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P0120 — Throttle Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction

Medium Severity  ·  Engine

OBD-II code P0120 means your vehicle's ECU detected: Throttle Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction. Below: causes, step-by-step fixes, and repair cost — free, no signup needed.

Drivable short-term but schedule a diagnosis soon. Prolonged driving can worsen the issue.
Typical Repair Cost
$100–$500
Parts + labor, national average
Severity
Medium
Schedule repair soon
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Common Causes of P0120

  • Failed TPS
  • Dirty throttle body
  • Wiring issue
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How to Fix Code P0120

1
Clean throttle body
2
Test TPS voltage
3
Replace TPS ($50–$200)

FAQ — Code P0120

What does OBD-II code P0120 mean?
P0120 means your vehicle's onboard computer detected: Throttle Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction. This is a medium-severity code in the Engine category.
How much does it cost to fix code P0120?
Typical repair cost for P0120 is $100–$500 including parts and labor. Costs vary by vehicle make, model, and location. A free scan at AutoZone or O'Reilly is a good first step.
Can I drive my car with code P0120?
Code P0120 is generally safe for short trips, but have it diagnosed soon to prevent the problem from worsening.
What are the most common causes of P0120?
The most common causes are: Failed TPS, Dirty throttle body, Wiring issue. Always start with the cheapest diagnosis step before replacing parts.
Will code P0120 clear itself?
Code P0120 will clear itself after the underlying issue is fixed and the ECU completes several successful drive cycles. Clearing it without fixing the root cause only masks the problem temporarily.

Is P0120 showing on your car?

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OBD-II code data is based on SAE J2012 standards and general repair industry data. Repair costs are national averages and vary by vehicle, location, and shop. Always consult a qualified mechanic for a diagnosis specific to your vehicle.