AutoCodes – Toyota – P0120 2003 Toyota Highlander

P0120 2003 Toyota Highlander Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction

Quick Answer

The throttle position sensor (TPS) responds to the accelerator pedal movement. Common causes include Faulty Throttle Position Sensor, Throttle Position Sensor circuit is open or shorted, Throttle Position Sensor poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0120 2003 Toyota Highlander indicates Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Throttle Position Sensor, Throttle Position Sensor circuit is open or shorted, Throttle Position Sensor poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 7,103

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0120 2003 Toyota Highlander Description

The throttle position sensor (TPS) responds to the accelerator pedal movement. This sensor is a kind of potentiometer which transforms the throttle position into output voltage, and emits the voltage signal to the Engine Control Module (ECM). In addition, the sensor detects the opening and closing speed of the throttle valve and feeds the voltage signal to the ECM.
Idle position of the throttle valve is determined by the ECM receiving the signal from the throttle position sensor. This sensor controls engine operation such as fuel cut. On the other hand, the Wide open and closed throttle position switch, which is built into the throttle position sensor unit, is not used for engine control.

OBDII Code P0120 2003 Toyota Highlander - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — P0120 2003 Toyota Highlander Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0120 2003 Toyota Highlander?

Faulty Throttle Position Sensor
Throttle Position Sensor circuit is open or shorted
Throttle Position Sensor poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0120 2003 Toyota Highlander?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

Very common problem with Toyota models. Before replacing any parts, try cleaning the throttle body and reset the light. If the codes come back, then it will necessary to replaced the throttle position sensor (TPS). Most auto parts sell the TPS for around $60.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0120 2003 Toyota Highlander code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0120 2003 Toyota Highlander code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0120 2003 Toyota Highlander code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0120 2003 Toyota Highlander Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0120 in a 2003 Toyota Highlander?

- Common symptoms include issues with acceleration, rough idling, stalling, and a decrease in fuel efficiency.

2. What does the OBDII code P0120 for a 2003 Toyota Highlander indicate?

- The code P0120 indicates a malfunction in the throttle pedal position sensor/switch 'A' circuit.

3. What are the possible causes of the throttle pedal position sensor/switch 'A' circuit malfunction in a 2003 Toyota Highlander?

- Possible causes include a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or a problem with the throttle body.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0120 in my 2003 Toyota Highlander?

- Diagnose the issue by checking the throttle position sensor's wiring and connectors, testing the sensor's resistance, and inspecting the throttle body for any damage.

5. Can I drive my 2003 Toyota Highlander with OBDII code P0120?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with code P0120 as it can lead to performance issues and potential safety hazards.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0120 in my 2003 Toyota Highlander?

- Repair options include replacing the throttle position sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or cleaning and inspecting the throttle body.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code P0120 in my 2003 Toyota Highlander make the issue go away?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but it will not fix the underlying issue causing the malfunction.

8. Is it possible to prevent OBDII code P0120 from occurring in my 2003 Toyota Highlander?

- Regular maintenance, such as keeping the throttle body clean and checking for wiring damage, can help prevent the occurrence of code P0120.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0120 in a 2003 Toyota Highlander?

- The cost of repairs can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0120 in a 2003 Toyota Highlander?

- Depending on your skill level and access to tools, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address the issue by replacing the throttle position sensor or checking and repairing wiring themselves.