Description
OBD-II Trouble Code Description for P0120 Hummer
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch “A” Circuit
What does this mean?
OBD2 Code P0120 Hummer definition:
The TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) is a potentiometer that is mounted to the throttle body. It detects the throttle blade angle. As the throttle blade moves, the TPS sends a signal to the PCM (Powertrain Control Module). Usually a three wire sensor: A 5 volt reference from the PCM to the TPS, a ground from the PCM to the TPS, and a signal return from the TPS to the PCM.
The TPS sends the throttle position information back to the PCM on this signal wire. When the throttle is closed the signal is near .45 volts. At WOT (Wide Open Throttle) the TPS signal voltage will approach a full 5 volts. When the PCM sees a voltage that is outside of normal operating range, P0120 Hummer will set.
NOTE: The PCM knows that any large change in throttle position means a cooresponding change in manifold pressure (MAP). On some models the PCM will monitor MAP and TPS operation for comparison. Meaning that if the PCM sees a large percentage change in throttle position, it expects to see a cooresponding change in manifold pressure and vice versa. If it doesn’t see this comparitive change, P0120 Hummer may set. This doesn’t apply to all models.
Symptoms
Possible sumptoms of OBD code P0120 Hummer
Potential symptoms include:
MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) illumination
Misfiring at idle or at highway speed
Poor idle quality
Possibly won’t idle
Possibly starts and stalls
Causes
Possible causes of OBD code P0120 Hummer
Potential causes of the P0120 Hummer code include:
Sticking throttle return spring
MAP or TPS connector corrosion
Misrouted harness causing chafing
Bad TPS
Bad PCM
Possible Solutions
If you have access to a scan tool, with KOEO (Key on engine off) observe the TPS voltage. With throttle closed, voltage should be about .45 volts. It should gradually sweep upwards to approximately 4.5 to 5 volts as you depress the throttle. Sometimes only a scope can capture an intermittent glitch in the TPS signal voltage. If you notice a glitch in the TPS sweep voltage, replace the TPS.
NOTE: Some TPS sensors require fine adjustment. If you aren’t comfortable with using a DVOM (Digital Volt Ohm meter) to adjust the new TPS, then it’s best to take the vehicle to a shop. If the voltage is not .45 volts (+or- .3 volts or so) with the throttle closed or if the reading is “stuck” then unplug the TPS connector. With KOEO check for 5 volts reference voltage present at the connector and a good ground. You can check the signal circuit for continuity by jumping a fused wire between the ground circuit of the TPS connector and the signal circuit. If the TPS reading on the scan tool now reads zero, then replace the TPS. However if that doesn’t change the reading to zero, then check for an open or a short on the signal wire and if none is found, suspect a bad PCM. If manipulating the TPS wiring harness causes any change in idle, then suspect bad TPS.
The OBD2 Code Information Be Applicable For Hummer:
2009 Hummer H3T Alpha,2008 Hummer HX Concept,2008 Hummer H3 Wagon Concept,2008 Hummer H3 Alpha,2008 Hummer H2,2007 Hummer H3 Open Top,2007 Hummer H3X,2007 Hummer H3R Off Road Concept,2007 Hummer H2 Safari Concept,2006 Hummer H3,2006 Hummer H2 SUT Limited Edition,2006 Hummer H1 Alpha,2005 Hummer H3 Street,2005 Hummer H2 SUT,2004 Hummer H2 SUT Concept,2004 Hummer H2H Hydrogen Concept,2004 Hummer H2,2004 Hummer H1,2003 Hummer Humvee Military Vehicle,2003 Hummer H3T Concept,2003 Hummer H2 with GM Accessories,2003 Hummer H2 SUV,2003 Hummer H2 SUT Dirt Sport Concept,2003 Hummer H1,2003 Hummer Bike,2002 Hummer H2 SUV Concept,2002 Hummer H1 10th Anniversary Edition,2002 Hummer H1,2001 Hummer H1 Alpha Concept
Note:
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