P2101 — Throttle Actuator A Control Motor Circuit Range/Performance

What Does P2101 Mean?

P2101 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Throttle Actuator A Control Motor Circuit Range/Performance. This code relates to the powertrain system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 14 different vehicle models.

Symptoms of P2101

⚠️ Check engine light illuminated
⚠️ Difficulty starting the engine
⚠️ Vehicle won't start
⚠️ Traction control system activated
⚠️ Vehicle enters limp/reduced power mode
⚠️ Oil leak or excessive consumption

Common Causes

🔍 Throttle body or throttle position sensor issue
🔍 Stuck or failed EGR valve
🔍 Failed PCV valve
🔍 Worn timing chain or belt

P2101 Reports by Year

2020

2

2018

2

2023

2

2014

2

2015

2

Real Owner Reports

From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.

"ATTEMPT TO START CAR FIRST THING IN THE AM. CAR IS IN THE GARAGE. DOES NOT START, AND THE FCW, LDW, TIRE PRESSURE, POWER STEERING, ENGINE CHECK, LIGHTS COME ON. READING THE CODES SHOWS P2101 SET. THIS HAS HAPPENED 3 TIMES. FIRST TIME, AAA CHECKED AND CHARGED BATTERY AND A ERASED P2101 CODE. SECOND "
— Honda Accord owner, 07/22/2020

"The engine failed and I was stranded 60 miles from home.all the dash lights were blinking and I couldn’t get the parking brake to unlock . It is available for inspection . I was stranded at a service station with another senior citizen for three hours in 100 degree plus weather. We were stranded an"
— Honda Cr-V owner, 08/17/2023

"LAST WINTER I WENT GERMAIN HONDA OF DUBLIN AND THEY SAID THEY COULDN'T FIND ANY THING. THEY SAID WHEN THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON T 8 B TRY ING IT IN AND THEY SAID THEY WILL SCAN THE LIGHT. WHEN MY CHECKENGINE LIGHT COME ON BY THE TIME I GET TO THE DEALERS ITS NOT ON. I HAD THE BATTERY REPLAC"
— Honda Fit owner, 06/10/2014

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

Most Reported Vehicles for P2101

Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.

#	Vehicle	Reports
1	HONDA ACCORD
2	HONDA CR-V
3	HONDA FIT
4	FORD ESCAPE
5	CHEVROLET EQUINOX
6	CHEVROLET MALIBU
7	CHEVROLET TRAVERSE
8	NISSAN ALTIMA
9	NISSAN ROGUE
10	NISSAN TITAN
11	NISSAN VERSA
12	DODGE JOURNEY
13	JEEP WRANGLER
14	VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN

P2101 Reports by Vehicle

Detailed NHTSA complaint analysis for each vehicle model.

HONDA ACCORD

2 NHTSA reports · Peak: 2015

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with this code?

It depends on the severity. If the vehicle runs normally, short trips are usually OK. If you notice performance issues, drivability problems, or warning lights beyond the check engine light, get it checked soon.

Will this code clear itself?

Some codes clear automatically after the underlying issue is fixed and several drive cycles pass. But the root cause must be addressed first.

How do I find the exact cause?

A code alone doesn't pinpoint the failed part. You need a diagnostic scan ($50-150 at most shops) that reads freeze frame data and live sensor readings to identify the specific component.

What To Do Next

Possible Fixes

🔧 Have the code scanned with a professional-grade scanner to read freeze frame data
🔧 Test the relevant sensor(s) with a multimeter before replacing
🔧 If DIY repair isn't feasible, get a diagnostic from a trusted mechanic ($50-150)

1
Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
2
Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
3
Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.

P2101: Throttle Actuator A Control Motor Circuit Range/Performance