throttle position sensor, and ensuring proper connectivity of the electronic throttle control system components.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P2104 Ford OBDII Code

  • 2104 is what part is and how do i located

  • What model?

  • When I put the TAC motor on i noticed the butterflies were slamming shut and sticking shut. You would have to really stab it by finger to get it to open up. So probably the wrong thing to do I turned the adjuster screw a little until the butterflies would quit sticking. Now I can not get the TAC out of FMEM forced Idle. I adjusted the screw back out, have double checked my spring placement. and nothing works. Replaced the EGR valve also and am getting a Low circuit reading on that as well P0405. Any suggestions?

  • Try disconnecting the car battery for about 30 minutes to reset the system and drive a few miles for the idle to reset.

    Did you disconnect the TAC when you were moving the butterflies? with the TAC connected, the TAC could act as a generator when moving the butterflies and damage other components like the PCM.

  • yes i did, after further examination the butterfly was open about 20 degrees or better even at idle. I tightened the spring in the TAC one full turn. Fixed all

  • Great!! I'm glad you solve the problem.

  • are the TAC and the throttle body motor the same thing?

  • Yes on most vehicles, what model and year is your Ford?

  • 2005 Ford F150 Lariat.

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