AutoCodes – Toyota – P2120 Toyota

P2120 Toyota 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 Toyota 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 8,116

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 17, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P2120 Toyota 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 Toyota - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P2120 Toyota Code - Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2120 Toyota?

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 Toyota?

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 Toyota 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 Toyota code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2120 Toyota code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P2120 Toyota code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Toyota Models

P2120 2006 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2007 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2008 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2009 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2010 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2011 Toyota Camry — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2001 Toyota Highlander — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2002 Toyota Highlander — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2003 Toyota Highlander — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2004 Toyota Highlander — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2005 Toyota Highlander — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2006 Toyota Highlander — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2007 Toyota Highlander — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2013 Toyota RAV4 — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2014 Toyota RAV4 — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2015 Toyota RAV4 — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2016 Toyota RAV4 — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2017 Toyota RAV4 — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit
P2120 2018 Toyota RAV4 — Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit

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 Toyota Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P2120 in a Toyota?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P2120 in a Toyota include issues with acceleration, reduced engine power, rough idling, and potential stalling of the vehicle.

2. What causes the OBDII code P2120 related to the Throttle Pedal Position Sensor/Switch 'D' Circuit in a Toyota?

The code P2120 in a Toyota is usually triggered by a faulty throttle pedal position sensor/switch, damaged wiring in the circuit, or a poor electrical connection.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P2120 in my Toyota?

Diagnosing the OBDII code P2120 in a Toyota involves using a scan tool to read the trouble code, checking the throttle pedal position sensor for proper operation, inspecting the wiring for damage, and testing the electrical connections.

4. Can I still drive my Toyota with the OBDII code P2120 present?

It is not recommended to drive your Toyota with the OBDII code P2120 present, as it can lead to potential safety hazards, reduced performance, and further damage to the vehicle if left unresolved.

5. What are some repair tips for fixing the OBDII code P2120 in a Toyota?

Repair tips for addressing the OBDII code P2120 in a Toyota include replacing the throttle pedal position sensor/switch if faulty, repairing any damaged wiring, and ensuring all electrical connections are secure and functioning properly.

6. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P2120 in a Toyota without making any repairs?

While you can clear the trouble code using a scan tool, it is not recommended to reset the OBDII code P2120 in a Toyota without addressing the underlying issue, as it may lead to recurring problems and potential safety risks.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code P2120 in a Toyota?

The cost of repairing the OBDII code P2120 in a Toyota can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may involve expenses for parts, labor, and diagnostic services.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the OBDII code P2120 in a Toyota at home?

If you have the necessary tools, knowledge, and experience working on automotive electrical systems, you may be able to diagnose and repair the OBDII code P2120 in your Toyota at home. However, it is recommended to consult a professional if you are unsure.

9. Will the OBDII code P2120 in a Toyota reset itself after the issue is fixed?

After repairing the underlying cause of the OBDII code P2120 in a Toyota, you may need to use a scan tool to clear the trouble code from the vehicle's system. In some cases, the code may reset itself after a certain number of drive cycles if the issue is resolved.

10. How urgent is it to address the OBDII code P2120 in a Toyota?

It is important to address the OBDII code P2120 in a Toyota promptly to prevent further damage to the vehicle, ensure safe driving conditions, and maintain optimal performance. Delaying repairs can lead to more severe issues and potential safety risks.