P0120
Powertrain Codes
P0120 - NISSAN - Throttle Position Sensor Signal Range/Performance
Symptoms
- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)
Possible Causes
- Throttle position sensor harness is open or shorted
- Throttle position sensor circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty throttle position sensor.
When Detected
Malfunction is detected when an excessively low or high voltage from the sensor is sent to ECM.
Tech Notes
There is a Nissan bulletin for the following models:
1995-1996 Nissan Maxima
1995-1997 Nissan Sentra/200SX
1996-1997 Nissan Truck
1995-1997 Nissan Altima
1996-1997 Nissan Pathfinder
1995-1996 Nissan 240SX
1996-1997 Nissan Quest
Nissan Service Bulletin OBDII Code P0120
Description
The throttle position sensor (TPS) responds to the accelerator pedal movement. This sensor is a kind of potentiometer which transforms the throttle position into output voltage, and emits the voltage signal to the ECM. In addition, the sensor detects the opening and closing speed of the throttle valve and feeds the voltage signal to the ECM.
Idle position of the throttle valve is determined by the ECM receiving the signal from the throttle position sensor. This sensor controls engine operation such as fuel cut. On the other hand, the Wide open and closed throttle position switch, which is built into the throttle position sensor unit, is not used for engine control.