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Harley Code P2119: Causes and Fixes

by

Chase Manhattan

Chase Manhattan Avatar
Owner and Editor at The Wrench Network

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Hey y’all, it’s Chase Manhattan! I’m a life-long automotive and motorcycle enthusiast with a knack for diagnostics that I hope to share with you! Lately, I’ve been running my own motorcycle rental business, which you can read about here, and it has been a great experience that has allowed me to own numerous bikes that I probably couldn’t justify otherwise. Plus, it’s been a great way to experience new places while on vacation. If you haven’t heard of them before, I definitely recommend checking out the Riders-Share platform if you get the itch to ride while away from home, or if you want to explore a cheaper way to own and ride motorcycles!

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If you own a Harley-Davidson motorcycle and have encountered the trouble code P2119, you may be wondering what it means and how to fix it. This code is related to the throttle position sensor and can cause issues with your engine’s performance and fuel efficiency. When the throttle blade does not return to its rest position within one second, the Engine Control Module (ECM) will set the P2119 code.

When this happens, the ECM will also turn on the check engine light and display the message “ETC actuator return error: Discontinue operation. See dealer for repair.” This means that you should stop riding your motorcycle and take it to a Harley-Davidson dealer for repair. Attempting to ride your motorcycle with this code present can cause further damage to your engine.

It’s important to address the P2119 code as soon as possible to prevent any further damage to your engine. A Harley-Davidson dealer will be able to diagnose and repair the issue, ensuring that your motorcycle is running smoothly and efficiently.

Understanding Trouble Code P2119

If you own a Harley-Davidson motorcycle and have encountered trouble code P2119, you may be wondering what it means and how to fix it. In this section, we will provide you with a brief overview of what trouble code P2119 means, its causes, and possible diagnostics.

Definition and Meaning

Trouble code P2119 is an OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) code that stands for “Throttle Actuator Control Throttle Body Range/Performance.” This code indicates that the throttle blade did not return to the rest position within one second. This can cause issues with the engine’s performance and fuel efficiency.

Causes and Diagnostics

There are several possible causes of trouble code P2119. Here are some of the most common causes:

  • Throttle actuator control motor failure
  • Throttle position sensor failure
  • Wiring issues
  • ECM (Engine Control Module) failure

To diagnose the issue, you can start by checking the wiring harness and connectors for any damage or loose connections. You can also test the throttle position sensor to see if it is functioning properly. If these tests do not reveal any issues, you may need to replace the throttle actuator control motor or the ECM.

It is important to note that trouble code P2119 can cause reduced engine performance and may even cause the engine to stall. Therefore, it is important to address this issue as soon as possible to avoid any safety concerns while riding your motorcycle.

In summary, trouble code P2119 is related to the throttle actuator control and can cause issues with the engine’s performance and fuel efficiency. The causes of this issue can range from wiring issues to ECM failure. If you encounter this trouble code, it is important to diagnose and fix the issue as soon as possible to avoid any safety concerns while riding your motorcycle.

Symptoms of Code P2119

When your Harley-Davidson motorcycle is experiencing code P2119, it can be frustrating and concerning. The good news is that this code usually has very noticeable symptoms, which can help you diagnose the problem and get your bike back to peak performance.

The most common symptom of code P2119 is an illuminated engine light. This light can be a solid or flashing light on your dashboard, and it is a clear indication that something is wrong with your motorcycle’s throttle actuator control system.

Another symptom of code P2119 is unresponsive throttle. This means that when you press down on the throttle, your motorcycle may not respond as quickly or as forcefully as it should. This can be dangerous, especially if you are riding in traffic or on a busy road.

In some cases, your motorcycle may go into “limp mode” when code P2119 is present. This means that your bike’s performance will be severely reduced, and you may only be able to idle or travel at low speeds.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to take your motorcycle to a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring code P2119 can lead to further damage to your engine and other components, which can be costly to repair.

In summary, the symptoms of code P2119 include an illuminated engine light, unresponsive throttle, and reduced performance. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to have your motorcycle checked out by a professional mechanic.

The Throttle Body and Actuator Control

Throttle Body Function

The throttle body is an essential component of your Harley-Davidson’s engine management system. It regulates the airflow into the engine by controlling the throttle plate’s position. The throttle plate is a circular disc that rotates around a shaft. When you depress the accelerator pedal, the throttle plate opens, allowing more air into the engine. The throttle position sensor (TPS) is responsible for monitoring the throttle plate’s position and sending signals to the engine control module (ECM) to adjust the fuel injection and ignition timing accordingly.

Throttle Actuator Control System

The throttle actuator control system is responsible for controlling the throttle plate’s position. It uses an electric motor to rotate the throttle plate and is controlled by the ECM. The system consists of several components, including the throttle actuator, throttle position sensor, and wiring harness. When the ECM detects an issue with the throttle actuator control system, it will set the P2119 trouble code.

If your Harley-Davidson is displaying the P2119 code, it means that the throttle actuator control system is not functioning correctly. The ECM has detected that the throttle plate is not in the expected position. This can be caused by several issues, including a faulty throttle actuator, a damaged throttle body, or a malfunctioning throttle position sensor.

In conclusion, the throttle body and actuator control system are critical components of your Harley-Davidson’s engine management system. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent issues with these components. If your Harley-Davidson is displaying the P2119 code, it is essential to have it diagnosed and repaired by a qualified technician to prevent further damage to your engine.

Electrical Components and Wiring

When it comes to Harley code P2119, electrical components and wiring are potential culprits that could be causing the issue. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at wiring issues and circuit problems.

Wiring Issues

Wiring issues can cause problems with the throttle actuator control motor, leading to code P2119. Damaged, burnt, shorted, disconnected, or corroded wiring and connectors in the throttle actuator motors’ control circuits can all cause issues. Poor electrical connections in this harness are a common cause of code P2119 on many applications.

