What P2135 means
The two sensors that report how far the throttle is open disagree with each other. The computer can't trust the reading, so it limits engine power. The sensor is usually built into the throttle body.
How the engine computer detects it
The two redundant throttle position sensors on the throttle body disagree by more than allowed. Distinct from P2138 which monitors the pedal pair — P2135 monitors the throttle-body pair on drive-by-wire systems.
Written from public technical sources and not yet checked by a mechanic. How we write these pages
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Reduced throttle response, possible limp mode
- Hesitation or surging
- Idle too high or too low
Common causes
- Throttle position sensor track worn Most likely
- Corrosion on throttle body connector Possible
How to diagnose P2135
- Inspect the throttle body connector for corrosion, loose pins or water.
- Wiggle the wiring harness with the engine running and watch for stalling or a change in the scanner reading.
- On a scanner, compare throttle position sensors 1 and 2 while slowly opening the throttle. They should move smoothly together.
- If one signal jumps or drops out, replace the throttle body (most have the sensor built in) and run a throttle relearn.
Vehicles that report P2135 most
| Vehicle | Years | Reports | Share | Median miles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet Malibu | 2008–2017 | 20 | 73k | |
| Ford Focus | 2009–2010 | 7 | 74k | |
| Chevrolet Equinox | 2007–2011 | 7 | 84k | |
| Chevrolet Impala | 2006–2011 | 6 | 65k | |
| Chevrolet Cruze | 2012–2013 | 6 | 73k | |
| Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | 2003–2009 | 5 | 113k | |
| Nissan Altima | 2004–2008 | 4 | 53k | |
| Hyundai Sonata | 2007–2012 | 4 | 69k | |
| Chevrolet Tahoe | 2010–2013 | 4 | 67k | |
| Chevrolet Aveo | 2008–2009 | 4 | 70k |
Counts of owner complaints to the NHTSA that mention P2135 (131 in total), not failure rates: popular models get more complaints simply because more of them are on the road. Models with fewer than 3 complaints are left out.
Reading the code
- P
- Powertrain
- 2
- Generic (SAE) code
- 135
- Specific fault
Questions drivers ask
Can I drive with code P2135?
Drive gently to a safe place or a shop. The car may go into reduced-power mode, and the problem can come and go.
Will my car pass an emissions inspection with P2135?
Probably not in states that test vehicles with an OBD-II scan: an emissions-related code that keeps the check engine light on is usually an automatic fail. Rules differ by state and county, so check yours.
Will P2135 clear by itself?
The light can go off after several drive cycles without the fault, but the code returns if the cause is still there. After a repair, the readiness monitors need a full drive cycle before an inspection.
Can I fix P2135 myself?
Often yes, with an OBD-II scanner and basic tools. Difficulty: medium. Start with the cheapest checks before replacing expensive parts.
Often reported together
Codes that owners mention in the same NHTSA complaints as P2135. They can point to a shared cause, so it's worth checking them together.
- P2106Throttle Actuator Control System — Forced Limited Power13 complaints
- P2111Throttle Actuator Control System — Stuck Open11 complaints
- P1511Manufacturer-specific code8 complaints
- P1295Manufacturer-specific code7 complaints
- P2101Throttle Actuator Control Motor Circuit Range/Performance7 complaints
- P0120Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch A Circuit5 complaints
This page is general information, not a substitute for a professional diagnosis. Repair costs are rough estimates for parts and labor and vary by vehicle and region.