AutoCodesGeneric – P1120

P1120 Code - Throttle Position Sensor Out Of Range

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
P1120 indicates Throttle Position Sensor Out Of Range.
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 87,389
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 25, 2019
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Code P1120 Description

The Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) responds to the accelerator pedal movement. The TPS is a rotary potentiometer sensor that provides a signal to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) that is linearly proportional to the throttle plate/shaft position. As the TPS is rotated by the throttle shaft, the following operating conditions are determined by the PCM:
• Closed throttle (includes idle or deceleration)
• Part throttle (includes cruise or moderate acceleration)
• Wide open throttle (includes maximum acceleration or de-choke on crank)
• Throttle angle rate
OBDII Code P1120 - Throttle Position Sensor Out Of Range - AutoCodes.com
P1120 Code - Throttle Position Sensor Out Of Range

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1120?

  • Faulty throttle position sensor
  • Throttle position sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Throttle position sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Throttle position sensor not properly adjusted

How to Fix the DTC P1120?

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 P1120 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 P1120 code?

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Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1120 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

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 P1120 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1120 (Throttle Position Sensor Out Of Range)?

- Common symptoms include rough idle, stalling, poor acceleration, and the Check Engine light coming on.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1120?

- The code may be triggered by a faulty throttle position sensor, wiring issues, a dirty throttle body, or a problem with the vehicle's electronic control module.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P1120?

- Diagnosing the issue typically involves checking the throttle position sensor's voltage output, inspecting the wiring for any damage, and ensuring the throttle body is clean and functioning correctly.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with OBDII code P1120?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with this code as it can lead to poor performance and potential safety issues. It's best to address the problem promptly.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P1120?

- Repair options may include replacing the throttle position sensor, repairing any damaged wiring, cleaning the throttle body, or resetting the electronic control module.

6. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P1120 without repairs?

- While clearing the code may temporarily turn off the Check Engine light, it's important to address the underlying issue to prevent further problems and potential damage to your vehicle.

7. Will OBDII code P1120 cause damage to my vehicle if left untreated?

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

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1120?

- The cost of repairs can vary depending on the cause of the issue and the specific vehicle. It's best to consult a mechanic for an accurate diagnosis and repair estimate.

9. Can I prevent OBDII code P1120 from occurring in the future?

- Regular maintenance, such as keeping the throttle body clean and checking the sensor's connections, can help prevent this code from reoccurring.

10. Should I attempt to repair OBDII code P1120 myself, or seek professional help?

- While some simple repairs like cleaning the throttle body can be done by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and fixing complex issues with the throttle position sensor or wiring may require professional assistance from a mechanic.

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