AutoCodes – Toyota – P0120 2004 Toyota Corolla

P0120 2004 Toyota Corolla Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction 3ZZ-FE Engine

Quick Answer

The throttle position sensor (TPS) responds to the accelerator pedal movement. Common causes include Faulty Throttle Position Sensor, Throttle Position Sensor circuit is open or shorted, Throttle Position Sensor 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
P0120 2004 Toyota Corolla indicates Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction 3ZZ-FE Engine.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Throttle Position Sensor, Throttle Position Sensor circuit is open or shorted, Throttle Position Sensor 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 5,612
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P0120 2004 Toyota Corolla Description

The throttle position sensor (TPS) 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 P0120 2004 Toyota Corolla - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction 3ZZ-FE Engine - AutoCodes.com
P0120 2004 Toyota Corolla Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction 3ZZ-FE Engine

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0120 2004 Toyota Corolla?

  • Faulty Throttle Position Sensor
  • Throttle Position Sensor circuit is open or shorted
  • Throttle Position Sensor poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0120 2004 Toyota Corolla?

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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0120 2004 Toyota Corolla 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 P0120 2004 Toyota Corolla code?

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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 P0120 2004 Toyota Corolla Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0120 in a 2004 Toyota Corolla with a 3ZZ-FE engine?

The common symptoms of P0120 in a 2004 Toyota Corolla include issues with acceleration, reduced engine power, and possibly even stalling.

2. What are the possible causes of the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction in a 2004 Toyota Corolla?

Potential causes of the P0120 code in a 2004 Toyota Corolla include a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or issues with the engine control module.

3. How can I diagnose the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction in my 2004 Toyota Corolla?

To diagnose the P0120 code, you can use an OBDII scanner to read the error code, inspect the throttle position sensor and its wiring, and test the sensor's voltage and resistance.

4. Can I continue driving my 2004 Toyota Corolla with the P0120 code present?

It is not recommended to drive your Toyota Corolla with the P0120 code present, as it can lead to poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential safety hazards.

5. How do I repair the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction in my 2004 Toyota Corolla?

To repair the P0120 code, you may need to replace the throttle position sensor, repair any damaged wiring, or reprogram the engine control module.

6. Are there any DIY tips for fixing the P0120 code in a 2004 Toyota Corolla?

While some basic troubleshooting steps can be done at home, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for accurate diagnosis and repair of the P0120 code.

7. Will resetting the check engine light make the P0120 code disappear in my 2004 Toyota Corolla?

Resetting the check engine light may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue causing the P0120 remains unresolved, the code is likely to reappear.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction in a 2004 Toyota Corolla?

The cost of repairing the P0120 code can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

9. Can a faulty throttle position sensor cause other engine performance issues besides triggering the P0120 code in a 2004 Toyota Corolla?

Yes, a faulty throttle position sensor can cause a variety of engine performance issues, including rough idling, poor acceleration, and hesitation during driving.

10. Is the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction a common problem in 2004 Toyota Corollas with the 3ZZ-FE engine?

Yes, the P0120 code related to the throttle pedal position sensor is a common issue in 2004 Toyota Corollas equipped with the 3ZZ-FE engine, and it may require regular maintenance and inspection.

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