AutoCodesGeneric – P2174

P2174 Code - Throttle Actuator Control System - Sudden Low Air Flow Detected

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 (TAC) module, Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module harness is open or shorted, Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module 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
P2174 indicates Throttle Actuator Control System - Sudden Low Air Flow Detected.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module, Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module harness is open or shorted, Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module 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 9,125
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 P2174 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 for Motor control 1 and 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 P2174 - Throttle Actuator Control System - Sudden Low Air Flow Detected - AutoCodes.com
P2174 Code - Throttle Actuator Control System - Sudden Low Air Flow Detected

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2174?

  • Faulty Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module
  • Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module harness is open or shorted
  • Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) module circuit poor electrical connection
  • Throttle plate sticking due to carbon build-up
  • Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P2174?

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 P2174 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 P2174 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2174 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P2174 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

  • P2174 Chrysler — Low Airflow/Restriction Detected Instantaneous Accumulation
  • P2174 Dodge — Low Airflow/Restriction Detected Instantaneous Accumulation
  • P2174 Jeep — Low Airflow/Restriction Detected Instantaneous Accumulation
  • P2174 Mitsubishi — Low Airflow/Restriction Detected Instantaneous Accumulation
  • P2174 RAM — Low Airflow/Restriction Detected Instantaneous Accumulation
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 P2174 Code

What does the OBDII code P2174 mean?

The P2174 code indicates that the throttle actuator control system has detected a sudden drop in airflow, which could affect engine performance.

What are the common symptoms of code P2174?

Symptoms may include the Check Engine Light turning on, poor engine performance, stalling, reduced power, or hesitation during acceleration.

What causes the P2174 code to appear?

Common causes include a malfunctioning throttle body, a faulty throttle position sensor, a dirty or clogged air intake system, or vacuum leaks.

Can a dirty air filter trigger the P2174 code?

Yes, a dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow and potentially cause the P2174 code.

How is the P2174 code diagnosed?

A mechanic will use a scan tool to read the code, inspect the throttle body, check for vacuum leaks, and test sensors and wiring for faults.

Can I drive with the P2174 code?

It’s not recommended, as this code can lead to reduced power and stalling, which may create unsafe driving conditions.

How do I fix the P2174 code?

Common fixes include cleaning or replacing the throttle body, checking and replacing the air filter, repairing vacuum leaks, or replacing faulty sensors.

Can a bad throttle position sensor cause the P2174 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning throttle position sensor can send incorrect data to the ECU, triggering the P2174 code.

How much does it cost to repair the P2174 code?

Repair costs vary but generally range from $100 to $500, depending on the specific issue, such as cleaning the throttle body or replacing a sensor.

Will clearing the P2174 code fix the problem?

Clearing the code will reset the Check Engine Light, but the underlying issue must be addressed to prevent the code from returning.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P2174 OBDII Code

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