DTC P0121 Throttle / Pedal Position Sensor / Switch "A" Circuit Range / Performance Problem
DTC P0121 Throttle / Pedal Position Sensor / Switch "A" Circuit Range / Performance Problem
DTC
P0121
Throttle / Pedal Position Sensor / Switch "A" Circuit Range / Performance Problem
DESCRIPTION
Refer to DTC P0120 (See page ES-110).
DTC No. P0121 DTC Detection Conditions Difference between VTA1 and VTA2 voltages less than 0.8 V, or more than 1.6 V for 2 seconds (1 trip detection logic) Trouble Areas Throttle position (TP) sensor (built into throttle body)
ES
MONITOR DESCRIPTION
The ECM uses the TP sensor to monitor the throttle valve opening angle. This sensor transmits two signals: VTA1 and VTA2. VTA1 is used to detect the throttle opening angle and VTA2 is used to detect malfunctions in VTA1. The ECM performs several checks to confirm the proper operation of the TP sensor and VTA1. For each throttle opening angle, a specific voltage difference is expected between the outputs of VTA1 and VTA2. If the voltage output difference between the two signals deviates from the normal operating range, the ECM interprets this as a malfunction of the TP sensor. The ECM illuminates the MIL and sets the DTC. If the malfunction is not repaired successfully, the DTC is set 2 seconds after the engine is next started.
MONITOR STRATEGY
Related DTCs Required Sensors/Components (Main) Required Sensors/Components (Related) Frequency of Operation Duration MIL Operation Sequence of Operation P0121: TP sensor rationality TP sensor Continuous Within 2 seconds Immediate None
ES125
FAIL-SAFE
When this DTC, as well as other DTCs relating to ETCS (Electronic Throttle Control System) malfunctions, is set, the ECM enters fail-safe mode. During fail-safe mode, the ECM cuts the current to the throttle actuator off, and the throttle valve is returned to a 6.5 throttle angle by the return spring. The ECM then adjusts the engine output by controlling the fuel injection (intermittent fuel-cut) and ignition timing, in accordance with the accelerator pedal opening angle, to allow the vehicle to continue at a minimal speed. If the accelerator pedal is depressed firmly and gently, the vehicle can be driven slowly. Fail-safe mode continues until a pass condition is detected, and the ignition switch is then turned to OFF.
WIRING DIAGRAM
Refer to DTC P0120 (See page ES-114). HINT: Read freeze frame data using the intelligent tester. Freeze frame data records the engine conditions when a malfunction is detected. When troubleshooting, freeze frame data can help determine if the vehicle was running or stopped, if the engine was warmed up or not, if the air-fuel ratio was lean or rich, and other data from the time the malfunction occurred.
ES
CHECK ANY OTHER DTC OUTPUT (IN ADDITION TO DTC P0121) (a) (b) (c) (d) Connect a intelligent tester to the DLC3. Turn the ignition switch to ON. Turn the tester ON. Select the following menu items: DIAGNOSIS / ENHANCED OBD II / DTC INFO / CURRENT CODES. (e) Read DTCs. Result
Display (DTC output) P0121 and other DTCs P0121 Proceed to B A
HINT: If any DTCs other than P0121 are output, troubleshoot those DTCs first. B A REPLACE THROTTLE BODY GO TO DTC CHART