P2173: Throttle Actuator Control System - High Air Flow Detected
What Does P2173 Mean?
P2173 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Throttle Actuator Control System - High Air Flow Detected. This code relates to the powertrain system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 5 different vehicle models.
Symptoms of P2173
- ⚠️ Check engine light illuminated
- ⚠️ Engine stalling or dying
- ⚠️ Loss of engine power
- ⚠️ Jerking or surging while driving
- ⚠️ Traction control system activated
- ⚠️ Vehicle enters limp/reduced power mode
Common Causes
- 🔍 Throttle body or throttle position sensor issue
- 🔍 Sensor or control module malfunction
P2173 Reports by Year
Real Owner Reports
From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.
"The contact owns a 2013 Dodge Avenger. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH the vehicle shut down completely and an unknown warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic and the mechanic stated that the gasket was leaking and that an unknown gasket (P2173). The vehic"
— Dodge Avenger owner, 02/06/2023
"WHILE DRIVING AT HWY. SPEED VEHICLE SURGED BUT NO WARNING LIGHTS, ETC. NEXT TIME STARTED, WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON INDICATING A P2173 CODE.CAR WAS JUST AT DODGE DEALER FOR RECALLS. CAR WILL IDLE FINE FOR A COUPLE OF MINUTES THEN START SURGING, IDLING ROUGH WITH NO POWER AND SET WARNING LIGHTS, MIL, ET"
— Dodge Avenger owner, 12/06/2019
"ON MARCH 4, WHILE VEHICLE WAS IN WARM-UP PHASE AT HOME, IN IDLE, A SHARP SNAP WAS HEARD (LATER DISCOVERED WAS THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE BODY), THEN VEHICLE SET TWO CODES (P0171, P2173), AND IMMEDIATELY WENT INTO LIMP MODE (TRACTION CONTROL OFF, THROTTLE BODY REDUCED POWER, ABS FOR SLOWING VEHICLE IF B"
— Jeep Compass owner, 03/04/2021
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Most Reported Vehicles for P2173
Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
| # | Vehicle | Reports |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | JEEP COMPASS | |
| 2 | DODGE AVENGER | |
| 3 | JEEP PATRIOT | |
| 4 | DODGE JOURNEY | |
| 5 | CHRYSLER 200 |
P2173 Reports by Vehicle
Detailed NHTSA complaint analysis for each vehicle model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with this code?
Will this code clear itself?
How do I find the exact cause?
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)
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1
Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
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2
Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
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Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.