P2120 Lexus 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 Lexus 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.
Code P2120 Lexus Description
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).
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2120 Lexus?
- 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 Lexus?
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 Lexus 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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Frequently Asked Questions about P2120 Lexus Code
What does the OBDII code P2120 mean for a Lexus?
Code P2120 on a Lexus indicates an issue with the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit, which monitors the position of the accelerator pedal.
What are common symptoms of code P2120 on a Lexus?
Symptoms include reduced engine performance, hesitation during acceleration, poor throttle response, and activation of the check engine light.
What causes the P2120 code in a Lexus?
Common causes include a faulty throttle pedal position sensor, damaged wiring or connections in the circuit, or issues with the Engine Control Module (ECM).
Can driving with code P2120 damage my Lexus?
Driving with code P2120 may lead to reduced performance and unsafe driving conditions, but it typically doesn't cause immediate damage to the engine.
How is the P2120 code diagnosed on a Lexus?
Technicians use an OBDII scanner to read the code, inspect the wiring and connectors, and test the throttle pedal position sensor for proper operation.
How do you fix the P2120 code on a Lexus?
Repairs may involve replacing the throttle pedal position sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or reprogramming or replacing the ECM.
Can I reset the P2120 code without fixing the issue?
Resetting the code without addressing the problem may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but the issue will likely recur.
How much does it cost to repair code P2120 on a Lexus?
Repair costs vary depending on the exact cause but typically range from $150 to $400 for parts and labor.
Is the throttle pedal position sensor covered under warranty for a Lexus?
It depends on the vehicle’s warranty terms. Many powertrain warranties may cover this sensor if the vehicle is still under coverage.
Can a dirty throttle body cause code P2120 in a Lexus?
A dirty throttle body is unlikely to cause a P2120 code, as the issue is specific to the throttle pedal position sensor circuit.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P2120 Lexus OBDII Code
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