AutoCodesToyota – P2118 2003 Toyota Highlander

P2118 2003 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 2003 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 3,171
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 2003 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 2003 Toyota Highlander - Throttle Actuator Control Motor Current Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com
P2118 2003 Toyota Highlander Code - Throttle Actuator Control Motor Current Range/Performance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2118 2003 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 2003 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 2003 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 2003 Toyota Highlander code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2118 2003 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 2003 Toyota Highlander Code

1. What does the OBDII code P2118 mean on a 2003 Toyota Highlander?

P2118 indicates a problem with the throttle actuator control motor's current range or performance, meaning the motor isn't receiving the correct electrical input to function properly.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P2118 code?

Symptoms may include reduced engine power, the vehicle going into limp mode, poor throttle response, or the Check Engine Light illuminating.

3. What causes the P2118 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty throttle actuator motor, damaged wiring or connectors in the throttle control system, issues with the electronic throttle body, or a failing engine control module (ECM).

4. Can I drive my 2003 Toyota Highlander with a P2118 code?

It is generally not recommended to drive with this code active, as it can lead to reduced performance and potentially unsafe driving conditions.

5. How do I diagnose the P2118 code?

Diagnosis involves inspecting the throttle actuator motor and its wiring, checking for damaged connectors, testing the throttle body for proper operation, and using a scan tool to monitor throttle position sensor data.

6. How is the P2118 code fixed?

Repairs may include replacing the throttle actuator control motor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, cleaning or replacing the throttle body, or reprogramming or replacing the ECM.

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

Yes, a dirty or clogged throttle body can restrict the movement of the throttle plate, leading to performance issues and triggering the P2118 code.

8. Will disconnecting the battery clear the P2118 code on a 2003 Toyota Highlander?

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

9. How much does it cost to fix a P2118 code?

Repair costs can vary widely but typically range from $150 to $1,000, depending on whether the issue is a simple wiring repair or a complete throttle body or ECM replacement.

10. Can a bad ECM cause the P2118 code?

Yes, a failing ECM can cause improper signals to the throttle actuator motor, leading to the P2118 code. However, this is less common compared to other causes like a faulty throttle body or wiring issues.

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