What is Fault Code P1122
Fault Code P1122 stands for "Throttle Position (TPS) Sensor Circuit Intermittent Low Voltage". This Fault indicates a problem with the electrical circuit of the throttle position sensor (TPS). It usually occurs because the voltage from the sensor is below the expected level. This leads to the correct data not being transmitted to the vehicle's engine control unit (ECU), which records this as a Fault.
Causes of Fault Code P1122
Possible causes of Fault code P1122:
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 Faults 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.
The most common causes of Fault code P1122 are associated with a malfunction of the TPS, problems with cable connections, or mechanical problems with the throttle system. This type of Fault can seriously affect the performance of the vehicle and increase fuel consumption. Therefore, it is recommended to contact a specialist mechanic or authorized service for diagnosis and solution of the Fault.
Symptoms of Fault Code P1122
Common symptoms of Fault code P1122:
1. Decline in Engine Performance
Acceleration Problems: When the accelerator pedal is pressed, the vehicle does not accelerate properly or reacts with a delay.
Unbalanced Power Generation: The vehicle may show a sudden loss of power or 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 depressed, the vehicle does not react properly; either sudden accelerations or insufficient response 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 RPVING: 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.
How to Fix
You can follow the steps below to fix the Fault code P1122:
1. Verifying the Fault Code with the OBD-II Scan Device
Verify Fault codes: First, verify the Fault code P1122 and any other related Fault 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:
Physical Damage: 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 Faults 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 Fault Code: After the repairs are made, clear the Fault code with the OBD-II device and restart the engine.
Take a Test Drive: Once you've cleared the Fault 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.
The Fault code P1122 usually refers to a problem with the throttle position sensor (TPS). 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.
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