To fix wiring issues, you need to check the wiring harness and connectors for any damage or corrosion. If you find any issues, you’ll need to replace the damaged components. It’s important to inspect the wiring harness and connectors regularly to prevent any future issues.

Circuit Problems

Circuit problems can also cause issues with the throttle actuator control motor, leading to code P2119. A faulty engine control module (ECM) can be the cause of the P2119 fault code. Electrical connector issues are common on all vehicles and all systems. Problem areas are not always visually apparent and warrant a more comprehensive look at the wiring harness and connectors of each component.

If you suspect circuit problems, it’s important to inspect the wiring harness and connectors for any issues. You should also check the ECM to ensure it’s functioning correctly. If you find any issues, you’ll need to replace the damaged components.

In conclusion, electrical components and wiring can cause issues with the throttle actuator control motor, leading to Harley code P2119. Regular inspections of the wiring harness and connectors can prevent future issues. If you find any issues, you’ll need to replace the damaged components to fix the problem.

Diagnostic Procedures

When you encounter Harley code P2119, it’s important to perform diagnostic procedures to determine the root cause of the issue. Here are the steps you should follow:

Initial Inspection

The first thing you should do is to visually inspect the throttle body and throttle actuator control for any signs of damage or wear. Check for any loose connections or broken wires. If everything looks good, the next step is to perform a diagnostic scan of the engine control module (ECM) to retrieve any pending or stored codes.

Advanced Diagnostics

If the initial inspection and diagnostic scan did not reveal any issues, you may need to perform more advanced diagnostics. This may involve using specialized diagnostic tools and equipment to test the throttle position sensor and throttle actuator control. You may also need to check the throttle body for any signs of carbon buildup or other obstructions.

If you are not comfortable performing these advanced diagnostics yourself, it’s recommended that you take your Harley to a qualified mechanic who has experience working with Harley-Davidson motorcycles. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to diagnose and repair any issues with your bike.

Remember, Harley code P2119 is a malfunction code that indicates an issue with the throttle actuator control. It’s important to address this issue as soon as possible to prevent any further damage to your motorcycle. By following these diagnostic procedures, you can quickly identify and repair the problem, ensuring that your Harley is running smoothly and reliably.

Repair and Maintenance Tips

If you are experiencing Harley code P2119, there are a few repair and maintenance tips that you can follow to get your bike back on the road.

First and foremost, it is important to take your bike to a certified mechanic who can diagnose the issue and provide you with a proper repair plan. Attempting to fix the issue yourself can lead to further damage and costly repairs.

Once you have determined the root cause of the issue, you may need to replace the throttle actuator control throttle body range/performance with a new one. This repair can be costly, so it is important to shop around and compare prices from different repair shops.

To prevent future occurrences of Harley code P2119, it is important to keep up with regular maintenance on your bike. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, and regular inspections of your bike’s electrical system.

In addition, it is important to keep your bike clean and free of debris. Dirt and grime can build up in your bike’s throttle body, leading to performance issues and potential damage.

By following these repair and maintenance tips, you can keep your Harley running smoothly and avoid costly repairs in the future.

Preventing Future Issues

To prevent future issues with Harley code P2119, it is important to perform regular maintenance on your motorcycle. This includes checking and cleaning the throttle body, as well as inspecting the wiring and connectors for any signs of damage or wear. Regular maintenance can help prevent issues with the throttle actuator control and other components.

In addition to maintenance, it is important to ensure that your Harley’s battery is in good condition. A weak or failing battery can cause issues with the throttle actuator control and other electrical components. Check the battery regularly and replace it if necessary.

Another factor to consider is the ignition switch. A faulty ignition switch can cause issues with the throttle actuator control and other electrical components. If you notice any issues with your ignition switch, have it inspected and replaced if necessary.

To ensure optimal performance and prevent issues with Harley code P2119, it is also important to use high-quality parts and accessories. Cheap or low-quality parts can cause issues with the throttle actuator control and other components, leading to costly repairs and downtime.

By following these tips and performing regular maintenance on your Harley, you can prevent future issues with code P2119 and keep your motorcycle running smoothly.

Additional Trouble Codes and Sensors

In addition to the P2119 code, there are several other trouble codes and sensors that may be related to your Harley-Davidson motorcycle’s performance. Here are some of the most common ones:

  • P0131: This code indicates a problem with the O2 sensor circuit on Bank 1, Sensor 1. This sensor is responsible for monitoring the amount of oxygen in the exhaust and adjusting the fuel mixture accordingly.

  • P0151: This code indicates a problem with the O2 sensor circuit on Bank 2, Sensor 1. Like the Bank 1 sensor, this sensor is responsible for monitoring the amount of oxygen in the exhaust and adjusting the fuel mixture accordingly.

  • Throttle Actuator Control: The throttle actuator control is responsible for controlling the position of the throttle valve. If this system is not working properly, you may experience issues with engine performance and fuel efficiency.

  • PCM: The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is responsible for controlling the engine and transmission. It receives input from various sensors and makes adjustments to ensure optimal performance.

  • ECU Relay Error: The ECU (Engine Control Unit) relay is responsible for supplying power to the ECU. If this relay fails, you may experience issues with engine performance and starting.

  • MAP Sensor Failed High/Open Port: The MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensor is responsible for measuring the pressure inside the intake manifold. If this sensor fails, you may experience issues with engine performance and fuel efficiency.

If you experience any of these trouble codes or sensor failures, it is important to have your motorcycle diagnosed by a qualified technician. They can identify the root cause of the issue and make the necessary repairs to ensure your motorcycle is running smoothly.

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