P2100 on 2022 Jeep Wrangler: Electronic Throttle Control Motor Circuit Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2022-2022 Jeep WRANGLER

For the 2022 Jeep Wrangler (JL) and its sibling the Gladiator (JT), the P2100 code is a known issue addressed by specific manufacturer documents. Jeep has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 18-071-22 for the Gladiator and similar software updates for the Wrangler, which address P2100 and the related P2107 code. This indicates a recognized problem that may be resolved with a specific PCM software update. This makes checking for software updates with a dealer a critical first step before replacing the throttle body, even though the throttle body is also a very common failure point.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) is on.
• Flashing red lightning bolt symbol (Electronic Throttle Control warning light) on the dashboard.
🎬 Watch: Troubleshooting the Jeep ETC lightning bolt warning light.
• Vehicle enters 'limp mode,' with drastically reduced engine power and acceleration.
• Engine is unable to rev above idle speed.
• Sudden loss of power while driving, sometimes on very new vehicles with low mileage.
• Rough or unstable idle.
• No response from the accelerator pedal.

Most Likely Causes

1. Faulty Electronic Throttle Body Assembly 🔴 High Probability → Shop Fuel Injection Throttle Body This is a widely reported issue across the JL/JT platform, with numerous owner accounts of failure at very low mileage. A user on Jeep Gladiator Forum reported a failure at just 273 miles, which was resolved by replacing the throttle body. The internal motor or position sensor within the sealed unit fails, necessitating replacement of the entire assembly.
   How to confirm: After confirming wiring is intact, a bi-directional scan tool can command the throttle motor to move; no response indicates a failed motor. A clicking or buzzing sound from the unit upon startup that is abnormal can also suggest internal failure. The most definitive confirmation is replacement, as it is the most common fix reported by owners.
   Typical fix: Replace the entire throttle body assembly. 🎬 See this step-by-step guide for installing a new throttle body. An Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) relearn procedure is required after replacement.
   Est. part cost: $200-$450
2. Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software Glitch 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Engine Control Module (ECM) Jeep has released TSB #18-071-22 for the 2022 Gladiator, which specifically addresses DTCs P2100 and P2107 by reprogramming the PCM. This indicates a known software issue can falsely trigger this code or contribute to its occurrence. Similar updates exist for the Wrangler.
   How to confirm: A Jeep dealership or a properly equipped independent shop can check 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose and fix P2100 series engine codes. the current software version of the PCM against the latest version available from the manufacturer by using the vehicle's VIN.
   Typical fix: Reprogram (flash) the PCM with the latest software using a wiTECH scan tool. This is often performed under warranty or as part of a service campaign (Rapid Service Update).
   Est. part cost: $0-$200
3. Wiring Harness or Connector Issue ⚪ Low Probability Engine vibrations can cause wires to chafe or break, and connectors can become loose or corroded. On the JL platform, there have been reports of the harness near the front passenger wheel well chafing or melting due to proximity to the exhaust, which can affect throttle control circuits.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness leading to the throttle body for any signs of damage, chafing, or melting. Unplug the 6-pin connector and check for corrosion, moisture, or bent/spread pins. Use a multimeter to test for continuity and proper voltage at the connector according to the vehicle's service manual.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wiring harness or clean/replace the connector. Secure the harness away from heat sources like the exhaust.
   Est. part cost: $10-$100

Rare But Worth Checking

• Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Failure: → Shop Engine Control Module (ECM) This is the least likely cause. Before condemning the PCM, all other possibilities, including throttle body failure, wiring issues, and software updates, must be exhaustively ruled out. One forum user reported a PCM replacement was required after a throttle body replacement did not fix the issue, but this is uncommon.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs). Contact a dealership with your VIN to see if TSB #18-071-22 (or a superseding version) or any other software update TSBs apply to your specific vehicle.
2. Scan for all DTCs. Note any other codes that appear with P2100, especially P2107, as this combination strongly points towards the TSB-related software fix.
3. Perform a thorough visual inspection of the throttle body connector and its wiring harness. Look for loose connections, corrosion, or any signs of physical damage, paying special attention to areas near the exhaust.
4. Using a multimeter, check for the correct voltage and ground signals at the throttle body connector according to the vehicle's service manual.
5. If you have a bi-directional scan tool, perform a throttle plate sweep test to command the motor to open and close. If it fails to respond, the throttle body is likely faulty.
6. If wiring and connectors are good and a software update does not resolve the issue, replace the throttle body assembly.
7. After replacement, perform the ETC relearn procedure. This can often be done without a scan tool by turning the ignition on (engine off) for 10 seconds, then slowly pressing the gas pedal to the floor and releasing it slowly, then turning the ignition off for 10 seconds before starting the engine. This allows the PCM to learn the new throttle's closed and open positions.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Electronic Throttle Body Assembly (OEM #68428448AB) — This is the most frequent cause of P2100. The internal electric motor fails, causing the open circuit fault. It is replaced as a complete unit. This part number supersedes 68428448AA.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Dorman, Standard Motor Products, Hitachi
  OEM price range: $350-$470
  Aftermarket price range: $250-$400

