P2104 code meaning
Throttle Actuator Control System - Forced Idle
Powertrain system Generic code P21xx codes Check engine light
What P2104 means
P2104 is a status code: it does not name a broken part but records that the throttle control has switched into a forced-idle failure mode. In Ford's 2012 summary this happens on second-generation ETC systems when two or three accelerator pedal sensor tracks are lost, so the computer can no longer read driver demand; the engine then holds a raised idle and ignores the pedal, with MIL and wrench lamp. The actual cause is stored alongside it, usually a pedal sensor code such as P2122-P2128 or P2138. CARB counts such default modes as malfunctions whenever they can raise emissions. Repair means fixing the causal code, then clearing P2104. Related states are limited power (P2106), limited rpm (P2110) and shutdown (P2105).
P2104 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P2104
- Engine stays at raised idle, pedal has no effect
- Engine and ETC/wrench warning lamps on
- Car can only creep to a safe place
Common causes of P2104
- Most likelyFailure of two or more accelerator pedal sensor tracks
- PossiblePedal sensor wiring or shared 5 V reference fault
- Less likelyECU input or software fault
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Throttle actuator controlECM
What each part of P2104 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 1 | Area: fuel and air metering. |
| 04 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2104 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P2104
What does P2104 mean?
P2104 means "Throttle Actuator Control System - Forced Idle". P2104 is a status code: it does not name a broken part but records that the throttle control has switched into a forced-idle failure mode. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2104?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2104 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2104 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2104 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P2104 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P2104 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.