Code Definition

P1173 — Throttle Actuation Potentiometer Sign. 2 Signal Too High

System: Powertrain  |  Type: Manufacturer-Specific  |  Make: Volkswagen

About P1173

P1173 is a manufacturer-specific powertrain diagnostic trouble code recorded for Volkswagen vehicles. It belongs to the P-prefix family of codes, which covers engine, transmission, emissions, or fuel-system faults.

When P1173 is stored, the module has detected a signal or supply voltage higher than the expected operating range.

Scanning & clearing: A generic OBD-II scan tool will usually read and clear powertrain (P) codes. For live data, freeze-frame capture, and bi-directional tests you may need a more capable scan tool that supports the vehicle's ECM protocol.

P1173 is a manufacturer-specific code. The same code string on a different make may have a different meaning. Always confirm the code's definition against the vehicle's service information for the specific make and model under test.

Code Information

The electronic throttle body contains two throttle position potentiometers which report the angle of the throttle plate to the Engine Control Module (ECM), each fed by a 5V reference and a sensor ground. The wiper of potentiometer 2 produces a voltage that always stays inside a defined window and never rises to the full reference value, even at the wide open throttle stop, so that the ECM can distinguish a genuine wide open throttle signal from a circuit fault. DTC P1173 is set when the ECM sees the potentiometer 2 signal voltage rise above its highest plausible value, typically above about 4....

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