REDUCED POWER
Refer to:
• Powertrain Control Module Description for the 2.8L engine
• Powertrain Control Module Description for the 3.5L engine
Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) System
Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) Overview
The throttle actuator control (TAC) system uses vehicle electronics and components to calculate and control the position of the throttle blade. This eliminates the need for a mechanical cable attachment from the accelerator pedal to the throttle body. This system also performs the cruise control functions as well.
The TAC system components include, but are not limited to the following:
• The accelerator pedal position (APP) sensors
• The throttle body
• The powertrain control module (PCM)
Each of these components interface together to ensure accurate calculations and control of the throttle position.
Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor
The accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor is mounted on the accelerator pedal assembly. The APP is 2 individual APP sensors within one housing. There are 2 separate signal, low reference, and 5-volt reference circuits. APP sensor 1 voltage increases as the accelerator pedal is depressed. APP sensor 2 voltage decreases as the accelerator pedal is depressed.
Throttle Body Assembly
The throttle body for the throttle actuator control (TAC) system is similar to a conventional throttle body with several exceptions. One exception being the use of a motor to control the throttle position instead of a mechanical cable. Another exception is the throttle position (TP) sensor. The TP sensor is mounted in the throttle body assembly. The TP sensor is 2 individual TP sensors within the throttle body assembly. Two separate signals, low reference, and 5-volt reference circuits are used to connect the TP sensors and the powertrain control module (PCM). TP sensor 2 signal voltage increases as the throttle opens. TP sensor 1 signal voltage decreases as the throttle opens.
Reduced Engine Power Mode
When the PCM detects a problem with the throttle actuator control (TAC) system the PCM enters one of the following Reduced Engine Power Modes:
• Acceleration Limiting--The control module will continue to use the accelerator pedal for throttle control, however the vehicle acceleration is limited.
• Limited Throttle Mode--The control module will continue to use the accelerator pedal for throttle control, however the maximum throttle opening is limited.
• Throttle Default Mode--The control module will turn OFF the throttle actuator.
• Forced Idle Mode--The control module will perform the following actions:
- Limit engine speed to idle by positioning throttle position, or by controlling fuel and spark if throttle is turned OFF.
- Ignore accelerator pedal input.
• Engine Shutdown Mode--The control module will disable fuel and de-energize the throttle actuator.
Have you had it checked for DTC'S - diagnostic trouble codes ?
DTC P2176
The commanded throttle position (TP) is compared to the actual TP. Both values should be within a calibrated range of each other. The powertrain control module (PCM) continuously monitors the commanded and actual TPs. If the values are greater than the calibrated range, DTC P2176 sets.
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DTC P2138
The accelerator pedal position (APP) sensors 1 and 2 are located within the accelerator pedal assembly. Each sensor has the following circuits:
• A 5-volt reference circuit
• A low reference circuit
• A signal circuit
This provides the powertrain control module (PCM) with a signal voltage proportional to accelerator pedal movement. The APP sensor 1 signal voltage at rest position is near the low reference and increases as the pedal is actuated. The APP sensor 2 signal voltage at rest position is near the 5-volt reference and decreases as the pedal is actuated.
DTC P2135
The throttle actuator control (TAC) assembly has 2 throttle position (TP) sensors mounted within the assembly. The powertrain control module (PCM) provides individual signal, ground, and 5-volt reference circuits to each sensor. Both sensors operate within a voltage range between 0.35-4.65 volts. When the throttle is opened from 0-100 percent, one sensor signal voltage increases while the other decreases. The signal circuit for TP sensor 1 is referenced to ground, and the signal circuit for TP sensor 2 is pulled up to 5 volts within the PCM.
DTC P2128
DTC P2127
DTC P2125
DTC P2123
Drive by Wire Function and diagnostics by Wells
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