CAT Engine 27713 Fault Code: Throttle Lock Set/Accel Switch : Voltage Above Normal
Throttle Lock Set/Accel Switch : Voltage Above Normal · ai-assisted, editor-reviewed · Last updated 2026-07-13
TL;DR
Code 27713 sets when both contacts of the throttle lock set/accel switch are seen open at the same time by the ECM. When this happens, the ECM logs the code and disables the throttle hold and throttle lock features so engine speed can only be controlled with the throttle pedal.
Medium severity. This code does not shut the engine down or create an immediate safety hazard on its own. The main impact is loss of throttle lock and throttle hold convenience features. Diagnose it within the shift since operators relying on set engine speed for PTO work or repetitive cycles will notice reduced control.
What does CAT Engine error code 27713 mean?
Fault code 27713 is triggered by the throttle lock set/accel switch circuit. This switch is a two-position momentary rocker used to set or bump up the desired engine speed when the throttle lock feature is active in Automatic or Manual mode.
The ECM watches the voltage state of both contacts in this switch. When it sees both contacts open at the same time, a state that should not occur during normal switch operation, it flags this as an above-normal voltage condition and logs code 27713.
Once the code sets, the ECM disables automatic control of engine speed through both the throttle hold feature and the throttle lock feature. The operator loses the ability to set and hold a desired engine speed with the switches, and the throttle pedal becomes the only way to control engine speed until the fault is corrected.
Common causes of 27713
- Harness or wiring abrasion, corrosion, or pinch points affecting the switch circuit
- Fault in the circuit for the throttle lock switch
- Fault in the throttle lock switch itself
- Problem in the circuit between the ECM and the throttle lock switch
- Open or short circuit in the wiring between the ECM and the switch
- Problem in the circuit for the throttle lock resume/decel switch
- Throttle lock resume/decel switch needs to be replaced
- Problem in the circuit between the ECM and the throttle lock resume/decel switch
- Faulty ECM needs to be replaced
How to troubleshoot CAT Engine 27713: first checks
- Inspect the wiring harness between the ECM and the throttle lock set/accel switch for abrasion, corrosion, or pinch points, paying attention to areas near moving parts or sharp edges
- Check all connectors in the throttle lock switch circuit and throttle lock resume/decel switch circuit for corrosion, loose pins, or moisture intrusion
- Operate the throttle lock switch and throttle lock set/accel switch through all positions and confirm proper mechanical feel and return, since a mechanically stuck or worn switch can cause both contacts to read open
- Check for open or short circuits in the wiring between the ECM and both the accel switch and the resume/decel switch using appropriate wiring diagrams
- If wiring and switches check out, consider that the ECM itself may be at fault, though this should be confirmed only after ruling out wiring and switch issues
How the code clears
No separate clearing step is listed. Correct the wiring, connector, or switch fault causing both contacts to read open, then confirm the throttle lock and throttle hold features return to normal operation. If the code was stored, verify with diagnostic software that it does not recur after the repair.
Frequently asked questions
What does CAT code 27713 mean?
It means the ECM detected both contacts of the throttle lock set/accel switch open at the same time, a condition it reads as voltage above normal. This disables the throttle hold and throttle lock features until the issue is fixed.
Can I still drive or operate the machine with code 27713 active?
Yes. The throttle pedal remains the primary means of controlling engine speed. You simply lose the ability to set and hold engine speed automatically through the throttle lock switch and accel switch.
What is the difference between throttle lock and throttle hold?
Throttle lock lets the operator set and maintain a desired engine speed using the throttle lock switch and set/accel switch, in either Automatic or Manual mode. Throttle hold is a related automatic engine speed control function that is also disabled when this code is active.
Is the throttle lock resume/decel switch related to this code?
Yes. CAT lists faults in the circuit for the throttle lock resume/decel switch, including wiring problems and the possibility that switch needing replacement, as possible causes tied to this code.
Will replacing the ECM fix code 27713?
It might, but only after wiring, connectors, and the switches themselves have been ruled out. CAT lists a faulty ECM as one possible cause, but it is listed alongside multiple wiring and switch causes that are more common and cheaper to check first.
Does code 27713 stop the engine or cause damage?
No. It only affects the throttle lock and throttle hold convenience features. It does not indicate an engine damage risk or require immediate shutdown.