AutoCodes – Audi – P0120 Audi

P0120 Audi 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 Audi 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.

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Code Popularity 9,989

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 P0120 Audi 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 Audi - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — P0120 Audi Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0120 Audi?

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

How to Fix the DTC P0120 Audi?

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 Audi 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 P0120 Audi Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0120 in an Audi?

- Common symptoms include poor acceleration, stalling, rough idling, and the vehicle going into limp mode.

2. What does the OBDII code P0120 in an Audi indicate?

- The code indicates a malfunction in the throttle pedal position sensor or switch 'A' circuit.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0120 in an Audi?

- Possible causes include a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or issues with the throttle body.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0120 in my Audi?

- You can diagnose the issue by checking the throttle position sensor's voltage, inspecting the wiring for damage, and performing a thorough visual inspection.

5. Can I still drive my Audi with OBDII code P0120?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as it can lead to further damage or safety issues.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0120 in my Audi?

- Repair options include replacing the throttle position sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and resetting the fault code using an OBDII scanner.

7. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P0120 in an Audi without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can clear the fault code temporarily, it is crucial to address the root cause to prevent the code from reoccurring.

8. Will OBDII code P0120 cause my Audi to fail an emissions test?

- Yes, this code can cause your Audi to fail an emissions test due to the malfunction in the throttle pedal position sensor.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0120 in an Audi?

- The cost can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but repairs for this code generally range from $100 to $300, including parts and labor.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0120 in an Audi?

- While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address the issue, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for a proper diagnosis and repair to ensure the problem is fixed correctly.