P2115 Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor “D” Minimum Stop Performance
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor D Minimum Stop Performance
What does that mean?
This is a generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and typically applies to OBD-II vehicles. That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Toyota, Subaru, Mazda, Ford, Chrysler, Dodge, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Volvo, etc. Although generic, the exact repair steps may vary depending on year, make, model and powertrain configuration.
A stored code P2115 means the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a malfunction in a the "D" throttle position sensor (TPS) or a particular pedal position sensor (PPS).
The designation "D" refers to a particular sensor. Consult a reliable vehicle information source for particulars pertaining to the vehicle in question. This code is only used in vehicles that are equipped with drive by wire (DBW) systems and is related to minimum stop or closed throttle performance.
The PCM controls the DBW system using a throttle actuator motor, multiple pedal position sensors (sometimes referred to as accelerator pedal position sensors), and several throttle position sensors. The sensors are typically supplied with a 5-volts reference, a ground, and at least one signal wire.
Generally speaking, TPS/PPS sensors are of the potentiometer type. A mechanical extension, on the accelerator pedal or the throttle plate shaft, actuates the contacts of the sensor. Sensor resistance changes, as the contacts are moved across the sensor circuit board, causing variations in circuit resistance and signal input voltage to the PCM.
If the PCM detects a minimum stop/closed throttle position sensor voltage signal (from the sensor designated D) that does not reflect the programmed parameter, a code P2115 will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may be illuminated. When this code is stored, the PCM will usually enter limp in mode. Engine acceleration could be severely limited (if not totally disabled) in this mode.
A throttle position sensor (TPS):
What is the severity of this DTC?
A P2115 should be considered severe because it can result in the vehicle being undriveable.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P2115 trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this P2115 throttle/pedal position sensor code may include:
What are some P2115 troubleshooting steps?
Check your vehicle information source for technical service bulletins (TSB) which parallel the make, model, and engine size of the vehicle in question. The symptoms and codes stored must also match. If you find a matching TSB, it will aid you dramatically in your diagnosis.
My diagnosis for a code P2115 would typically begin with a visual inspection of all system related wiring and connectors. I would also check the throttle plate for signs of carbon buildup or damage. Excessive carbon buildup, that holds the throttle body open at startup, may cause a code P2115 to be stored. Clean carbon from the throttle body according to manufacturer’s recommendations and repair or replace defective wiring or components as required, then retest the DBW system.
You will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source to accurately diagnose this code.
Next, connect the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port and retrieve all stored trouble codes. Write them down just in case you need the information later in your diagnosis. Keep any related freeze frame data, too. These notes may prove helpful, especially if the P2115 is intermittent. Now clear the codes and test-drive the vehicle to see if the code is reset.
If the code is immediately reset, voltage spikes and inconsistencies, between the TPS, PPS, and the PCM, may be detected using the scanner data stream. Narrow the data stream to display only pertinent data for a faster response. If no spikes and/or inconsistencies are detected, use the DVOM to retrieve live data at each of the sensor signal wires. To retrieve live data with the DVOM, connect the positive test lead to the appropriate signal wire and the ground test lead to the ground circuit, then observe the DVOM display while operating the DBW. Look for spikes in voltage as the throttle is actuated slowly from the closed position to wide open throttle. Voltage usually ranges from .5-volts at closed throttle to 4.5-volts at wide open throttle but consult your vehicle information source for exact specifications. If spikes or other irregularities are detected, suspect that the sensor being tested is defective. An oscilloscope is also a great tool for testing sensor operation.
If the sensor is operating as designed, disconnect any related controllers and test individual circuits with the DVOM, System wiring diagrams and connector pin out charts can help you to establish which circuits to test and where to find them on the vehicle. Repair or replace system circuits as required.
Suspect a defective PCM or a PCM programming error only if all system sensors and circuits check out.
Some manufacturers require that the throttle body, throttle actuator motor, and all throttle position sensors be replaced as a single unit
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"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p2115 in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p2115 and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.
Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p2115.
