AutoCodesMitsubishi – P0121 Mitsubishi

P0121 Mitsubishi Code - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Range/Performance

Quick Answer

The throttle position sensor (TPS) responds to the accelerator pedal movement. Common causes include Faulty throttle position sensor, Throttle position sensor harness is open or shorted, Throttle position sensor circuit 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
P0121 Mitsubishi indicates Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Range/Performance.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty throttle position sensor, Throttle position sensor harness is open or shorted, Throttle position sensor circuit 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 18,854
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P0121 Mitsubishi 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 P0121 Mitsubishi - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com
P0121 Mitsubishi Code - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Range/Performance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0121 Mitsubishi?

  • Faulty throttle position sensor
  • Throttle position sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Throttle position sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0121 Mitsubishi?

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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0121 Mitsubishi 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 P0121 Mitsubishi code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0121 Mitsubishi code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0121 Mitsubishi code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P0121 Mitsubishi Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0121 mean for a Mitsubishi vehicle?

P0121 indicates a problem with the Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor "A" circuit, where the sensor's readings are outside the expected range or performance parameters.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P0121 code in a Mitsubishi?

Symptoms may include poor acceleration, rough idling, engine stalling, reduced power mode (limp mode), and an illuminated Check Engine Light.

3. What causes the P0121 code in a Mitsubishi?

Common causes include a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a dirty throttle body, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

4. Can a dirty throttle body trigger the P0121 code?

Yes, a buildup of dirt or carbon in the throttle body can interfere with sensor readings and trigger the P0121 code.

5. How do I diagnose the P0121 code in my Mitsubishi?

Start by checking the throttle position sensor and its wiring for damage. Clean the throttle body, and use a scan tool to monitor sensor readings for inconsistencies.

6. Can I continue driving my Mitsubishi with the P0121 code?

It’s not recommended, as the issue can cause erratic engine behavior, reduced power, or stalling, which may be unsafe in certain situations.

7. How much does it cost to fix the P0121 code in a Mitsubishi?

Repairs can range from $100 to $500, depending on whether the throttle position sensor, wiring, or throttle body needs replacement or cleaning.

8. Is the P0121 code related to the accelerator pedal sensor?

Yes, the code can sometimes be linked to the accelerator pedal position sensor if it’s providing conflicting data to the ECM.

9. Can a bad battery cause the P0121 code in a Mitsubishi?

While rare, voltage irregularities from a weak or failing battery can sometimes cause sensor-related codes like P0121.

10. How can I prevent the P0121 code from occurring in the future?

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the throttle body, inspecting wiring, and ensuring proper sensor function, can help prevent this code.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0121 Mitsubishi OBDII Code

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play