Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) System Description: Notes
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Pontiac G5 and 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The engine control module (ECM) is the control center for the throttle actuator control (TAC) system. The ECM determines the driver's intent based on input form the accelerator pedal position sensors, then calculates the appropriate throttle response based on the throttle position sensors. The ECM achieves throttle positioning by providing a pulse width modulated voltage to the throttle actuator motor. The throttle blade is spring loaded in both directions, and the default position is slightly open.