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P0124 — Throttlepedal Position Sensorswitch Circuit Intermittent

Generic OBD-II · all makesPowertrain (engine & transmission)

The code indicates that the throttle position sensor signal to the PCM is intermittent, meaning the voltage from the sensor is sometimes out of expected range or missing.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Faulty throttle position sensor

The sensor can develop internal intermittent failures that cause voltage spikes or drops outside the normal range.

2. Damaged or loose wiring/connector

Corroded pins, broken wires, or a loose connector between the sensor and PCM can create intermittent signal loss.

3. Poor ground or power supply to the sensor circuit

If the sensor's reference voltage or ground is compromised, the signal may become erratic.

4. Faulty PCM (control module)

A rare PCM failure can misinterpret the sensor signal, but this is usually considered only after other causes are ruled out.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Inspect the throttle position sensor wiring and connector for damage or corrosion
  2. Measure the sensor's voltage output while moving the throttle to verify it changes smoothly
  3. Check continuity and resistance of the sensor circuit and related grounds
  4. Clear the code and monitor for recurrence under varying driving conditions
  5. Replace the throttle position sensor if voltage is out of specification
  6. Only replace the PCM after all sensor and wiring issues have been eliminated

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Frequently asked

Will replacing the PCM fix P0124?

In most cases the PCM does not need replacement; the problem is usually a faulty sensor or wiring issue.

Can I continue driving with this code?

The vehicle may still run, but you could experience throttle hesitation or stall, so it should be addressed promptly.

Is the throttle position sensor the same as the accelerator pedal sensor?

No, the throttle position sensor monitors the throttle plate angle, while the accelerator pedal sensor monitors pedal position.

Do I need to reset the code after repairs?

Yes, after fixing the underlying issue the code should be cleared with a scan tool or by disconnecting the battery for a short period.