AutoCodes – BMW – P0123 BMW

P0123 BMW Code - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit High

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: P0123 BMW indicates Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit High.
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 9,592

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 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 P0123 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) exceeds the upper limit. Upper limit: 4.75 V.

OBDII Code P0123 BMW - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P0123 BMW Code - Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0123 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 P0123 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): 101001

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0123 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.

Need more information about the P0123 BMW code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0123 BMW code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0123 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 P0123 BMW Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0123 in a BMW?

- Common symptoms include issues with acceleration, sudden loss of power, rough idling, and the vehicle going into limp mode.

2. What are the possible causes of the Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit High code in a BMW?

- Possible causes may include a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning electronic throttle control system, or a problem with the pedal position sensor.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0123 in my BMW?

- Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool to read the code, checking the throttle position sensor and pedal position sensor for proper operation, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the electronic throttle control system.

4. Can I continue driving my BMW with the P0123 code present?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with this code active, as it can lead to further damage to the engine or other components. It's best to address the issue promptly.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P0123 in my BMW?

- Repairing this code usually involves replacing the faulty throttle position sensor or pedal position sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and resetting the trouble code using a scan tool.

6. Are there any DIY tips for fixing the Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit High code in a BMW?

- While some individuals may attempt to replace the sensor themselves, it is recommended to have a professional mechanic diagnose and repair the issue to ensure proper installation and calibration.

7. What is the role of the throttle position sensor in a BMW?

- The throttle position sensor monitors the position of the throttle pedal and sends signals to the engine control unit to adjust the air-fuel mixture for optimal engine performance.

8. Why is it important to address OBDII code P0123 promptly in a BMW?

- Ignoring this code can lead to drivability issues, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential damage to the engine or other components over time.

9. Can a bad throttle position sensor cause other codes to appear in a BMW?

- Yes, a malfunctioning throttle position sensor can sometimes trigger other related trouble codes, such as P0121 (Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Range/Performance Problem).

10. Is it necessary to clear the OBDII code P0123 after repairing the issue in a BMW?

- Yes, it is essential to clear the trouble code using a scan tool after repairing the underlying problem to reset the system and ensure the issue has been resolved.