AutoCodesToyota – P2118 2001 Toyota Highlander

P2118 2001 Toyota Highlander Code - Throttle Actuator Control Motor Current Range/Performance

Quick Answer

The Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) has a dedicated power supply circuit. Common causes include Faulty Throttle Actuator Control Actuator, Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) harness is open or shorted, Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) 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
P2118 2001 Toyota Highlander indicates Throttle Actuator Control Motor Current Range/Performance.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Throttle Actuator Control Actuator, Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) harness is open or shorted, Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) 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 3,262
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P2118 2001 Toyota Highlander Description

The Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) has a dedicated power supply circuit. The voltage (+BM) is monitored and when the voltage is low (less than 4 V), the Engine Control Module (ECM) concludes that the ETCS has a fault and current to the throttle actuator is cut. When the voltage becomes unstable, the ETCS itself becomes unstable. For this reason, when the voltage is low, the current to the actuator is cut. If repairs are made and the system has returned to normal, turn the ignition switch OFF. The ECM then allows current to flow to the actuator and actuator can be restarted.
OBDII Code P2118 2001 Toyota Highlander - Throttle Actuator Control Motor Current Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com
P2118 2001 Toyota Highlander Code - Throttle Actuator Control Motor Current Range/Performance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2118 2001 Toyota Highlander?

  • Faulty Throttle Actuator Control Actuator
  • Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) harness is open or shorted
  • Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS) circuit poor electrical connection
  • ECM

How to Fix the DTC P2118 2001 Toyota Highlander?

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 P2118 2001 Toyota Highlander 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 P2118 2001 Toyota Highlander code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2118 2001 Toyota Highlander code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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.

Frequently Asked Questions about P2118 2001 Toyota Highlander Code

1. What does OBDII code P2118 mean on a 2001 Toyota Highlander?

P2118 indicates an issue with the Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) motor, specifically a problem with its current range or performance.

2. What are the common symptoms of P2118 in a 2001 Toyota Highlander?

Symptoms may include reduced engine power, the throttle not responding, a check engine light, and potentially the vehicle going into "limp mode."

3. What causes the P2118 code to appear on a 2001 Toyota Highlander?

Common causes include a faulty throttle actuator motor, wiring or connector issues, a failing throttle body assembly, or a problem with the engine control module (ECM).

4. Can I drive my 2001 Toyota Highlander with a P2118 code?

Driving with code P2118 is not recommended, as it can lead to reduced throttle response or unsafe driving conditions due to limited power.

5. How do I diagnose the P2118 code on a 2001 Toyota Highlander?

Start by checking the throttle body and its wiring for damage or corrosion, test the throttle actuator motor, and inspect the ECM for faults.

6. How do I fix the P2118 code on a 2001 Toyota Highlander?

Repairs may include replacing the throttle body, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or in rare cases, reprogramming or replacing the ECM.

7. Can a dirty throttle body cause the P2118 code?

Yes, a dirty or clogged throttle body can restrict movement and lead to P2118 being triggered.

8. What tools do I need to troubleshoot the P2118 code on a 2001 Toyota Highlander?

You’ll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter to check electrical connections, and potentially tools to remove and clean the throttle body.

9. How much does it cost to fix a P2118 code on a 2001 Toyota Highlander?

Costs vary depending on the root cause, but throttle body replacement typically ranges from $300 to $600, including parts and labor.

10. Can disconnecting the battery clear the P2118 code on a 2001 Toyota Highlander?

Disconnecting the battery may temporarily clear the code, but the issue will return if the underlying problem isn’t resolved.

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