AutoCodesChevrolet – P0121 2015 Chevrolet Silverado

P0121 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Throttle Position Sensor 1 Performance

Quick Answer

The Throttle Body Assembly contains a contact-less inductive throttle position sensing element that is managed by a customized integrated circuit. Common causes include Faulty Throttle Body Assembly, Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted, Throttle Body Assembly circuit 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
P0121 2015 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Throttle Position Sensor 1 Performance.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Throttle Body Assembly, Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted, Throttle Body Assembly circuit 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 2,045
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 20, 2022
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Code P0121 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Description

The Throttle Body Assembly contains a contact-less inductive throttle position sensing element that is managed by a customized integrated circuit. The throttle position sensor is mounted within the throttle body assembly and is not serviceable. The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies the throttle body with a 5 V reference circuit, a low reference circuit. The asynchronous signal means communication is only going from the throttle body to the ECM. The throttle body cannot receive data from the ECM over the signal/serial data circuit. The throttle position sensor provides a signal voltage that changes relative to throttle blade angle. The throttle position sensor information is transmitted between the throttle body and the ECM on the signal/serial data circuit. The ECM decodes the serial data signal and is used as voltages for throttle position sensor 1 and 2. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects that the throttle position sensor 1 voltage is stuck in range for greater than 1 s.
OBDII Code P0121 2015 Chevrolet Silverado - Throttle Position Sensor 1 Performance - AutoCodes.com
P0121 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Throttle Position Sensor 1 Performance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0121 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

  • Faulty Throttle Body Assembly
  • Throttle Body Assembly harness is open or shorted
  • Throttle Body Assembly circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0121 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

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 P0121 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P0121 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P0121 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does OBDII code P0121 mean on a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

P0121 indicates a problem with the performance of Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) 1, where the signal is outside the expected range compared to the accelerator pedal position or other sensors.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0121 in a 2015 Chevy Silverado?

Symptoms include poor acceleration, engine stalling, rough idling, reduced engine power mode (limp mode), and an illuminated check engine light.

3. What causes the P0121 code to trigger in a 2015 Silverado?

Common causes include a faulty throttle position sensor, wiring issues like damaged or corroded connections, a defective accelerator pedal position sensor, or a malfunctioning throttle body.

4. Can I drive my 2015 Chevrolet Silverado with a P0121 code?

It’s not recommended to drive with this code as it may result in reduced engine performance, unsafe driving conditions, or further damage to the vehicle.

5. How do I diagnose the P0121 code on my 2015 Silverado?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, check the throttle position sensor and accelerator pedal position sensor for proper operation, and use a scan tool to monitor sensor readings.

6. How do you fix the P0121 code on a Chevy Silverado?

Repairs may include replacing the throttle position sensor, repairing damaged wiring, cleaning or replacing the throttle body, or replacing the accelerator pedal position sensor if needed.

7. How much does it cost to fix the P0121 code on a 2015 Silverado?

Repairs typically range from $100 to $400 depending on whether you need to replace the throttle position sensor, throttle body, or other components.

8. Can a dirty throttle body cause the P0121 code?

Yes, a dirty or carbon-clogged throttle body can cause inconsistent sensor readings, which may trigger the P0121 code.

9. Will resetting the check engine light fix P0121 on a 2015 Silverado?

Resetting the light won’t fix the underlying issue. The code will likely return unless the root cause is addressed.

10. What tools are needed to diagnose and fix the P0121 code?

You’ll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter to test electrical connections, and basic tools for removing and inspecting the throttle body or sensors.

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