P2118 — Throttle Actuator A Control Motor Current Range/Performance

What Does P2118 Mean?

P2118 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Throttle Actuator A Control Motor Current Range/Performance. This code relates to the powertrain system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 4 different vehicle models.

Common Causes

🔍 Throttle body or throttle position sensor issue

P2118 Reports by Year

2017

1

2018

1

2023

1

2012

1

Real Owner Reports

From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.

"CAR LOSSES POWER SUDDENLY AND LURCHES. THIS HAS HAPPEND WHEN CAR IS CRUISING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS OR WHEN STARTED, STATIONARY. ONCE THAT HAPPENS CAR MAY HAVE TO BE RESTARTED TO WORK AGAIN. SOMETIMES THAT WORKS, SOMETIMES IT DOES NOT. WHEN IT PERSISTS FOR A WHILE, MAXIMUM SPEED IS ABOUT 5 MPH IF STARTED"
— Kia Optima owner, 05/16/2018

"I was on the freeway and all of a sudden these lights came on and my car slowed down to a very dangerous pace and would not accelerate. This is only 2 weeks after getting 2 new tires on it. VEHICLE HAS CODES P2118, P2072, P2112, P2110 AND P2101. ALL CODES DEAL WITH THE With Customer: ELECTRONIC THRO"
— Dodge Journey owner, 01/04/2023

"CAR PURCHASED BRAND NEW IN 2007 WITH LIFETIME POWERTRAIN WARRANTY. DRIVEN 99% ON INTERSTATE AT APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH. ALL MANUFACTURER'S MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS HAVE BEEN FOLLOWED. WHILE DRIVING APPROX 72 MPH IN FLOW OF TRAFFIC, CAR SUDDENLY DECELERATED TO UNDER 35 MPH AND LIGHTNING BOLT ("
— Dodge Caliber owner, 07/15/2012

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

Most Reported Vehicles for P2118

Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.

#	Vehicle	Reports
1	FORD ESCAPE
2	KIA OPTIMA
3	DODGE JOURNEY
4	DODGE CALIBER

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.

P2118: Throttle Actuator A Control Motor Current Range/Performance