What is the P0123 fault code Throttle/Accelerator Position Sensor/Switch “A” Circuit High What is the description of the input malfunction? How do I fix the P0123 fault code What are the symptoms and causes for the P0123 fault code
What is the P0123 Fault code? What does it signify?
The throttle position (TPS sensor) is a component of the engine computer that determines optimal ignition timing. This sensor determines the openness of the throttle valve. Two throttle position sensors are used by vehicles with electronic throttle control (ETC). This is a failsafe measure. The fault code P0123 is stored in memory when the throttle position sensor’s signal exceeds the maximum limit.
The throttle position (TPS sensor) sensor is an electronic potentiometer that is built into the throttle body. It measures the angle of the throttle blade, and transmits it to the throttle module/powertrain control module (PCM/ECM). The P0123 malfunction code is issued if the signal from the sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold (more that 4.54 volts by the engine manufacturer) for a specified period of time (more then 2 seconds).
ETC vehicles use two accelerator pedal position (APP), sensors to determine how hard the accelerator pedal is being depressed. If the TPS sensor is not working properly, code P0123 may be used.
Other fault codes that can be attributed to the TPS circuit and sensor: P0120; P0121; P0122; P0124
What causes the P0123 Fault code?
- – Defective throttle positioning sensor
- – Defective accelerator pedal position sensor
- – Throttle/Pedal Position sensor circuit problems (for example, damaged wires or loose connections).
- – Short circuit in TPS sensor voltage signal
- Incorrect installation of TPS sensor
- – A dirty or defective throttle body
- – Defective PCM / ECM / ECU
What are the symptoms for the P0123 fault code?
The PCM can cut off the current to the throttle actuator to set the plate clearance for the throttle valve to 6 degrees. It can also put the vehicle in safe mode by putting the PCM on the power supply. Different symptoms can be experienced depending upon the PCM strategy used by vehicle manufacturers.
- – Illumination for the check engine light
- – Engine hesitation during acceleration
- – Unusual operation of the engine
- – Increased idle speed
- Vehicle stalling
- – The vehicle can be driven slowly with limited throttle response when it enters safe mode.
How do I fix the P0123 fault code?
- – Clear the codes and test the vehicle again to make sure it works.
- Repair of damaged cables or loose connections
- – TPS circuits A and B should be checked for errors and data should be compared.
- – Replacing the TPS sensor that is defective
How Serious Is the P0123 Fault Code
P0123 code can cause the PCM’s vehicle to go into safe mode. This can result in various driving issues. The safe mode strategy of the manufacturer may cause problems like low acceleration, high idle speed and engine hesitation during acceleration. This can cause engine damage. It is important to diagnose the problem immediately and fix it as soon as you can.
