AutoCodes – Volkswagen – P0123 Volkswagen

P0123 Volkswagen Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit High

Quick Answer

The Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) responds to the accelerator pedal movement. Common causes include Faulty throttle position sensor, Throttle position sensor harness is open or shorted, Throttle position sensor 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
P0123 Volkswagen indicates Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit High.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty throttle position sensor, Throttle position sensor harness is open or shorted, Throttle position sensor 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 26,445
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P0123 Volkswagen 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 P0123 Volkswagen - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit High - AutoCodes.com
P0123 Volkswagen Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit High

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0123 Volkswagen?

  • Faulty throttle position sensor
  • Throttle position sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Throttle position sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0123 Volkswagen?

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 P0123 Volkswagen 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 P0123 Volkswagen code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0123 Volkswagen code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0123 Volkswagen code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P0123 Volkswagen Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0123 in a Volkswagen?

- Common symptoms include reduced engine power, hesitation or stalling when accelerating, and the vehicle going into "limp mode" to protect the engine.

2. What does the OBDII code P0123 in a Volkswagen indicate?

- This code indicates an issue with the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit High, meaning that the signal voltage from the sensor is higher than expected.

3. What are possible causes of OBDII code P0123 in a Volkswagen?

- Possible causes include a faulty throttle position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, a malfunctioning throttle body, or a problem with the engine control module.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0123 in my Volkswagen?

- You can diagnose the issue by checking the throttle position sensor's wiring and connectors for damage, performing a voltage test on the sensor, and conducting a thorough inspection of the throttle body.

5. Is it safe to drive my Volkswagen with OBDII code P0123 present?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with this code present, as it can lead to engine performance issues and potential safety hazards. Have the issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.

6. Can I repair OBDII code P0123 in my Volkswagen myself?

- Depending on your level of automotive knowledge, you may be able to replace the throttle position sensor or repair the wiring yourself. However, for more complex issues like a faulty engine control module, it's best to seek professional help.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0123 in a Volkswagen?

- The cost of repairs can vary depending on the cause of the issue and whether you choose to do the repairs yourself or take your vehicle to a professional. Costs can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars.

8. Can resetting the OBDII code P0123 in my Volkswagen make it go away permanently?

- Resetting the code may temporarily make it go away, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear. It's important to diagnose and repair the root cause of the problem.

9. Are there any preventive measures to avoid OBDII code P0123 in my Volkswagen?

- To prevent this code, it's essential to perform regular maintenance on your vehicle, including checking the throttle position sensor, keeping the wiring in good condition, and addressing any engine performance issues promptly.

10. How long does it take to repair OBDII code P0123 in a Volkswagen?

- The repair time can vary depending on the cause of the issue and the extent of the repair needed. Simple fixes like replacing a sensor may only take an hour or two, while more complex issues could require several hours or even days to resolve.

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