What is Error Code P1120?
The error code P1120 usually indicates that there is a problem with the vehicle's Throttle Position Sensor (TPS). This error indicates that the voltage signal from the sensor is outside the expected range. TPS monitors the throttle clearance and sends this information to the engine control unit (ECU), regulating the engine's air-fuel mixture.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of error code P1120:
1. Decline in Engine Performance
Acceleration Problems: When the accelerator pedal is pressed, the vehicle does not accelerate properly or reacts with a delay.
Acceleration Power Generation: The vehicle may show a sudden loss of power or an uneven acceleration during acceleration.
Low Engine Power: Engine power may decrease when the throttle is not operating in the correct position.
2. Fuel Consumption Issues
Increased Fuel Consumption: An incorrect reading of the throttle position can cause the engine to fail to adjust the fuel-air mixture correctly, leading to excessive fuel consumption.
3. Engine Fault Light (MIL)
Check Engine Lamp: When the engine control unit detects a problem with the throttle position sensor, it turns on the engine fault light.
4. Irregular idling
Idle Fluctuation: When the vehicle is idling, fluctuations in engine speed may occur.
Idle Stop: When the sensor data is not accurate, the engine may suddenly stop (stall) at idle.
5. Problems with Accelerator Pedal Response
Incorrect Throttle Response: When the accelerator pedal is pressed, the vehicle does not react properly, either sudden accelerations or insufficient reaction may occur.
Throttle Can Feel "Clogged": While driving, it can be felt that the accelerator pedal is working as if it has "seized".
6. Exhaust Problems
Black Smoke from the Exhaust: When the throttle position is detected incorrectly, the air-fuel mixture may deteriorate, and the unburned fuel may come out of the exhaust as black smoke.
7. Problems with Transmission Behavior
Shifting Problems: Incorrect readings in the throttle position can disrupt the gearshift timing of the transmission.
High RP VING: The engine may run at too high rpm because it does not correctly detect the throttle position.
8. The engine can go into safety mode
Safety (Limp) Mode: If the ECU detects a serious fault in the sensor, it can put the vehicle into safety mode to protect the engine. In this case, the car runs at low power, and acceleration is limited.
9. Vibration and Vibration
Engine Vibrations: Vibration may be felt in the vehicle while driving due to unstable operation of the engine.
Uneven Driving: The vehicle may move forward in a jerky manner due to the incorrect opening-closing ratio of the throttle.
10. Exhaust Emission Issues
High Emission Values: Incorrect air-fuel mixture can increase the emission values of the vehicle and cause problems in exhaust inspection.
Causes
Possible causes of error code P1120:
1. Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) Malfunctions
Sensor Wear: TPS can wear down over time, sending false or erratic voltage signals.
Improper Calibration: Disruption of the sensor's settings can cause the signal to fall outside the ECU's accepted ranges.
Physical Damage: TPS may be physically damaged (e.g., exposure to hard impacts or extreme heat).
2. Electrical Problems
Wire Harness Breakage or Damage: The wire harnesses from the TPS to the ECU may be broken, short-circuited, or oxidized.
Connector Problems: Loosening or rusting of the TPS's electrical ports can prevent the signal from being transmitted.
Low or High Voltage: Low voltage (usually below 0.5V) or high voltage (above 4.5V) in the TPS circuit will prevent the sensor from working correctly.
3. Throttle Mechanical Problems
Throttle Blockage: Carbon deposits or dirt can jam the throttle valve, causing the sensor to detect incorrect position.
Mechanical Wear: Wear of the fittings of the throttle valve can prevent the sensor from working correctly.
Jamming or Uneven Movement: If the throttle does not open and close properly, the TPS may send false signals.
4. Engine Control Unit (ECU) Problems
ECU Misreading the Sensor: The ECU may not be able to properly interpret the signal from the TPS.
ECU Software Issues: Software errors can cause the sensor signal to be detected out of range.
5. Incorrect Sensor Mounting
Improper Placement: If the TPS is not mounted in the correct position, the sensor may send the wrong signal.
Incompatible Part: Installing an improper TPS in the vehicle may cause the voltage ranges to be mismatched.
6. Other Related Sensor or System Issues
Accelerator Pedal Sensor (APP) Problems: The coordination between the throttle position sensor and the accelerator pedal position sensor may be impaired.
Defective Transmission Control Module (TCM): The TCM may not be able to correctly detect the throttle position.
Distorted Air Flow Sensor (MAF): Erroneous data from the MAF sensor can lead to incorrect detection of throttle position.
7. Operating and Operating Conditions of the Vehicle
Extreme Temperature or Humidity: Excessive temperature can affect the internal components of the sensor, causing erroneous signals.
Improper Maintenance: If the throttle system is not cleaned regularly, carbon deposits can affect sensor performance.
It is recommended to contact a specialist mechanic or authorized service for diagnosis and solution of the error.
How to Fix
You can follow the steps below to fix the error code P1120:
1. Verifying the Error Code with the OBD-II Scan Device
Verify error codes: First, verify the error code P1120 and any other related error codes using an OBD-II scanner. In some cases, other sensors or systems may also be affected.
2. Checking the Throttle Position Sensor
Visually Inspect the Sensor: Check if the TPS is physically damaged. Check for any loosening or breakage, especially in the wiring connections or at the mounting location of the sensor.
Check the Contact Status: Dirt or oxidation at the ports can cause the sensor to not work correctly. Clean the ports, if any.
