AutoCodes – Scion – P0120 2005 Scion xB

P0120 2005 Scion xB Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction

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 2005 Scion xB indicates Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction.
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 3,584
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 2005 Scion xB 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 2005 Scion xB - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
P0120 2005 Scion xB Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0120 2005 Scion xB?

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

How to Fix the DTC P0120 2005 Scion xB?

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 P0120 2005 Scion xB 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 2005 Scion xB 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 2005 Scion xB Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0120 in a 2005 Scion xB?

- Common symptoms include issues with acceleration, unresponsive throttle pedal, stalling, and the vehicle going into "limp mode."

2. What causes the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction in a 2005 Scion xB?

- The P0120 code is typically triggered by a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or issues with the throttle pedal itself.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0120 in my 2005 Scion xB?

- You can use a scan tool to read the code, visually inspect the throttle pedal and sensor for any visible damage, and perform tests on the sensor and related wiring.

4. Can a dirty throttle body be a cause of code P0120 in a 2005 Scion xB?

- While a dirty throttle body can cause related issues, it is not a direct cause of the P0120 code. Focus on checking the throttle position sensor and its circuit first.

5. Is it safe to drive my 2005 Scion xB with OBDII code P0120 present?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the P0120 code present, as it can lead to safety concerns and further damage if not addressed promptly.

6. What are the repair options for fixing the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction in a 2005 Scion xB?

- Repair options include replacing the throttle position sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, or recalibrating the sensor if possible.

7. Can I reset the OBDII code P0120 in my 2005 Scion xB without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can clear the code temporarily, it will likely return if the underlying issue is not addressed. It is important to diagnose and fix the root cause.

8. How much does it cost to repair the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction in a 2005 Scion xB?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the cause of the issue and whether you choose to do the repair yourself or take it to a mechanic. Costs can range from $100 to $300 or more.

9. Can a bad throttle position sensor cause poor fuel economy in a 2005 Scion xB?

- Yes, a faulty throttle position sensor can affect the fuel-air mixture, leading to poor fuel economy and potentially triggering the P0120 code.

10. Are there any preventive maintenance measures to avoid OBDII code P0120 in a 2005 Scion xB?

- Regularly inspecting and cleaning the throttle body, checking the throttle position sensor for wear, and addressing any issues with the throttle pedal can help prevent the occurrence of the P0120 code.

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