P1515

Electronic Throttle Control Module Performance

Car Fault Codes Chevrolet Fuel & air

Can you still drive? With care, short trips only

Who can fix it? Needs a workshop

Typical repair time 30 minutes – 2 hours

Typical cost SAR 100 to 2,500

What it means

This is a Chevrolet (GM) manufacturer-specific code, and the same number can mean something different on other makes. The control module noticed a difference between the throttle opening it commanded and the actual opening measured by the sensors. The throttle plate is often coated with carbon or hard for its motor to move, and the system goes into reduced power mode.

Models covered: Chevrolet (GM) models with electronic throttle control, mainly around 1997–2006.

Symptoms4

Reduced engine power with a warning message.
Low idle or stalling when stopping in some cases.
Slow or uneven acceleration.
Check engine light on.

Possible causes5

Carbon buildup around the throttle plate restricting movement.
Worn gears or motor in the electronic throttle body.
A poor throttle motor connector or wiring.
Low battery voltage or a weak ground while running.
A fault in the throttle actuator control (TAC) module or engine computer (less common).

How to diagnose5

Read the codes and freeze frame to compare commanded and actual opening.
With the engine off, inspect the throttle plate for carbon or sticking.
Watch commanded and actual throttle position on a scan tool and confirm they match quickly.
Check battery voltage, grounds and the throttle motor connector.
If the throttle is clean and wiring is good but the mismatch remains, the throttle body or module is likely faulty.

How to fix5

Clean the throttle body with a suitable cleaner without forcing the plate.
Repair the connector, wiring or weak ground.
Fix any battery or charging problem.
Replace the throttle body if its motor or gears are worn, then perform the relearn.
Clear the codes, test drive and confirm the code does not return.

Repair cost

0–500

500–2,000

2,000–5,000

5,000+

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

Cleaning and connector repairs keep the cost low, while a throttle body or control module replacement raises it significantly.

Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions

Is cleaning the throttle enough?

Often carbon is what slows the plate, so cleaning helps. If the code returns after cleaning, check the throttle motor and connectors.

How does P1515 differ from P1516?

Both concern a gap between commanded and actual opening. P1516 relates to the throttle actuator control module checking the actuator position itself, while P1515 reflects system performance as seen by the engine computer. Diagnosis is similar.

What is the generic equivalent?

Newer models set generic codes such as P2101 or P2119 for throttle actuator performance problems.

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This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.

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