Expert: Roland Finston - 6/14/2011

Question
Good day.  While driving to work yesterday the check engine light, the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light [the red one next to the CEL that looks like two backward parentheses with a lightning bolt between], and the BAS/ESP Light were on. The ETC was flashing, which according to the owner's manual means something needs immediate service. The car ran in a limp mode as if it was about to stall.  I received error codes P0129 and P061A.  Can you tell me what these codes mean and what the problem and solution may be to fix it?  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Yusef,
The 0129 means that the voltage shown on the intake manifold's absolute pressure sensor is too low. This might be due either to a problem with the 5v supply wire that operates the sensor or the signal wire which are yellow/pink and violet/brown, respectively, or the sensor itself could have failed. Let me know if you want details as to checking it out with a volt-ohm meter. It may also be the case that one of the vacuum hoses has come loose that is attached to the intake manifold. The symptoms you describe are consistent with this sensor or the intake's vacuum itself being compromised. It should not be a major repair cost problem.
The 016A means that the engine is not responding to your request for power, but it is suggested that any problems with the manifold absolute sensor be corrected first as that may be the cause of this code. If you ask a follow-up question tell me the year and engine size (L). I can send you 6 pages about the measurements to make as an attachment to an email, but I need to know your email address. So if you want those let me know your email address but use the 'private' option in the follow-up question choices.
Roland
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