AutoCodes – BMW – P0122 BMW

P0122 BMW Code - Throttle Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Low Input

Quick Answer

The accelerator pedal position is monitored separately by 2 individual sensors. Common causes include Faulty Electromotive Throttle Actuator, Electromotive Throttle Actuator harness is open or shorted, Electromotive Throttle Actuator 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 BMW indicates Throttle Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Low Input.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Electromotive Throttle Actuator, Electromotive Throttle Actuator harness is open or shorted, Electromotive Throttle Actuator 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 17,321

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 Jul 15, 2020

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

The accelerator pedal position is monitored separately by 2 individual sensors. Two sensors are employed to provide redundancy, implement the monitoring function, and facilitate recognition of malfunctions. The sensors register accelerator-pedal travel as angular deflection, with data being transmitted directly to the engine-management control unit as analog linear voltage curves for the pedal angle. Overall pedal travel is mechanically expressed as 16° ±0.5°. Each change in the accelerator-pedal position is transmitted to the engine-management control unit with a maximum lag of 50 milliseconds. Sensor signals are transmitted in analog form. The engine-management control unit monitors the two input signals from the sensors and compares them for plausibility (factors such as mutual synchronicity, linearity, etc.). The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is detected when the voltage of the throttle valve sensor (1) is less than the lower limit. Lower limit: 0.21 V.

OBDII Code P0122 BMW - Throttle Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Low Input - AutoCodes.com — P0122 BMW Code - Throttle Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Low Input

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0122 BMW?

Faulty Electromotive Throttle Actuator
Electromotive Throttle Actuator harness is open or shorted
Electromotive Throttle Actuator circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0122 BMW?

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

BMW Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC): 101002

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0122 BMW 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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Need more information on how to fix the P0122 BMW code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0122 BMW 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 P0122 BMW Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0122 in a BMW related to the throttle position sensor/switch 'A' circuit low input?

The common symptoms include poor acceleration, stalling, rough idle, decreased fuel efficiency, and the vehicle going into limp mode.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0122 in a BMW?

The potential causes of code P0122 include a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the throttle position sensor circuit, or a problem with the engine control module (ECM).

3. How can I diagnose the throttle position sensor/switch 'A' circuit low input issue in my BMW?

You can diagnose the issue by using a scan tool to read the trouble code, testing the throttle position sensor for proper voltage output, and inspecting the wiring and connectors for any visible damage or corrosion.

4. Can I drive my BMW with OBDII code P0122 present?

It is not recommended to drive your BMW with code P0122 present, as it can lead to further damage to the vehicle and potential safety hazards. It is best to address the issue promptly.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P0122 in my BMW?

Repairing code P0122 may involve replacing the throttle position sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming the ECM. It is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.

6. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P0122 in a BMW on my own?

While you can clear the trouble code using a scan tool, it is important to address the underlying issue causing the code to prevent it from reoccurring. Simply clearing the code without fixing the problem will not solve the issue.

7. Will OBDII code P0122 cause permanent damage to my BMW if left untreated?

Leaving code P0122 untreated can potentially cause damage to other components of the vehicle over time, as it can lead to improper engine performance and drivability issues. It is best to address the code promptly to prevent further damage.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0122 in a BMW?

Depending on your level of automotive knowledge and experience, you may be able to address code P0122 yourself by following repair guides and using the necessary tools. However, for accurate diagnosis and proper repair, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional mechanic.

9. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0122 in a BMW?

The time required to repair code P0122 can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the complexity of the repair. It may take a few hours to a full day to diagnose and fix the problem, so it is advisable to plan accordingly.

10. Can extreme weather conditions affect OBDII code P0122 in a BMW?

Extreme weather conditions, such as extremely hot or cold temperatures, can potentially affect the performance of the throttle position sensor and trigger code P0122. It is important to keep the vehicle well-maintained and protected from harsh weather to prevent such issues.