AutoCodesToyota – P2120 2013 Toyota RAV4

P2120 2013 Toyota RAV4 Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit

Quick Answer

The Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensor is built into the accelerator pedal sensor assembly and has 2 sensor circuits: VPA (main) and VPA2 (sub). Common causes include Faulty Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor, Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Accelerator Pedal 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
P2120 2013 Toyota RAV4 indicates Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor, Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Accelerator Pedal 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.
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Code Popularity 307
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 17, 2022
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Code P2120 2013 Toyota RAV4 Description

The Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensor is built into the accelerator pedal sensor assembly and has 2 sensor circuits: VPA (main) and VPA2 (sub). This sensor is a non-contact type sensor and uses Hall-effect elements in order to yield accurate signals even in extreme driving conditions, such as at high speeds as well as very low speeds. The voltage, which is applied to terminals VPA and VPA2 of the Engine Control Module (ECM), varies between 0.5 V and 4.75 V in proportion to the operating angle of the accelerator pedal (throttle valve). A signal from VPA indicates the actual accelerator pedal opening angle (throttle valve opening angle) and is used for engine control. A signal from VPA2 conveys the status of the VPA circuit and is used to check the accelerator pedal position sensor itself.
The ECM monitors the actual accelerator pedal opening angle (throttle valve opening angle) through the signals from VPA and VPA2 and controls the throttle actuator according to these signals.
When either the output voltage of VPA or VPA2 deviates from the standard range, or the difference between the output voltages of the 2 sensor circuits is more than the threshold, the ECM determines that there is a malfunction in the accelerator pedal position sensor. The ECM then illuminates the MIL and stores a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).
OBDII Code P2120 2013 Toyota RAV4 - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit - AutoCodes.com
P2120 2013 Toyota RAV4 Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2120 2013 Toyota RAV4?

  • Faulty Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor
  • Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P2120 2013 Toyota RAV4?

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 P2120 2013 Toyota RAV4 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 P2120 2013 Toyota RAV4 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 P2120 2013 Toyota RAV4 Code

1. What does the OBDII code P2120 mean on a 2013 Toyota RAV4?

P2120 indicates a malfunction in the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit, which helps monitor the position of the accelerator pedal.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P2120 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4?

Symptoms include reduced engine power, poor throttle response, an illuminated Check Engine Light, and the vehicle potentially entering "limp" mode.

3. What causes the P2120 code to appear on a 2013 Toyota RAV4?

Common causes include a faulty accelerator pedal position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or issues with the vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM).

4. Can I drive my 2013 Toyota RAV4 with the P2120 code?

Driving with this code is not recommended as it can lead to limited power, reduced drivability, and potential safety concerns.

5. How do I diagnose a P2120 code on a 2013 Toyota RAV4?

Diagnose the issue by using an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspecting the throttle pedal position sensor, and checking the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion.

6. How do I fix the P2120 code on a 2013 Toyota RAV4?

Repairs may involve replacing the throttle pedal position sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming or replacing the ECM if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to fix a P2120 code on a 2013 Toyota RAV4?

The cost can vary but typically ranges from $100 to $300 for throttle pedal sensor replacement, plus diagnostic fees if performed by a professional.

8. Can a dirty throttle body cause the P2120 code on a 2013 Toyota RAV4?

While rare, a dirty throttle body can sometimes contribute to throttle-related issues, but the primary cause of P2120 is usually related to the sensor or wiring.

9. Does the P2120 code require sensor calibration after replacement on a 2013 Toyota RAV4?

Yes, after replacing the throttle pedal position sensor, calibration or initialization using a professional diagnostic tool may be required.

10. What tools are needed to troubleshoot a P2120 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4?

You’ll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for testing voltage and continuity, and possibly a repair manual or wiring diagram for your vehicle.

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