AutoCodes – GMC – P0122 2016 GMC Sierra

P0122 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Throttle Position Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Throttle Body Assembly contains a contact-less inductive throttle position sensing element that is managed by a customized integrated circuit. Common causes include Faulty Throttle Body Assembly, Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted, Throttle Body Assembly 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: P0122 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Throttle Position Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Throttle Body Assembly, Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted, Throttle Body Assembly 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.

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Code Popularity 253

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 May 20, 2022

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0122 2016 GMC Sierra Description

The Throttle Body Assembly contains a contact-less inductive throttle position sensing element that is managed by a customized integrated circuit. The throttle position sensor is mounted within the throttle body assembly and is not serviceable. The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies the throttle body with a 5 V reference circuit, a low reference circuit. The asynchronous signal means communication is only going from the throttle body to the ECM. The throttle body cannot receive data from the ECM over the signal/serial data circuit. The throttle position sensor provides a signal voltage that changes relative to throttle blade angle. The throttle position sensor information is transmitted between the throttle body and the ECM on the signal/serial data circuit. The ECM decodes the serial data signal and is used as voltages for throttle position sensor 1 and 2. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects the throttle position sensor 1 signal voltage is less than 0.32 V for greater than 1 s.

OBDII Code P0122 2016 GMC Sierra - Throttle Position Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0122 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Throttle Position Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0122 2016 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Throttle Body Assembly
Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted
Throttle Body Assembly circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0122 2016 GMC Sierra?

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

User Submitted Video

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0122 2016 GMC Sierra 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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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 P0122 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0122 mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

P0122 indicates that the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) 1 is reporting a voltage lower than the expected range to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0122 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

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

3. What causes the P0122 code in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Causes can include a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged or corroded wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning PCM, or issues with the sensorâ€™s ground or voltage supply.

4. Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with the P0122 code?

Driving with P0122 is not recommended, as it can cause unsafe driving conditions due to reduced engine power mode and poor throttle response.

5. How do I diagnose the P0122 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the TPS and its wiring for damage or corrosion, test the sensorâ€™s voltage output with a multimeter, and check for proper ground and 5-volt reference signals.

6. How is the P0122 code fixed on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may involve replacing the throttle position sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, cleaning corroded terminals, or reprogramming the PCM if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to fix a P0122 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The cost can range from $50 to $300 or more, depending on whether the issue is a simple wiring repair or requires replacing the TPS or PCM.

8. Can a dirty throttle body cause the P0122 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Yes, a dirty throttle body can sometimes cause issues with sensor readings, but itâ€™s more likely due to electrical faults or a failing sensor.

9. Will clearing the code fix the P0122 issue on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Clearing the code will turn off the check engine light temporarily, but the issue will likely return unless the root cause is addressed.

10. Is the P0122 code related to the accelerator pedal position sensor in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

While P0122 specifically involves the throttle position sensor, problems with the accelerator pedal position sensor can sometimes contribute to similar symptoms and should be checked if the issue persists.