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.
Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) information ECM-901E
Condition
The engine control module (ECM) performs a number of internal tests to check that the processor, software and memory are operating properly. If any of these tests register a fault, the diagnostic trouble code is generated.
Substitute Value
Fuel cut-off that follows accelerator pedal position.
Fuel cut-off that follows accelerator pedal position. Engine speed is determined by gas pedal position sensor position and engine speed is maximized to about 5000 RPM.
This reconfiguration can cause the engine to idle very unevenly since the engine control module (ECM) regulates engine speed by cutting of the fuel to the cylinders individually. Do not confuse this reconfiguration (engine behavior) with an actual driveability problem that was present before reconfiguration.
Closing of throttle during braking.
The accelerator pedal position is ignored when the brake pedal is depressed.
Throttle follows accelerator pedal position.
The throttle and accelerator pedal are used as if they were mechanically connected. This reconfiguration is always followed by fuel cut-off.
Cruise control off.
Cruise control off during entire operating cycle in which fault was detected. If the fault is no longer present, the function is available the next time the car is started.
For upgraded software, released in 2006 or later, adjustments have been made to substitute values. Cruise control will not be operable and the throttle will follow the accelerator pedal position during the operating cycles in which the fault is active.
See Identifying upgraded software ECM/ETM
Possible Source
- defective engine control module (ECM)
- This diagnostic trouble code is generated in combination with other trouble codes. Information on the possible root cause is described.
See Information about combined diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Fault symptom[s]
- the accelerator pedal (AP) is ignored when braking
- the cruise control cannot be activated
- uneven idle
- jerks during engine braking.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra 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.