P2106 code meaning
Throttle Actuator Control System - Forced Limited Power
Powertrain system Generic code P21xx codes Check engine light
What P2106 means
P2106 tells you the throttle control is running in a reduced-power fallback. Ford's 2012 summary lists the reasons on second-generation ETC: loss of the MAF signal, one throttle position sensor, crank position or transmission speed sensors, a stuck throttle or a throttle motor circuit fault; it sets with MIL and wrench lamp, and a crank sensor code (P0320/P0322) also adds P2106. VW's 2014 data book uses it when an internal plausibility check of the engine computer fails. So P2106 almost always appears with another code that names the real defect, and that one is repaired first. The driver notices weak acceleration and a capped top speed. Forced idle is P2104, limited rpm P2110, shutdown P2105.
P2106 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P2106
- Reduced power, sluggish acceleration
- Engine and wrench/ETC lamp on
- Limited road speed
Common causes of P2106
- Most likelyFailed input such as MAF, throttle position or crank sensor
- PossibleSticking throttle or fault in the throttle motor circuit
- Less likelyFailed internal check or software in the engine computer
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 P2106 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. |
| 06 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2106 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 P2106
What does P2106 mean?
P2106 means "Throttle Actuator Control System - Forced Limited Power". P2106 tells you the throttle control is running in a reduced-power fallback. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2106?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2106 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2106 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2106 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 P2106 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P2106 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.