P0120 Pontiac Code - Throttle Position Sensor 1 Circuit
Quick Answer
The Throttle Position (TP) Sensor 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 Pontiac indicates Throttle Position Sensor 1 Circuit .
- 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.
Code P0120 Pontiac Description
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.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0120 Pontiac?
- Faulty Throttle Position Sensor
- Throttle Position Sensor circuit is open or shorted
- Throttle Position Sensor poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC P0120 Pontiac?
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 Pontiac 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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Frequently Asked Questions about P0120 Pontiac Code
1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0120 (Throttle Position Sensor 1 Circuit)?
- Common symptoms include issues with acceleration, rough idling, stalling, poor fuel efficiency, and the vehicle going into "limp mode."
2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0120 in a Pontiac related to the Throttle Position Sensor 1 Circuit?
- The code P0120 in a Pontiac may be caused by a faulty throttle position sensor, wiring issues, a defective connector, or a problem with the engine control module (ECM).
3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0120 on my Pontiac?
- You can use an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code and then perform a visual inspection of the throttle position sensor and its wiring. Testing the sensor's voltage and resistance may also help diagnose the issue.
4. Can I drive my Pontiac with the OBDII code P0120 (Throttle Position Sensor 1 Circuit) present?
- It is not recommended to drive your Pontiac with the P0120 code as it can lead to poor performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential safety hazards.
5. How can I repair the OBDII code P0120 on my Pontiac related to the Throttle Position Sensor 1 Circuit?
- To repair the P0120 code, you may need to replace the throttle position sensor, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, and clear the code from the ECM using an OBDII scanner.
6. Are there any DIY tips for fixing the OBDII code P0120 in a Pontiac?
- While replacing the throttle position sensor yourself is possible, it's recommended to consult a professional mechanic to ensure the repair is done correctly and to prevent further issues.
7. What is the function of the Throttle Position Sensor in a Pontiac?
- The Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) in a Pontiac monitors the position of the throttle pedal and sends signals to the ECM to adjust fuel delivery and engine performance accordingly.
8. How important is it to address the OBDII code P0120 promptly in a Pontiac?
- It is crucial to address the P0120 code promptly in a Pontiac to prevent further damage to the engine, ensure optimal performance, and maintain fuel efficiency.
9. Can a faulty Throttle Position Sensor cause other OBDII codes to appear in a Pontiac?
- Yes, a faulty Throttle Position Sensor can contribute to the appearance of other codes related to engine performance, such as codes related to fuel delivery or throttle control.
10. Is it recommended to reset the ECM after repairing the OBDII code P0120 in a Pontiac?
- Yes, it is recommended to reset the ECM after repairing the P0120 code to clear any stored error codes and ensure the system recognizes the new throttle position sensor.
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