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P2107 — This code for 'Electronic Throttle Control Module Processor' often appears with P2100. TSB #18-071-22 lists both codes as being resolved by a PCM software update, indicating they are closely related within the system's self-diagnostics.
• P2101 — P2101 indicates a performance or range issue with the throttle motor, whereas P2100 indicates an open circuit. They can be triggered by the same root cause, such as a failing throttle body.
• P2110 — This code, 'Throttle Actuator Control System - Forced Limited RPM,' is a direct result of the fault detected by P2100. It confirms the PCM has intentionally placed the vehicle in limp mode as a safety measure.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 18-071-22: (For the 2022 Jeep Gladiator) Titled 'Flash: Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Updates', this TSB involves reprogramming the PCM with the latest software to address DTCs P2100 and P2107. This has also been released as a Rapid Service Update (RSU).
• 1814122: This appears to be an internal or incorrectly formatted number. The most relevant and verifiable TSB for this issue on the 2022 Wrangler/Gladiator platform is related to PCM software updates like 18-071-22.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination may occur, with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P2100 - Electronic Throttle Control Motor Circuit being found. This is a known issue being investigated by engineering, as noted in some dealer communications.
• For the related 2022 Jeep Gladiator with the 3.6L engine, TSB #18-071-22 was issued to fix P2100 and P2107 with a PCM software update, suggesting a similar fix may apply to the Wrangler.
• Real-world owner experiences on forums like JLWranglerForums.com and JeepGladiatorForum.com confirm that this P2100 code, limp mode, and subsequent throttle body replacement can occur at extremely low mileage, sometimes under 500 miles.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• ETC Motor Circuit Voltage Test at PCM Connector — expected: Using a 12-volt test light connected to ground, probing the (K124) ETC Motor (+) circuit or the (K126) ETC Motor (-) circuit should NOT illuminate the test light.. Failure: If the test light illuminates brightly when probing either circuit, it indicates a short to battery voltage on that circuit.
• Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) Voltage at Connector — expected: Voltage should sweep smoothly from approximately 0.5V at closed throttle to 4.5V at wide-open throttle when the throttle plate is moved manually (with ignition on, engine off).. Failure: Voltage that is stuck, jumps erratically, or does not change indicates a faulty sensor within the throttle body assembly.
• Resistance of Throttle Actuator Motor — expected: Check for specified resistance between the two motor control pins on the throttle body itself. A specific ohm value is not widely published, but it should not be an open or short circuit.. Failure: Infinite resistance (OL) indicates an open circuit within the motor, confirming a failed throttle body.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH 2 or other professional bi-directional scanner: Actuation Test > Throttle Position (or ETCS Test / Butterfly Valve Test) — This command allows a technician to directly order the throttle plate to move from 0% to 100%. If the plate does not move or makes no sound, and the fuse/wiring are confirmed good, it definitively proves the throttle body motor has failed.
• wiTECH 2 or other professional scanner: Service Functions > ETC Relearn (Throttle Body Adaptation) — This is a mandatory step after replacing the throttle body. It teaches the PCM the new closed, open, and partial positions of the new throttle plate to ensure correct idle and throttle response.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Throttle Body Connector — The 6-pin electrical connector located directly on the electronic throttle body at the front of the intake manifold.. This is the primary connection point for the throttle motor and position sensors. A loose connection, corrosion, or damaged pins here will directly cause a P2100 code.
• G905A / G906A / G906B — These are primary ground points for the dash and instrument panel harness, located in the driver and passenger footwell areas, behind the kick panels.. While not a direct engine ground, the PCM and its related sensor circuits rely on clean grounds throughout the vehicle. A fault in a major body or dash ground can introduce electrical noise or voltage drops that can affect sensitive circuits like the ETC.
• Engine Bay Ground Points — Multiple ground studs are located in the engine bay. On the driver's side, a key ground is near the brake booster. On the passenger side, a set of three grounds is located near the battery, with another farther forward toward the air box.. The PCM and engine sensor harness rely on these main grounding points. A loose or corroded ground connection at these locations can cause a variety of engine control issues, including faults in the ETC system.
• (K124) ETC Motor (+) and (K126) ETC Motor (-) — These are the circuit identifiers for the two wires that control the throttle motor, running between the PCM harness connector and the throttle body connector.. P2100 specifically refers to an open in one of these two circuits. A technician would use these identifiers from a wiring diagram to test for continuity, shorts to ground, or shorts to voltage between the PCM and the throttle body.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 68428448AA → 68428448AB — Part revision by the manufacturer, likely to improve reliability or address known failure modes.
  Heads up: The new part number (68428448AB) is the correct and direct replacement for the original. There are no known incompatibility issues.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2022 (specifically vehicles built on or before March 25, 2022): Vehicles within this build range equipped with the 3.6L engine may have a PCM software version that is prone to setting P2100 and P2107. TSB 18-071-22 was released to update the software and correct this condition.