P2141 code meaning
EGR Throttle Control Circuit A Low
Powertrain system Generic code P21xx codes Check engine light
What P2141 means
P2141 flags a low signal in the drive circuit of EGR throttle A, the main diesel regulating flap that lowers intake pressure so exhaust gas can flow back. A wire of the flap motor touching ground, a winding shorted to the housing or a wet connector are the common reasons. Note how J2012 spreads flap A over two ranges: open circuit and range/performance sit at P0487 and P0488, low and high at P2141 and P2142; flap B uses P213A to P213D. P0489 sounds similar but concerns the EGR valve A drive, not the throttle. No manufacturer documents P2141 publicly, so no figures can be quoted; CARB requires circuit faults on output components to be reported. The module usually disables the flap, which then rests open, and EGR is reduced.
P2141 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P2141
- Check engine lamp on
- Engine shudder when switched off
- Reduced power or limp mode
Common causes of P2141
- Most likelyChafed wire shorting to ground between module and flap
- PossibleMoisture or corrosion in the flap connector
- PossibleActuator motor winding shorted to housing
- Less likelyFaulty output stage in the engine control module
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
EGR throttle a
What each part of P2141 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. |
| 41 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P2141 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 P2141
What does P2141 mean?
P2141 means "EGR Throttle Control Circuit A Low". P2141 flags a low signal in the drive circuit of EGR throttle A, the main diesel regulating flap that lowers intake pressure so exhaust gas can flow back. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P2141?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P2141 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P2141 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P2141 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 P2141 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2.5 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P2141 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.