P2119 on Ford: How to Diagnose & Fix
Throttle Actuator Control Throttle Body Range/Performance
2 Ford models · 2 documented issues · 2 critical · $250-$700 repair
P2119 on Ford by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The drive-by-wire electronic throttle body (ETB) develops an internal electronic/motor fault (not just dirt) that causes the powertrain control module to command reduced power. The car drops into limp mode with a wrench/powertrain-malfunction light, often storing throttle-position or actuator-control codes.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden loss of power / limp mode while driving
- Wrench (powertrain malfunction) warning light
- Reduced or unresponsive acceleration
- Rough or high idle
- Intermittent stalling
How to Fix
Replace the electronic throttle body with an updated OEM/Motorcraft unit and perform the throttle-relearn/idle-relearn procedure afterward to prevent high idle and drivability faults.
Sources for this issue (3)
The electronic throttle body on the 3.5L Cyclone V6 uses a plastic-geared motor and integrated throttle position sensors. Contamination, gear wear and sensor drift cause the PCM to lose confidence in commanded vs. actual plate position, triggering Failure Mode Effects Management (FMEM) limp mode. The vehicle drops to a fixed low-power limp mode with the wrench light on, often at highway speed, which is why owners describe it as a safety issue rather than a driveability annoyance. Ford acknowledged the pattern with Customer Satisfaction Program 16B32 (2016 Flex built September 22, 2015 through April 14, 2016) and a TSB covering 2015-2016 3.5L vehicles built on or before 31 May 2016. The failure is frequently intermittent at first: the wrench light appears, the vehicle is restarted, and normal power returns until the next episode.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden loss of power / limp mode while driving
- Wrench (powertrain malfunction) light on dash
- Erratic or surging idle
- Engine stalls at stops
- Reduced throttle response that clears after restart
How to Fix
Confirm with stored P2111/P2112/P2119 (and often P2135 for TPS correlation). Cleaning the bore rarely gives a lasting fix once the gears or sensors are worn - the real repair is replacing the electronic throttle body with the updated Motorcraft part and then completing the throttle body relearn/KAM reset so the PCM adapts to the new unit. Check for the applicable Ford program by VIN before paying out of pocket; also verify the accelerator pedal position sensor, since a failing pedal sensor produces overlapping symptoms.
Sources for this issue (4)
P2119 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 P2119 mean on a Ford?
P2119 stands for "Throttle Actuator Control Throttle Body Range/Performance." The PCM detected that the throttle body / throttle plate is not operating within the expected range or performance, for example the plate not returning to or holding the commanded position. It indicates a mechanical or performance fault in the throttle body assembly. On Ford it is documented across 2 models: Fiesta, Flex.
What are the most common causes of P2119?
The most common causes of P2119 are: Dirty/carboned throttle body, Binding throttle plate or worn shaft, Failing throttle actuator motor, Damaged return spring, Throttle relearn needed. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P2119 on a Ford?
Published repair estimates on Ford range from $250 to $700 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.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.