AutoCodes – Toyota – P0120 2006 Toyota Prius

P0120 2006 Toyota Prius 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 2006 Toyota Prius 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 4,304
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P0120 2006 Toyota Prius 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 2006 Toyota Prius - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
P0120 2006 Toyota Prius Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0120 2006 Toyota Prius?

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

How to Fix the DTC P0120 2006 Toyota Prius?

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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0120 2006 Toyota Prius 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 2006 Toyota Prius code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0120 2006 Toyota Prius 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 2006 Toyota Prius Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0120 in a 2006 Toyota Prius?

- Common symptoms include issues with acceleration, decreased engine power, rough idling, and potential stalling of the vehicle.

2. What does the OBDII code P0120 for a 2006 Toyota Prius indicate?

- The code P0120 indicates a Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction in the vehicle.

3. What are the possible causes of the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction in a 2006 Toyota Prius?

- Possible causes include a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, issues with the throttle body, or a faulty ECM (Engine Control Module).

4. How can I diagnose the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction in my 2006 Toyota Prius?

- Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the fault code, inspecting the throttle position sensor and related components, and conducting tests to determine the exact cause of the issue.

5. Can I drive my 2006 Toyota Prius with the OBDII code P0120 active?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the code P0120 active, as it can lead to poor performance, potential safety hazards, and further damage to the engine.

6. How can I repair the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction in my 2006 Toyota Prius?

- Repair options include replacing the throttle position sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, cleaning the throttle body, or reprogramming the ECM.

7. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P0120 in a 2006 Toyota Prius without fixing the underlying issue?

- Resetting the code without addressing the underlying issue will only temporarily clear the error code, as it will likely reappear once the problem is detected again by the vehicle's system.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction in a 2006 Toyota Prius?

- Depending on the individual's mechanical skills and access to tools, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to diagnose and repair this issue. However, it is recommended to seek professional help for accurate diagnosis and proper repair.

9. How much does it cost to repair the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction in a 2006 Toyota Prius?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, the labor rates in your area, and whether you choose to use OEM or aftermarket parts. It is advisable to get quotes from different mechanics or repair shops.

10. Are there any preventive measures to avoid the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction in a 2006 Toyota Prius?

- Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the throttle body, inspecting wiring for damage, and monitoring for any unusual symptoms, can help prevent the occurrence of this malfunction.

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