AutoCodesChevrolet – P0121 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

P0121 2016 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 2016 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 648
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 2016 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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - Throttle Position Sensor 1 Performance - AutoCodes.com
P0121 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Throttle Position Sensor 1 Performance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0121 2016 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 2016 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 2016 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 2016 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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code

What does the P0121 code mean on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

The P0121 code indicates a problem with the performance of Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) 1, where its signal is outside the expected range or inconsistent with other sensor inputs.

What are the symptoms of a P0121 code in a Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include poor acceleration, unstable idle, reduced engine power mode, stalling, and the check engine light turning on.

What causes the P0121 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty throttle position sensor, wiring or connector issues, a damaged throttle body, or carbon buildup affecting the throttle plate's movement.

Can a dirty throttle body cause the P0121 code?

Yes, carbon buildup on the throttle body can cause the TPS to send incorrect signals, leading to the P0121 code.

How do you diagnose the P0121 code on a 2016 Silverado?

Diagnosis typically involves scanning for codes, checking live TPS data, inspecting wiring and connectors, and testing the throttle body for proper operation.

Can I drive my Silverado with the P0121 code?

Driving with the P0121 code is not recommended, as it can affect throttle response and may lead to reduced engine power or stalling.

How much does it cost to fix the P0121 code?

Repair costs range from $100 to $500, depending on whether the issue involves cleaning the throttle body, replacing the TPS, or fixing wiring problems.

Do I need to replace the throttle body to fix the P0121 code?

Not always. The issue could be resolved by cleaning the throttle body, repairing wiring, or replacing only the TPS if it's faulty.

Will clearing the P0121 code fix the problem?

Clearing the code may turn off the check engine light temporarily, but the underlying issue needs to be addressed to prevent the code from returning.

Can a bad accelerator pedal sensor cause the P0121 code?

While uncommon, a faulty accelerator pedal position sensor could potentially contribute to the code if its signal conflicts with the TPS readings.

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