Open or damaged wire in the throttle position output circuit; Corroded, loose, or disconnected electrical connector at the throttle body or ECM; Failed throttle position sensor (TPS) or throttle body assembly; Faulty ECM (less common); Aftermarket accessories or poor previous repairs interfering with the circuit

DTC codes / P26xx · Computer and output circuits / P2620

P2620Throttle Position Output Circuit/Open

Q: What does code P2620 mean?

Throttle Position Output Circuit/Open. P2620 indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected an open circuit or excessive resistance in the throttle position output circuit, which typically carries the throttle position signal from the throttle body to the ECM. The ECM monitors the voltage on this circuit and sets the code when the signal is outside the expected range, often indicating a broken wire, poor connection, or failed sensor.

P2620 indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected an open circuit or excessive resistance in the throttle position output circuit, which typically carries the throttle position signal from the throttle body to the ECM. The ECM monitors the voltage on this circuit and sets the code when the signal is outside the expected range, often indicating a broken wire, poor connection, or failed sensor.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaComputer and output circuits

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms
Reduced engine power or limp mode, limiting acceleration
Hesitation or stumble during acceleration
Erratic or surging idle
Poor fuel economy or increased emissions
In some cases, the engine may stall or fail to start

Common causes, most likely first

Open or damaged wire in the throttle position output circuit
Corroded, loose, or disconnected electrical connector at the throttle body or ECM
Failed throttle position sensor (TPS) or throttle body assembly
Faulty ECM (less common)
Aftermarket accessories or poor previous repairs interfering with the circuit

How to diagnose and fix it

Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm P2620 and check for related codes; record freeze-frame data
Visually inspect the throttle body and TPS connectors for corrosion, damage, or loose pins; clean and reseat as needed
Check the wiring harness for the throttle position output circuit for continuity, shorts, and resistance; repair any damaged wires
Backprobe the TPS connector and monitor the signal voltage while slowly opening the throttle; compare to manufacturer specifications
If the signal is missing or out of range, test the TPS with a multimeter for resistance and smooth operation; replace if faulty
If the TPS and wiring are good, check for ECM software updates or test the ECM according to service information
Clear codes and perform a road test to verify the repair; ensure the throttle body is relearned if required

Don't overlook the wiring harness

A common cause of P2620 is a chafed wire in the harness near the throttle body, often caused by engine vibration or rodent damage, which can be missed if only the sensor is replaced.
The code can be set intermittently by a poor connection that only acts up under certain conditions like temperature changes or engine movement, so a wiggle test of the harness while monitoring live data is crucial.
On some vehicles, the throttle position output circuit is shared with other sensors, so a fault in a related component can trigger P2620 even if the TPS itself is fine.
Replacing the throttle body without checking the wiring and connectors first is a costly misdiagnosis, as the open circuit is frequently in the connector or harness rather than the sensor.
After repairs, some vehicles require a throttle body relearn procedure; failing to do so can cause poor running and may set the code again.

Can I keep driving with P2620?

If the vehicle is in limp mode or has severe drivability issues, avoid driving and seek professional diagnosis. If the only symptom is the check engine light and the car runs normally, you can drive cautiously to a repair shop, but avoid heavy acceleration or towing.

Tools that help

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