A Closer Look: Electronic Throttle Bodies and Control Systems

Electronic Throttle Control Overview

Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) has been around for decades. It has been called by various names and has been the subject of media scrutiny at times. But these systems are responsible for improving fuel economy, reducing emissions, protecting powertrain components and providing an overall better driving experience.

While ETC is beneficial, there are also faults that occur. These faults can be frustrating for the motorist as well as technicians. Quite often an intermittent fault will happen for an instant but will result in a limp-in condition for the customer. Customers may show up at the shop with an array of concerns caused by ETC systems – cruise control inoperative, vehicle stuck in limp in mode, warning lamp illuminated.

The majority of the vehicles on the road use ETC today, and it is important for technicians to understand the principles of the system before delving into system specifics.

The Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor (APP)

The Accelerator Pedal Position sensor (APP) is the driver’s input to the PCM. Previously the driver would press on the accelerator pedal, which would pull on a cable that was physically connected to the throttle blade. There was a Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) attached to the throttle blade, which would report the request to the PCM along with feedback as to the actual position of the throttle blade.

On ETC vehicles, the driver still presses on the accelerator pedal, but in most applications, there is no longer a cable attached to the pedal. Instead, there is now an APP mounted to the pedal. The APP will consist of 2 or more sensors, which will act as an input device to the PCM or the ETC standalone module. It is important to have multiple inputs present for failsafe measures. Since this is a critical input for safety, there is a system of checks and balances in place to prevent unintended acceleration, or no acceleration. Many times, these sensors will work opposite of each other, or change at varying rates so the control module can assume that the signal lines aren’t shorted together. The APP many times will incorporate a calibrated spring assembly, so the driver has the familiar feel when pressing on the accelerator pedal.

The Powertrain Control Module

The Powertrain Control Module is still the brains of the operation. While some ETC applications have a standalone control module, most rely on the PCM for control. The PCM will analyze the inputs from the APP, and then command the throttle body to act appropriately. The PCM will then analyze the feedback from the multiple Throttle Position Sensors to monitor the position of the throttle blade and adjust the position of the blade according to the driver’s request and the vehicle’s demand.

The throttle body is where the actual work is performed. The throttle body receives the command from the PCM. Again, it is important to understand that there isn’t a direct correlation between the APP and the throttle opening. Just because someone has the pedal pressed to the floor, the throttle body won’t be wide open. The PCM will command throttle open based on a number of inputs and driving conditions. As seen in the capture above, the driver pressed the APP all the way to 100%, but the throttle angle gradually changed and altered to protect the powertrain.

Electronic Throttle Bodies

Most throttle bodies will have two wires that control the throttle body motor function, similar to the control of a power window motor. To drive the throttle blade open, power will be supplied on one wire, while the other wire is supplied ground. In order to close the throttle blade, the polarities will be reversed.

The throttle body also incorporates the multiple Throttle Position Sensors. These are similar to the APP sensors in that multiple sensors are used for safety and each sensor operates independent of the other sensors.

When attempting to diagnose an Electronic Throttle Control fault, it is important the technician follow Diagnostic Trouble Codes carefully, always check Technical Service Bulletins and look for software updates. Many times, the DTC will be divided into three areas: APP, logic (PCM or wiring) or throttle body (TPS). It is also important for the technician to keep in mind that other areas of the vehicle’s control system may cause throttle-related symptoms that aren’t necessarily faults of the electronic throttle control system. Faults such as wheel-speed sensors could affect throttle opening and should be diagnosed first.

Tech Tip

In order to avoid idle drivability concerns, after a component from the electronic throttle system has been replaced, it is important that the PCM memory be erased, and the electronic throttle control system values be learned. While some vehicles require a reflash, and others require an extensive relearn procedure, some manufacturers’ procedures are relatively simple. In some cases, these values can be learned by operating the engine for two minutes in park with AC off, two minutes in park with AC on, two minutes in drive with AC off and two minutes in drive with the AC on.

Premium Replacements for a Growing Category

The Electronic Throttle Control system offers many parts replacement opportunities. Electronic Throttle Bodies (ETBs) have high O.E. failure rates, and when the original part fails, it can impact the vehicle's power, fuel economy and drivability.

Standard^® offers the most comprehensive ETB line in the aftermarket – more than 200 premium ETBs covering 150 million VIO. Every Standard^® ETB is 100 percent new, never remanufactured, and each undergoes extensive calibration and testing. All Standard-manufactured ETBs are built in North America in an IATF 16949-certified facility. As an expert manufacturer, Standard^® designs upgrades to failure-prone OE components and includes ETB gaskets where required.

For more information on diagnosing and replacing these components, visit the Standard Brand YouTube channel or StandardBrand.com.