Check the Throttle Clamp and Valve: If the throttle is not moving properly or is dirty, the TPS sensor may send false signals. Clean the throttle valve and clamp.
3. Electrical Control of Throttle Position Sensor
Voltage Control: Check the voltage of the TPS with a multimeter. Most sensors must operate within a certain voltage range (usually between 0.5V and 4.5V). If the voltage of the TPS is outside the specified range, the sensor may be faulty.
Cable Connections: Check if the wires in the sensor's connections are broken, loose, or oxidized. If there is any damage to the cables, repair or replace them.
4. Replacing the Throttle Position Sensor
Sensor Replacement: If you detect physical damage or wear on the throttle position sensor, it will be necessary to replace the sensor. The new sensor must be installed properly within the manufacturer's specified voltage range.
5. Check Transmission and Engine Control Module (ECU)
ECU Software: Check if the ECU is working correctly. Sometimes software errors can misinterpret sensor data. If a software update is required, an update can be made at an authorized service.
Transmission Control Module (TCM): If there are gear shifts or power transmission problems with the transmission, make sure that the transmission control module is working correctly.
6. Throttle Cleaning
Clean the Throttle: If the throttle valve is dirty, this can lead to the sensor reading inaccurate data. By cleaning the throttle system, remove blockages and carbon deposits.
7. Transmission Fluid and Engine Status Check
Transmission Fluid Level: A low transmission fluid level or dirty fluid can cause problems with gear changes. Check the level and quality of the liquid, replace if necessary.
Review the Engine: Make sure the engine is working properly. If there is any imbalance in the engine operation, the data from the TPS sensor may not be interpreted correctly.
8. Resetting Electronic Systems
Clear Error Code: After the repairs are made, clear the error code with the OBD-II device and restart the engine.
Take a Test Drive: Once you have cleared the error code, take your vehicle for a test drive. If the car is running properly and the engine fault lamp is not on, then the problem is solved.
By following the steps mentioned above, you can check the sensor, its connections, and the engine and transmission systems, as well as intervene in defective parts if necessary. If the problem persists, it would be best to seek help from a specialized technician, as there may be a more complex problem with the vehicle's electronic systems.
Long-Term Effects
Here are some key points that explain why error code P1120 is important:
1. Engine Performance and Acceleration Issues
Acceleration Delay: The throttle position sensor determines the engine's relationship with the accelerator pedal. When the TPS is faulty, it becomes difficult for the engine to get the right amount of fuel-air mixture. This can cause a delay in acceleration or an erratic response.
Power Loss: A faulty sensor prevents the engine from working as it should, and the vehicle does not move with the expected power, which can lead to problems while driving.
2. Fuel Efficiency
High Fuel Consumption: Erroneous data from the throttle position sensor causes the engine to fail to adjust the air-fuel mixture correctly. This, in turn, leads to excessive fuel consumption because the engine runs inefficiently.
Emission Issues: This type of breakdown can also negatively affect vehicle emissions. When the engine is not running efficiently, more dirty gases can come out of the exhaust, which negatively affects the environment.
3. Transmission and Gear Change Problems
Irregular Gear Changes: TPS helps the transmission shift correctly with engine speed and throttle position. When this sensor is faulty, the transmission may not shift properly, which affects driving comfort and safety.
Driving Safety: Incorrect throttle data can disrupt the synchronization between the transmission and the engine, causing sudden acceleration and deceleration problems. This can be dangerous, especially when driving in traffic.
4. Engine Fault Lamp Lights Up
Engine Warning Light: The error code P1120 usually notifies the engine control unit (ECU) that there is a problem. When the ECU misinterprets the data provided by the throttle position sensor, it turns on the engine fault lamp. This light alerts the driver to be aware of the problem immediately and ensures early intervention.
More Serious Problems: If the P1120 error code is ignored, a small problem can turn into a larger malfunction over time. This, in turn, can lead to costly repairs.
5. Driving Comfort and Risk of Failure
Erratic Engine Operation: Erroneous data from the throttle sensor can lead to the engine not working properly and fluctuations in idle. This causes the vehicle to run unsteadily while driving and reduces driving comfort.
Vehicle Stalling: This error can cause the vehicle to stop suddenly while idling. This creates a significant safety risk, especially in heavy traffic or at low speed.
6. Emission Control and Exhaust Issues
Failure in Emission Tests: A faulty TPS incorrectly regulates the air-fuel mixture, which can lead to vehicle failure in emissions tests. This, in turn, harms the environment and can prevent the vehicle from being legally on the road.
High Smoke from the Exhaust: An irregular air-fuel mixture can lead to black smoke coming out of the exhaust, which has negative effects on the environment and can negatively affect the vehicle's exhaust system.
7. Security Risks
Torque and Power Issues: Failure of the throttle position sensor prevents the engine from properly controlling torque and power delivery. This can lead to loss of control of the vehicle, especially at high speed or during sudden maneuvers.
Sudden Power Loss: This sensor failure can cause the motor to lose power in an instant. This can cause the driver to lose speed unexpectedly, causing traffic accidents.
The significance of the P1120 error code is that it can have serious effects on the vehicle's engine performance, fuel efficiency, emission levels, and safety. Malfunctions in the throttle position sensor can adversely affect not only the efficiency and driving comfort of the vehicle, but also its safety. Therefore, early detection and repair of this error code is beneficial for both the car owner and the environment in the long run.
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