What does code P1588 mean?

Q: What does code P1588 mean?

Throttle Control Unit Detected Loss of Return Spring. P1588 on Ford vehicles means the electronic throttle control (ETC) system has detected a loss of the throttle plate return spring, so the throttle body cannot reliably snap back to its default position when the motor is de-energized. The powertrain control module (PCM) monitors throttle plate movement and motor current during key-on and closed-throttle events, and it sets this code when the plate fails to return as expected.

DTC codes / Ford codes / P1588

P1588 · FordThrottle Control Unit Detected Loss of Return Spring

P1588 on Ford vehicles means the electronic throttle control (ETC) system has detected a loss of the throttle plate return spring, so the throttle body cannot reliably snap back to its default position when the motor is de-energized. The powertrain control module (PCM) monitors throttle plate movement and motor current during key-on and closed-throttle events, and it sets this code when the plate fails to return as expected.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeFord specific

SeverityHigh

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaVehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs

Guidance is general and written for Ford vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.