P2101 on Pontiac: How to Diagnose & Fix
Throttle Actuator "A" Control Motor Circuit Range/Performance
1 Pontiac model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $250-$500 repair
P2101 on Pontiac by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
G6 owners frequently see a 'Reduced Engine Power' message with the car dropping into limp mode, triggered by throttle position sensor voltage-correlation faults. The throttle body's integrated TPS develops dirty or shorting solder points (sometimes attributed to 'tin whiskers') and corrosion at the connector, so the two throttle sensor signals disagree and the ECM cuts power for safety.
Common Symptoms
- Reduced Engine Power warning message
- Sudden loss of acceleration / limp mode
- Hesitation or rough idle
- Check engine light
How to Fix
Inspect and clean the throttle body and TPS connector; check wiring for corrosion/water intrusion. The common fix is replacing the electronic throttle body assembly; relearn the throttle after replacement.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- GM 19300180 throttle-position sensor kit
Confirm the installed throttle body is the applicable Hitachi design and verify by VIN before purchase.
- GM 12609500 electronic throttle body assembly
2006-2010 Pontiac G6 3.5L or 3.9L as cataloged; confirm VIN, throttle manufacturer and supersession before ordering.
- GM 12615503 electronic throttle body assembly
2007-2009 Pontiac G6 3.6L as cataloged. Does not cover the 2.4L, 3.5L or 3.9L branches.
- GM 12631186 electronic throttle body assembly
2008-2010 Pontiac G6 2.4L; GM catalog supersession may be 12694871. Excludes 2006-2007 2.4L until a VIN-matched catalog path is verified.
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Sources for this issue (3)
P2101 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P2101 mean on a Pontiac?
P2101 stands for "Throttle Actuator "A" Control Motor Circuit Range/Performance." This powertrain code means the engine computer commanded the electronic throttle actuator motor to a certain position but the motor did not respond within the expected range. Modern engines use a drive-by-wire throttle, where a motor opens and closes the throttle plate based on signals from the computer rather than a cable. When the actual throttle position disagrees with the commanded position, the computer sets this code, often forcing the vehicle into a reduced-power 'limp' mode to protect the engine. This can cause poor acceleration or stalling and should be addressed promptly. On Pontiac it is documented across 1 model: G6.
What are the most common causes of P2101?
The most common causes of P2101 are: Faulty throttle actuator control motor (throttle body), Dirty or carbon-fouled throttle plate causing binding, Wiring or connector problems in the throttle actuator circuit, Failed throttle position sensor inside the throttle body, Poor electrical connection or corroded terminals, Faulty engine control module (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P2101 on a Pontiac?
Published repair estimates on Pontiac range from $250 to $500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P2101 on a different make?
View P2101 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.