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DTC P1120: ACCELERATOR PEDAL POSITION SENSOR CIRCUIT MALFUNCTION Lexus ES XV30

CAUTIONIf ECM replacement is instructed in following testing, always ensure ECM harness connector and ground circuit are okay. If either are suspect, repair and repeat testing to confirm ECM malfunction. If ECM is replaced, ECM must be programmed with proper ignition key code for engine immobilizer system. For programming procedures, see COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES - IMPORT article in GENERAL INFORMATION.

Circuit Description

The accelerator pedal position sensor is a 2 variable resistor sensor that monitors throttle opening and accelerator pedal position sensor malfunction. ECM controls throttle motor and electromagnetic clutch based on signal from accelerator pedal position sensor. If DTC P1120 is set, ECM shuts down power to throttle control motor.

DTC P1120 is set when ECM consistently detects .2 volt or less, or 4.8 volts or more from VPA1 circuit, or .5 volt or less from VPA2 circuit for 2 seconds. DTC P1120 is also set when ECM consistently detects .2 volt or more and 1.8 volts or less from VPA1 circuit, and 4.97 volts or more from VPA2 circuit for 2 seconds.

DTC P1120 is also set when ECM consistently detects .2 volt or less from VPA1 or VPA2 circuit for 2 seconds. Possible causes are

  1. Open or short circuit in accelerator pedal position sensor.
  2. Faulty accelerator pedal position sensor.
  3. Faulty ECM.

Diagnostic Aids

Using scan tool, read freeze frame data. Freeze frame records engine conditions when malfunction is detected.