P2104 on Ford Explorer
Throttle Actuator Control System - Forced Idle
Methodology: Reviewed against the SAE J2012 generic DTC definition and NHTSA owner-complaint patterns, then scoped to Ford Explorer context without treating complaints as confirmed diagnoses.
Sources: SAE/OBD-II definitions, manufacturer service information, and public reliability reports (including NHTSA where applicable).
- SAE J2012 Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions — Generic diagnostic trouble code definition reference for P2104.
- NHTSA recalls, complaints, and manufacturer communications — Used to check public owner complaint context, recall status, and safety-related manufacturer communications by VIN or vehicle.
Limits: Guidance is informational and may not match every model-year or revision. Confirm with the official manual and diagnostics before replacing parts. For safety-critical or electrical work, use a qualified technician.
What P2104 Means on Your Ford Explorer
P2104 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Throttle Actuator Control System - Forced Idle. This code relates to the powertrain system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.
Real Ford Explorer Owner Reports
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
"Just driving along taking a mild corner and my 2005 ford explorer just died and the steering wheel locked up. took to the local auto repair and they got two codes p2104 and p2112. which has something to do with the throttle actuator."
"While driving 2006 ford explorer shuts down several time at different occasion sometimes a little wrench appears and gas pedal becomes unresponsive and cruise control can not be engage and vehicle idle very rough when come to a stop."
All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year
Common Causes on Ford Explorer
Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.
What To Do Next
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1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
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2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
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3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.