What Is the P2104 Code?
Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
Get Additional Help
The P2104 error code indicates issues within the throttle actuator control system (or TAC) in a vehicle and as such should be considered as a moderate to a serious issue that could impact driver safety.
This generic code applies to the following vehicles (as well as some others):
- Ford
- GM
- Dodge
- Chevy
- Subaru
- Toyota
More About Error Code P2104
The P2104 error code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a major internal failure within the throttle actuator. This code activates when throttle control issues warrant forcing the TAC system to remain at an idle and is a part of a car’s fail-safe or ‘limp’ mode. When in this state, a vehicle will be unable to accelerate and will remain in an idle state.
A P2104 code is a generic code that is connected to the P2110, P2105, and P2106 codes. These codes may flag in conjunction with each other depending on the specific issues within the engine.
Who Has the Lowest Price?
Some service centers will give you an online estimate to compare. Why drive around Town!?
What Are the Symptoms of a P2104 Code?
The symptoms of a P2104 code are very recognizable as they have a serious impact on the drivability of the affected vehicle. These symptoms are:
- Failure to start
- Limited or no throttle response
- Lack of shifting ability
- ABS light illuminated
In many cases, diagnostic activity will reveal other connected codes that indicate widespread damage to the TAC system. In these cases, all error codes should be treated as potentially connected.
What Are Some Causes of a P2104 Code?
Several issues can contribute to the activation of a P2104 code and the forced idling of a car. These causes include but are not limited to:
- Faults in the TAC, ECM, or PCM systems
- Engine overheating
- Damaged or leaking coolant system
- Mass air flow sensor damage or malfunction
- ABS failures
- Traction or stability control failures
- Abnormal system voltage levels
- Automatic transmission damage or faults
Of course, your car will also engage the check engine light when a fault like this occurs.
How Serious Is the P2104 Code?
A car experiencing P2104 activation faces serious risks to its drivability, as the most common outcome is engine failure. While the issue may begin with poor or limited acceleration, it can quickly lead to a car becoming entirely undrivable.
Can I Still Drive with a P2104 Code?
It may be possible to drive a car flagging a P2104 code a short distance at first, but this code is connected with the forced shutdown of an engine and the inability to accelerate. As such, it is not only inadvisable to drive long distances, it may be impossible depending upon how progressed the issue is.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P2104 Code?
Due to the unique and highly visible nature of the symptoms associated with a P2014 code, namely the inability to move from an idle position, it is generally easy to diagnose a P2014 code. However, identifying the underlying issues can be a little more complex.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P2104 Code?
While identifying the reason that a P2104 code has been activated is fairly easy, diagnosing and inspecting the contributing factors and issues can be a little more complex. This is because of the high likelihood that there are multiple points of damage within the TAC system and the chance that other error codes will have been activated. The most common mistakes include clearing the ECM memory codes before assessing the issues and failing to diagnose other activated codes before dealing with the P2104 code itself.
A professional should instead scan and document the codes in the ECM and check freeze-frame data for failures, diagnose all active codes, and then check the TAC system, throttle, and throttle position sensors to identify all potentially contributing issues. Once repairs are complete, the ECM memory codes should then be cleared.
We do not recommend that you attempt to inspect or repair a damaged or faulty TAC system by yourself. The complexity of the underlying issues and the possibility of multiple error codes being engaged makes this a challenging process. Your best bet is to use the Kelley Blue Book (KBB) service center locator tool to identify a reputable auto repair center in your local area.
Need Additional Help with Your P2104 Code?
OBD-II codes contain useful information that indicate the condition of a vehicle and risk factors. Understanding them can empower drivers to make informed decisions about their cars. If you want to know more about diagnostic error codes that your car is showing, the KBB OBD-II database contains information about all currently used codes, their meanings, and the risk factors associated with them.
P2104 Q&A
Common Error Codes
Browse All OBD-II Codes
Get Recall Alerts
All recalls are considered serious. Stay safe. Take care of any recalls ASAP. The good news? Recall repairs are free when performed at a local dealer.