Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Throttle Valve Control Module, Checking: Notes
Special tools and workshop equipment required
- Multimeter.
- Wiring diagram.
Test requirements
- The Motronic Engine Control Module (ECM) - J623- fuses OK.
- Battery voltage at least 12.5 volts.
- All electrical consumers such as, lights and rear window defroster, switched off.
- Vehicles with automatic transmission, shift selector lever into position "P" or "N".
- A/C switched off.
- Ground (GND) connections between engine/transmission/chassis OK.
- Throttle valve must not be damaged or dirty.
- Coolant Temperature at least 80° C.
Test procedure
-- Observe safety precautions. Refer to SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
-- Observe Clean Working Conditions. Refer to CLEAN WORKING CONDITIONS
-- Perform a preliminary check to verify the customers complaint. Refer to PRELIMINARY CHECK .
Start diagnosis
Function
Throttle valve operation occurs by an electric motor (Throttle Drive (for Electronic Power Control (EPC)) -G186-) in Throttle Valve Control Module - J338-. It is operated by Motronic Engine Control Module (ECM) -J623- according to specifications of Throttle Position (TP) Sensor -G79-/Kickdown Switch/Closed Throttle Switch -G185 -.
Components of Throttle Valve Control Module -J338-:
- Throttle Drive (for Electronic Power Control (EPC)) -G186-
- Throttle Drive Angle Sensor 1 (for Electronic Power Control (EPC)) -G187-
- Throttle Drive Angle Sensor 2 (for Electronic Power Control (EPC)) -G188-
Function test
-- Connect the scan tool.
-- Switch ignition on.
-- Using the scan tool, check the throttle valve position (absolute) at idle stop:
| Diagnostic text | Specified value | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Throttle valve position (absolute) | ||||
|
3.0 to 25.0% | |||
-- Slowly depress the accelerator pedal to Wide Open Throttle (WOT) stop while observing the percentage display. The percentage display must increase uniformly.
-- Using the scan tool, check the throttle valve position (absolute) at Wide Open Throttle (WOT) stop:
| Diagnostic text | Specified value | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Throttle valve position (absolute) | ||||
|
84.0 to 97.0% | |||
-- Switch ignition off.
If the specified values are not obtained:
-- Remove the Throttle Valve Control Module -J338 - far enough so that the electrical connector terminals are reached.
-- Disconnect the Throttle Valve Control Module -J338- electrical harness connector -arrow-.
Checking resistance
-- Using a multimeter, check the Throttle Drive (for Electronic Power Control (EPC)) -G186- at the Throttle Valve Control Module -J338- terminals 3 to 5 for resistance.
Specified value: 1.0 to 5.0 Ω (at 20° C)
If the specification was not obtained:
-- Replace the Throttle Valve Control Module - J338-.
If the specification was obtained:
-- Check the voltage supply of the Throttle Valve Control Module -J338- to the Motronic Engine Control Module (ECM) -J623-.
--.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
Rather have a pro handle this?
A certified mobile mechanic comes to your home or office. They bring the tools, you stay comfortable. No tow truck, no waiting room, no surprises.
No obligation. See pricing before you book.
