AutoCodes – Saturn – P0122 Saturn

P0122 Saturn Code - Throttle Position Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Throttle Pedal Position (TPP) 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: P0122 Saturn indicates Throttle Position Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage.
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.

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Code Popularity 16,591

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 Jun 14, 2020

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

The Throttle Pedal Position (TPP) 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 P0122 Saturn - Throttle Position Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0122 Saturn Code - Throttle Position Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0122 Saturn?

Faulty throttle position sensor
Throttle position sensor harness is open or shorted
Throttle position sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0122 Saturn?

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 P0122 Saturn 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 Saturn Code

What does the OBDII code P0122 mean for a Saturn?

P0122 indicates that the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) 1 circuit is reporting a voltage lower than expected by the vehicle's ECM.

What are the common symptoms of code P0122 in a Saturn?

Symptoms include poor acceleration, rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, reduced fuel efficiency, and possibly triggering the check engine light.

What causes the P0122 code to appear in a Saturn?

Common causes include a faulty TPS, damaged wiring or connectors in the TPS circuit, a short to ground, or an issue with the ECM.

How can I diagnose the P0122 code in a Saturn?

Use an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, then inspect the TPS, wiring, and connectors for damage or corrosion. Test the TPS voltage with a multimeter to ensure proper operation.

Can I drive my Saturn with the P0122 code?

Driving with this code is not recommended as it can cause performance issues and may lead to unsafe driving conditions due to unpredictable throttle response.

How do I fix the P0122 code in a Saturn?

Repairs may involve replacing the TPS, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning connectors, or updating/replacing the ECM if necessary.

What tools do I need to fix the P0122 code in a Saturn?

You may need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter, basic hand tools, and possibly electrical contact cleaner for cleaning connections.

How much does it cost to repair the P0122 code in a Saturn?

Repair costs vary, but replacing a TPS can range from $50 to $250, while wiring repairs or ECM replacement may be more expensive depending on labor and parts.

Can a dirty throttle body cause the P0122 code in a Saturn?

A dirty throttle body is unlikely to directly cause P0122, but it can affect TPS readings and throttle performance, potentially contributing to related issues.

What happens if I ignore the P0122 code in my Saturn?

Ignoring this code can lead to worsening performance issues, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential damage to other engine components over time.