GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor

DTC P0068: Throttle Body Airflow Performance

Circuit/System Description

The engine control module (ECM) compares actual airflow based on throttle position (TP) and manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor to a calculated airflow.

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • DTCs P0106, P0107, P0108, P0110, P0112, and P0113 are not set.
    • The engine is running.
    • The DTC runs continuously when the above conditions are met.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The ECM detects that the actual airflow rate is greater than the calculated airflow.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • DTC P0068 is a Type A DTC.
    • The ECM commands the TAC system to operate in a Reduced Engine Power mode.
    • Under certain conditions the control module commands the engine OFF.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

DTC P0068 is a Type A DTC.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Engine Controls Schematics

Connector End View Reference

    •  Engine Control Module Connector End Views
    •  Engine Controls Connector End Views

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

DTC Type Reference

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions

Scan Tool Reference

Engine Control Module Scan Tool Information

Circuit/System Verification

    Important: In extreme cold weather conditions ice may form in the vacuum source to the MAP sensor and may set a DTC. Inspect the MAP sensor and the vacuum source for ice, moisture, or other restrictions.

  1. Ignition ON, observe the MAP sensor pressure parameter and compare the reading on the scan tool to the barometric pressure table. Refer to Altitude Versus Barometric Pressure .
  2. If the MAP sensor pressure is not within the range specified for your altitude, refer to DTC P0107 or P0108 .
  3. Engine idling, observe the MAP Sensor parameter. The reading should be between 32-42 kPa.
  4. If the MAP sensor pressure is not within the specified range, refer to DTC P0107 or P0108 .
  5. Increase the engine speed slowly to 3,000 RPM, then back to idle while observing the scan tool MAF sensor g/s parameter. The scan tool MAF sensor g/s parameter should change smoothly and gradually as the engine speed is increased and returned to idle.
  6. If the scan tool MAF sensor g/s parameter does not change smoothly and gradually as the engine speed is increased and returned to idle refer to DTC P0102 or P0103 .
  7. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC to verify the DTC does not reset. You may also operate the vehicle within the conditions that you observed from the Freeze Frame/Failure Records data.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Verify none of the following conditions exist:
  2. • The air intake duct system for loose connecting clamps, cracks, or other damage
    • The air intake duct system for being collapsed or restricted possibly by a restricted air filter
    • A damaged throttle body blade or shaft
    • Splits, kinks, or improper connections at the vacuum hoses
    • Missing, restricted, or leaking exhaust components
    • Vacuum leaks at the intake manifold, throttle body, and injector O-rings
    If a condition exists, repair as necessary.
  3. If all conditions test normal, test the engine for a mechanical condition.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Throttle Body Assembly Replacement