Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
The circuit for Throttle Position Sensor/Switch A is reporting a low input.
What is the meaning of P0122?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code that applies to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer), including Honda, Jeep, Toyota, VW, Chevy, Ford, etc. The exact repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.
A P0122 code indicates that the vehicle’s computer has detected that the TPS (throttle position sensor) “A” is reporting a voltage that is too low. On some vehicles, the lower limit is 0.17 – 0.20 volts (V). In simple terms, the throttle position sensor is used to determine the position of the throttle.
Did you adjust it during installation? If the signal value is less than 0.17V, then the PCM sets this code. It could be due to an open or a short to ground in the signal circuit, or you may have lost the 5 Volt reference voltage.
For more information on the TPS, see What Is A Throttle Position Sensor?
An example of a TPS throttle position sensor:
Symptoms
The symptoms may include:
Other symptoms may also be present.
Causes
A code P0122 may indicate that one or more of the following has occurred:
Possible Solutions
Refer to a vehicle-specific repair manual to determine the location of the “A” TPS circuit.
Some recommended troubleshooting and repair steps are:
TIP: A visitor to our site offered this tip – a P0122 Code can also occur when the TPS is not ROTATED as it is installed. (The tab inside the sensor MUST be touching the rotating pins in the throttle body. In a 3.8L GM engine, this means inserting it with the connector at 12 o’clock before rotating it to 9 o’clock for the final mounting position.)
Other TPS sensor and circuit related DTCs: P0120, P0121, P0123, P0124
