What it means
The throttle position output circuit is open or has an open-circuit fault. This code concerns the output circuit, not necessarily the throttle position sensor.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
The throttle position output circuit carries a throttle-position signal from the control system to other vehicle electronics; this fault concerns the output circuit rather than necessarily the throttle position sensor itself. P2620 sets when the output circuit is open or otherwise has an open-circuit fault, interrupting the signal and potentially limiting engine response.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Output wire open or shorted
- ECU output stage failed
Symptoms
- Check-engine light
- Reduced engine power or sluggish throttle response
How to diagnose it
- Review freeze-frame data and live throttle-position readings to see whether the output signal disappeared when the fault set.
- Inspect the throttle-position output wire and connectors for a break, loose terminal, corrosion, or damaged insulation.
- Use the wiring diagram to check output-circuit continuity and look for an unintended short, following the manufacturer's specifications.
- Check whether the receiving systems and the control module show the same throttle-position information, if supported by the scan tool.
- If the wire and connections are intact, test the module's throttle-position output stage using the manufacturer's procedure.
Common fixes
- Reconnect or clean a loose or corroded output-circuit connector.
- Repair an open or shorted throttle-position output wire.
- Repair or replace the control module output stage if testing confirms it has failed.
Can I keep driving?
Drive only if throttle response remains predictable, and avoid fast traffic or situations that require quick acceleration. If power drops sharply or the throttle becomes unreliable, stop safely; the fault can worsen and leave the vehicle with limited engine response.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.