How to Fix Diagnostic Code P1524

🚨 Diagnostic Profile

Vehicle Make: Chrysler

Fault Description: TP Sensor Learned CI Throttle Angle Out Of Range

This fault indicates that the learned closed-throttle (CI) angle stored by the powertrain control module falls outside its acceptable range. It is commonly associated with electronic throttle body contamination, a throttle position sensor or throttle body fault, or a throttle relearn that was not completed correctly. Confirm the exact model year, engine, and active DTCs before proceeding, as Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep applications use several different electronic throttle control (ETC) module strategies depending on platform and powertrain.

🚨 Repair Difficulty Tier

Tier: [Intermediate]

Basic inspection and throttle body cleaning are accessible to a DIY user with a scan tool. Relearn procedures, electrical verification, and any component replacement require a capable bi-directional scan tool and familiarity with electronic throttle control systems.

šŸ› ļø Resolution Steps

Step 1: Preliminary Inspection

  • Verify battery voltage is at a stable, fully-charged state (typically 12.4V–12.6V key-off, rising to 13.5V–14.7V with engine running) and inspect battery terminals and chassis/engine grounds for corrosion or looseness, as low or unstable voltage can cause false TPS learn faults.
  • Inspect the throttle body bore and throttle plate for carbon buildup, oil residue, or debris, paying close attention to the edge of the throttle plate where it seats against the bore at idle.
  • Check the throttle body electrical connector and harness for corrosion, spread/pushed-out terminals, or damaged insulation at the throttle body itself and along the harness routing to the PCM.
  • Inspect the air intake tube, clamps, and intake boots between the air filter housing and throttle body for cracks, unseated clamps, or vacuum leaks that could affect airflow readings used in the closed-throttle learn.
  • Confirm the accelerator pedal assembly (integrated pedal position sensor on drive-by-wire systems) moves freely through its full range without binding, sticking, or electrical intermittency.
  • Check for any related stored or pending DTCs, such as P0120-P0124 (TPS circuit codes), P2101-P2110 (throttle actuator control codes), or accelerator pedal position sensor codes, and record freeze frame data for conditions present when the fault set.

Step 2: Diagnostic Verification

  • Connect a compatible OBD-II scan tool capable of bi-directional control and read live data for throttle position sensor values at both the closed-throttle stop and through full throttle travel.
  • Compare commanded throttle angle (PCM output) against actual throttle angle (TPS feedback) during key-on/engine-off, idle, and part-throttle conditions; a persistent mismatch points toward a mechanical binding issue or sensor drift rather than a wiring fault.
  • Verify sensor reference voltage (typically 5V supplied by the PCM) at the throttle body connector using a digital multimeter back-probed against a known good ground, with the ignition on and engine off.
  • Check for excessive voltage drop or open/high-resistance conditions on the throttle position sensor signal, ground, and reference circuits using a digital multimeter in series or via voltage-drop testing at the connector, rather than assuming a specific wire color or pin number without the correct year/engine-specific wiring diagram.
  • Confirm the throttle body is not binding or sticking by observing plate movement smoothly through its full range during a scan tool-commanded throttle actuation test, listening and watching for hesitation or notchy movement.

Step 3: Resolution & Reset Process

  • Clean the throttle body bore and plate using an approved throttle body/electronic throttle safe cleaner (avoid standard carb cleaner, which can damage the throttle plate coating and bore seals), following manufacturer precautions for electronic throttle components.
  • Reconnect all disconnected components, verify connector locks are fully seated, and clear the stored DTCs using the scan tool.
  • Perform the throttle body/TPS minimum airflow or closed-throttle relearn procedure using a capable scan tool; on most Chrysler ETC-equipped vehicles this involves a specific key-cycle and idle-stabilization sequence (commonly: ignition on without starting for a specified period, then starting and allowing idle to stabilize in Park/Neutral with accessories off) — follow the exact OEM procedure for the specific model year and engine as published in the factory service information, since the sequence varies by platform (e.g., Jeep/Ram vs. minivan/car lines).
  • Cycle the ignition off and on as required by the specific relearn procedure, then run the engine to completion of the idle learn sequence, ensuring the vehicle is fully warmed to operating temperature if specified.
  • Road test the vehicle under varying load and throttle conditions, and confirm no return of the fault along with stable idle, smooth tip-in, and correct cruise throttle response.
  • If the fault returns after cleaning and relearn, replace the throttle body assembly (most Chrysler ETC throttle bodies are serviced as a complete unit with the TPS integrated and non-separately serviceable) as verified by live data showing sensor drift, non-linear output, or failure to hold a stable closed-throttle angle.

šŸ“¦ Parts, Labor, and Budget Estimates

Required Components/Software:

  • Electronic throttle body-safe cleaner (non-chlorinated, O2-sensor and throttle-coating safe formula)
  • Replacement electronic throttle body assembly (integrated TPS), OEM or OEM-equivalent part specific to the exact year/engine — verify exact part number via VIN lookup at time of repair
  • OEM-level or professional-grade bi-directional scan tool with Chrysler ETC relearn capability (e.g., factory-level diagnostic software or an aftermarket tool with verified Chrysler bi-directional throttle relearn function)
  • Intake boot/clamp or throttle body gasket, if disturbed or degraded during service

Average Component Price:

  • Throttle body cleaner: $8–$15 per can
  • Throttle body assembly (OEM, varies significantly by engine/platform): $180–$450
  • Throttle body assembly (aftermarket/remanufactured): $120–$280
  • Throttle body gasket/seal (if applicable): $8–$25
  • Dealer-level diagnostic/programming session (if required for relearn not achievable with aftermarket tool): $100–$180 flat fee or 1.0 hour shop labor

Estimated Labor Hours:

  • Inspection and diagnosis (including scan data review and electrical verification): 0.5–1.0 hour
  • Throttle body cleaning and relearn procedure: 0.5–1.0 hour
  • Throttle body replacement, if required (includes relearn): 0.7–1.3 hours depending on engine accessibility and platform

Total estimated out-of-pocket cost for a cleaning-and-relearn resolution typically ranges $60–$150 in shop labor plus consumables. Total estimated cost if throttle body replacement is required typically ranges $250–$650 including parts and labor, varying by dealership versus independent shop rates and OEM versus aftermarket part selection.