P0120 Toyota Code - Throttle / Pedal Position Sensor / Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
Quick Answer
The throttle position sensor is mounted on the throttle with motor body assembly and detects the opening angle of the throttle valve. Common causes include Faulty Throttle Position Sensor (built into Throttle Body Assembly), 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 Toyota indicates Throttle / Pedal Position Sensor / Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Throttle Position Sensor (built into Throttle Body Assembly), 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 Toyota Description
As the valve closes, the sensor output voltage decreases and as the valve opens, the sensor output voltage increases. The Engine Control Module (ECM) calculates the throttle valve opening angle according to these signals and controls the throttle actuator in response to driver inputs. These signals are also used in calculations such as air-fuel ratio correction, power increase correction, and fuel-cut control.
The ECM uses the throttle position sensor to monitor the throttle valve opening angle. There are several checks that the ECM performs to confirm the proper operation of the throttle position sensor.
This sensor transmits two signals, if the output voltage difference between the two signals deviates from the normal operating range, the ECM interprets this as a malfunction in the throttle position sensor. The ECM illuminates the MIL and stores the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0120 Toyota?
- Faulty Throttle Position Sensor (built into Throttle Body Assembly)
- Throttle Position Sensor circuit is open or shorted
- Throttle Position Sensor poor electrical connection
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
How to Fix the DTC P0120 Toyota?
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
User Submitted Video
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the P0120 Toyota 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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Information for Specific Toyota Models
- P0120 1997 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 1998 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 1999 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2000 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2001 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2006 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2007 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2008 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2009 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2010 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2011 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2001 Toyota Corolla — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction 3ZZ-FE Engine
- P0120 2002 Toyota Corolla — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction 3ZZ-FE Engine
- P0120 2003 Toyota Corolla — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction 3ZZ-FE Engine
- P0120 2004 Toyota Corolla — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction 3ZZ-FE Engine
- P0120 2005 Toyota Corolla — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction 3ZZ-FE Engine
- P0120 2006 Toyota Corolla — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction 3ZZ-FE Engine
- P0120 2000 Toyota Echo — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2001 Toyota Echo — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2002 Toyota Echo — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2001 Toyota Highlander — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2002 Toyota Highlander — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2003 Toyota Highlander — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2004 Toyota Highlander — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2005 Toyota Highlander — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2006 Toyota Highlander — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2007 Toyota Highlander — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2004 Toyota Prius — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2005 Toyota Prius — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2006 Toyota Prius — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2007 Toyota Prius — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2008 Toyota Prius — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2009 Toyota Prius — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2013 Toyota RAV4 — Throttle / Pedal Position Sensor / Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2014 Toyota RAV4 — Throttle / Pedal Position Sensor / Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2015 Toyota RAV4 — Throttle / Pedal Position Sensor / Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2016 Toyota RAV4 — Throttle / Pedal Position Sensor / Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2017 Toyota RAV4 — Throttle / Pedal Position Sensor / Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
- P0120 2018 Toyota RAV4 — Throttle / Pedal Position Sensor / Switch 'A' Circuit Malfunction
Frequently Asked Questions about P0120 Toyota Code
1. What does the OBDII code P0120 mean on a Toyota?
P0120 indicates a malfunction in the Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor 'A' circuit, which monitors the position of the throttle and sends signals to the engine control module.
2. What are the common symptoms of code P0120 on a Toyota?
Symptoms include poor engine performance, erratic idle, reduced acceleration, stalling, illuminated Check Engine Light, and possible activation of limp mode.
3. What causes the P0120 code to appear on a Toyota?
Common causes include a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, electrical short circuits, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).
4. Can I drive my Toyota with the P0120 code active?
Driving with the P0120 code is not recommended as it can lead to reduced engine performance, unsafe driving conditions, and potential damage to other engine components.
5. How do I fix the P0120 code on a Toyota?
Repairs may include replacing the throttle position sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring and connectors, cleaning the throttle body, or updating/replacing the ECM if necessary.
6. How is the P0120 code diagnosed on a Toyota?
A mechanic will use an OBDII scanner, inspect the throttle position sensor and wiring, test voltage signals, and verify the throttle body operation to pinpoint the issue.
7. How much does it cost to repair the P0120 code on a Toyota?
Repair costs vary but typically range from $150 to $400, depending on whether the throttle position sensor, wiring, or ECM needs replacement.
8. Can a dirty throttle body cause the P0120 code on a Toyota?
Yes, a dirty or obstructed throttle body can affect the throttle position sensor readings and trigger the P0120 code.
9. What tools are needed to fix the P0120 code on a Toyota?
Common tools include an OBDII scanner, multimeter for electrical testing, throttle body cleaner, and basic hand tools for part replacement.
10. Will clearing the P0120 code fix the problem on my Toyota?
Clearing the code may temporarily turn off the Check Engine Light, but the underlying issue must be addressed to prevent the code from returning.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P0120 Toyota OBDII Code
-
Hi, i am encountering problem on my toyota avanza model 2011, on the run the engine check light appearing on/off and the rpm goes up and down i already brought my unit for engine scan and it said throttle pedal position switch error but after few minutes error was gone according to the mechanic. I ask if i need to replace the tps he said no instead replace my timing chain, tensioner bearing & 2 guide. Please advise. Thanks
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