Drive By Wire (DBW)

Drive By Wire = Electric motor controlling throttle blades. Gas pedal is a sensor, that feeds to a TAC Module (Throttle Actuator Control) The TAC module monitors the gas pedal sensor, then commands the throttle body motor to set the desired throttle setting. The TAC module also communicates with the PCM. Without this communication, the TAC module will not operate the throttle blade, and will cause codes to set in the PCM.

DBW was found on all Corvette's starting in 1997. Some higher end SUVs around 2001 started getting DBW. In 2003 all Pickup Trucks got DBW. In 2004 some Express Van got DBW, usually had AWD with traction control) Otherwise vans had mechanical throttle to 2006. 2007 all vans were DBW.

If you are getting a motor from a salvage yard, be sure to get the Gas Pedal Assembly, TAC Module, and harness that runs from gas pedal to TAC module. It's a short harness, with a rubber grommet where it passes through the firewall. The rest of the wiring is part of the engine harness.

Wiring Schematics - Typical 2004 C/K Pickup 4.8 / 5.3 / 6.0

DRIVE BY WIRE SYSTEM DIFFERENCES

  • Drive by wire (DBW) Started in 2000 For Trucks. It was used in the Corvette back in 1997.

  • 00-02 throttle body: two connectors, 2 pin on passenger side, 6 pin on driver’s side.

  • 03+ throttle body: 8 pin connectors on passenger side only

  • TAC module:

    99-02 all plastic (All Interchangeable)

    2003-2006 (2007 Classic) Plastic with metal mounting bracket (All Interchangeable)

Automotive electronic control module with connectors

TAC MODULE 99-02

Car engine control unit with connectors in a white background.

TAC MODULE 2003-2007

Car accelerator pedal assembly on a white background.

2003-05 Pedal

Black electronic control module with connectors
Black electronic control module with metal mounting brackets on white background.
Automotive wiring harness with connectors and protective tubing on a carpet.

Pedal Harness

Car accelerator pedal with electronic sensor

2006-07 Pedal (Classic Body Style Trucks)