Quick Answer
P0122 means: DTC P0122 means the Throttle Position Sensor is sending a low voltage signal.
Can I drive with P0122? It's important to address this issue immediately to prevent further engine damage.
Common Questions
What does P0122 mean and how does it affect my car?
DTC P0122 indicates a low voltage signal from the throttle position sensor, impacting your vehicle's acceleration and power. This can lead to poor fuel economy and potential stalling.
What are the most common causes of P0122 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include a faulty TPS, damaged wiring, or dirt buildup. Repair costs can range from $100 to $300 depending on the exact issue and whether parts need replacement.
Can I drive my car with P0122 or should I stop immediately?
While you might still be able to drive, it's not advisable to ignore P0122. Driving with this code can lead to reduced power and stalling, posing safety risks.
How can I diagnose P0122 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, scan for DTCs, view live data for TPS voltage, and analyze freeze frame data to identify when the issue occurs.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0122?
Vehicles like the 2001-2005 Toyota Camry, 2003-2007 Honda Accord, and 2005-2014 Ford Mustang frequently encounter P0122, often due to TPS wear.
How can I prevent P0122 from happening again?
Regularly clean your throttle body and check the wiring for wear. Keeping up with maintenance can help prevent sensor failure and related issues.
What is P0122?
DTC P0122 indicates a problem with the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS), which is a critical component in modern vehicles responsible for monitoring the position of the throttle plate. When this code is triggered, it typically means that the TPS is sending a voltage signal to the Engine Control Module (ECM) that is lower than expected, suggesting that the throttle is not opening as it should. This can lead to a variety of performance issues, such as reduced power, poor acceleration, and in some cases, the engine may enter a failsafe mode to prevent damage. For drivers of vehicles like the 2001-2005 Toyota Camry, Honda Accord (2003-2007), and Ford Mustang (2005-2014), it's essential to address this code promptly. Ignoring it could result in decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Moreover, a malfunctioning TPS can lead to erratic engine behavior, such as stalling or hesitation during acceleration. Drivers should be aware that this issue, if left unresolved, could lead to more significant engine problems down the line, affecting overall vehicle reliability and safety. Proper diagnosis and timely repairs are crucial to restoring optimal engine function and performance.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P0122 is present:
- Check engine light stays on constantly, indicating a fault in the TPS system.
- Engine hesitates during acceleration, leading to frustrating driving experiences.
- Fuel economy decreased by 10-15%, resulting in more frequent trips to the gas station.
- Stalling at idle or low speeds, which can pose safety risks.
- Unresponsive throttle when pressing the gas pedal, making it hard to maintain speed.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P0122 (ordered by frequency):
- Faulty Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) - This is the most common cause, with a likelihood of 60%. The TPS may wear out, leading to inaccurate voltage readings.
- Damaged wiring or connectors - This can cause intermittent signals or total loss of communication, contributing to about 20% of cases. Inspecting the wiring for frays or corrosion is essential.
- Contamination or dirt buildup - Dust and debris can interfere with the sensor's operations, accounting for 10%. Keeping the throttle body clean can help prevent this.
- ECM issues - A malfunctioning Engine Control Module can also trigger P0122, though this is less common, at around 5%. Reprogramming or replacing the ECM might be necessary.
- Less common but serious cause - Vacuum leaks around the throttle body can lead to erratic performance, requiring a more in-depth inspection.
P0122 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Throttle Position Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty TPS with a new OEM or aftermarket part.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors related to the TPS.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 85%
Money-Saving Tips for P0122
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional P0122 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0122. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes). Look for frayed wires or loose connectors near the TPS.
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes). This will help you see if other codes are present that could indicate a broader issue.
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the TPS voltage output against specifications (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the TPS voltage output against specifications (20-30 minutes). This can confirm if the sensor is functioning correctly.
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes (10-15 minutes). Ensure that the TPS is functioning properly under various throttle positions.
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (15-20 minutes). Pay attention to throttle response and check if the check engine light reappears.
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Throttle Position Sensor Replacement on 2004 Toyota Camry
Vehicle: 2004 Toyota Camry, 120,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported a check engine light and engine hesitation during acceleration.
Diagnosis: Scanning revealed DTC P0122. Visual inspection showed frayed wiring near the TPS.
Solution: Replaced the TPS and repaired the damaged wiring.
Cost: $250 (TPS $150, labor $100)
Result: The vehicle's performance improved significantly, and the check engine light remained off after the repair.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2003 Honda Accord
Vehicle: 2003 Honda Accord, 150,000 miles
Problem: Customer complained of poor acceleration and check engine light.
Diagnosis: DTC P0122 was present. A multimeter test confirmed low voltage due to damaged wiring.
Solution: Repaired the wiring harness and reconnected the TPS.
Cost: $180 (labor $100, wiring parts $80)
Result: Post-repair, the vehicle experienced normal throttle response and no further codes appeared.