P0122 OBD2 Code: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnose & Fixes

You may be wondering why the check engine light is on. The numerous things that it could be freaking many people out. However, it is often a simple code. You will receive an error code. This error code will determine how you go about fixing the problem. If you end up with a P0122 OBD2 code, you will want to know all about it. Let us look.
Definition of Error Code P0122: This is a powertrain error code. It will be related to the throttle position sensor. It refers to the voltage in the sensor.

What Does Error Code P0122 Mean? 

This code will be triggered when the vehicle’s ECM or Engine Control Module detects that the voltage output is below where it should be in the Throttle Position Sensor.  The output voltage should be .17-.20 volts. If the Engine Control Module picks up that the voltage is lower, the check engine light will appear. 

Symptoms and Causes of Error Code P0122

There are several things that could happen when you see your check engine light come on. You may notice the vehicle is idling higher than normal. It may suddenly stall or surge. The vehicle may have issues will accelerating as well. 

This is sometimes caused when the TPS is mounted incorrectly. You may also find that this is commonly found on vehicles that have bad TPS wiring. A wire that goes to the ground could be short-circuited. In general, the TPS could be faulty. 

Is the Error Code Serious?

If the check engine light is on and you know the error code, is it serious? When P0122 is triggered, the Engine Control Module will automatically enter failsafe mode. This will protect the vehicle. You notice some issues. The vehicle will struggle to accelerate, it will not be able to go very fast, and it could stall suddenly. This is an issue to address quickly.

Diagnosing and Repairing 

When you are looking at the vehicle, you will want to diagnose the problem and fix it. You can easily find the error code using a scanning tool. Hook the tool up to the vehicle, and it will tell you the error code. You can have a special tool for connecting to your phone. Also, take a look at how to use an obd2 scanner easily and read error codes. If you do not have this tool, your local Autoparts store will help you. Below is the process of diagnosing and repairing the problem. 

1. You need to make sure that you do not have any other codes. Make sure that you clear the check engine light. You can do this with your scanning tool. 
2. Ensure to look at the code displayed on the device. This helps you determine what you need to fix. 
3. Ensure visually that everything looks good. Look around the TPS. You want all wiring to look good. All connections should be intact as well. If you find any issue with the wiring, fix it immediately. Once fixed, scan again. If the error persists, continue to step four. 
4. Ensure that the TPS has the correct amount. If you do not have this item mounted properly, it could read voltage incorrectly. If it is positioned incorrectly, fix it. 
5. If you find that you have done everything on the list and the error code still appears, replace the TPS. 

If you are unsure about your diagnosis, you 9*can take it to a professional. Remember, you can have a professional diagnose the problem, and you can still fix it. However, it will be much more expensive when you get a professional involved. If the problem is persisting, make sure that someone is fixing the problem. It is not safe to drive that vehicle until it is fixed. 

Common Diagnosing Mistakes 

You will find that many people will jump to replacing their TPS. People avoid looking at the area. They do not inspect wires or connections. Sometimes the fix is as easy as connecting a wire. Not investigating before purchasing a new TPS is going to make you lose money. 

Fixing the P0122 Error Code

As you know, the code is something you should not take lightly. You will have trouble with your vehicle if this error code is presented. You will need to address the problem quickly. Keep all steps in mind when you are fixing and diagnosing. This will ensure you that the problem is fixed. 

Avoiding This Error Code in the Future 

Taking the time to ensure that the TPS is mounted correctly is essential. If it is not mounted properly, the device cannot accurately read the voltages it needs to. This means the error code will constantly be around. You will also want to make sure that all wires leading to the TPS device are good. You do not want decaying or corroded wires. Your wires should be clean. Ensure they are all connected as well. 

You want to ensure that you are not going out and purchasing a new TPS device each time this code pops up. If the check engine light appears and this is the code, fix it. Once fixed, it should not be a problem any longer. 

Wrapping Up

Diagnosing the problem is the biggest step. You need to ensure that the code you are given is what you look for. You want to ensure that you fix the problem so that it does not come back. If you fix this error code, it should not come back. It is something that you need to take seriously. 

Error code P0122 will make your vehicle run terribly. This is because the Engine Control Module is protecting the engine. It will not run as it should. The vehicle will have many tell-tale signs as well. This includes acceleration troubles and stalling. 

Taking the time to fix this error properly is essential. You do not want to have issues accelerating and problems with stalling. This could be dangerous if you are on a busy road. Your vehicle stalling could be dangerous.

Related code: Fix P0121 OBD2 Error Code (TPS Circuit Range Issue)