P0120 2016 Toyota RAV4 Code - Throttle / Pedal Position Sensor / Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
Quick Answer
The throttle position sensor is mounted on the throttle with motor body assembly and detects the opening angle of the throttle valve. Common causes include Faulty Throttle Position Sensor (built into Throttle Body Assembly), 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 2016 Toyota RAV4 indicates Throttle / Pedal Position Sensor / Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Throttle Position Sensor (built into Throttle Body Assembly), 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.
Code P0120 2016 Toyota RAV4 Description
As the valve closes, the sensor output voltage decreases and as the valve opens, the sensor output voltage increases. The Engine Control Module (ECM) calculates the throttle valve opening angle according to these signals and controls the throttle actuator in response to driver inputs. These signals are also used in calculations such as air-fuel ratio correction, power increase correction, and fuel-cut control.
The ECM uses the throttle position sensor to monitor the throttle valve opening angle. There are several checks that the ECM performs to confirm the proper operation of the throttle position sensor.
This sensor transmits two signals, if the output voltage difference between the two signals deviates from the normal operating range, the ECM interprets this as a malfunction in the throttle position sensor. The ECM illuminates the MIL and stores the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0120 2016 Toyota RAV4?
- Faulty Throttle Position Sensor (built into Throttle Body Assembly)
- Throttle Position Sensor circuit is open or shorted
- Throttle Position Sensor poor electrical connection
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
How to Fix the DTC P0120 2016 Toyota RAV4?
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
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What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the P0120 2016 Toyota RAV4 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about P0120 2016 Toyota RAV4 Code
1. What does OBDII code P0120 mean on a 2016 Toyota RAV4?
Code P0120 indicates a malfunction in the Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' circuit, which helps monitor the position of the accelerator pedal or throttle.
2. What are the symptoms of code P0120 in a 2016 Toyota RAV4?
Common symptoms include poor acceleration, reduced engine power (limp mode), erratic throttle response, and the check engine light being illuminated.
3. What causes the P0120 code to appear on a 2016 Toyota RAV4?
Possible causes include a faulty throttle position sensor (TPS), damaged wiring or connectors in the TPS circuit, a malfunctioning accelerator pedal position sensor, or a failing engine control module (ECM).
4. Can I drive my 2016 Toyota RAV4 with the P0120 code?
It’s not recommended to drive with this code, as it can lead to reduced engine performance or unsafe driving conditions. Have the issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.
5. How is code P0120 diagnosed on a 2016 Toyota RAV4?
A technician will use an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspect the wiring and connectors for damage, test the throttle position sensor and accelerator pedal position sensor, and check for proper voltage and signal readings.
6. How do I fix the P0120 code on my 2016 Toyota RAV4?
Repairs may include replacing the throttle position sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, recalibrating the throttle system, or, in rare cases, replacing the ECM.
7. How much does it cost to fix a P0120 code on a 2016 Toyota RAV4?
Repair costs vary but typically range from $100 to $400, depending on whether the issue lies with the sensor, wiring, or ECM.
8. Can a dirty throttle body cause the P0120 code on a 2016 Toyota RAV4?
While uncommon, a dirty throttle body can potentially cause sensor misreadings or interfere with throttle operation, indirectly triggering the P0120 code.
9. Do I need to replace the throttle body to fix code P0120 on my 2016 Toyota RAV4?
Not necessarily. The issue might only require replacing the throttle position sensor or repairing wiring. The throttle body typically only needs replacement if it’s damaged.
10. Will clearing the P0120 code with an OBDII scanner fix the problem?
Clearing the code will turn off the check engine light temporarily, but the underlying issue must be resolved, or the code will likely return.
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