HomeTrouble CodesP2124

P2124 — Throttlepedal Position Sensorswitch D Circuit Intermittent

Manufacturer-specificPowertrain (engine & transmission)

P2124 indicates an intermittent fault in the 'D' circuit of the throttle/pedal position sensor or switch. The engine control module detects that the signal from this sensor is missing, erratic, or out of range for a period of time, which can affect throttle response.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Faulty throttle/pedal position sensor (APP sensor) internal intermittent open/short

The sensor itself may develop an internal break or short that only appears under certain pedal positions or temperatures, causing the D‑circuit signal to drop out.

2. Damaged wiring or chafed harness in the sensor circuit

Wires leading to the pedal position sensor can suffer abrasion, pinching, or heat damage, producing an intermittent connection that triggers the code.

3. Corroded or loose connector at the sensor or PCM harness

Moisture, dirt, or vibration can cause corrosion or a loose fit in the sensor connector, leading to sporadic signal loss.

4. Poor ground or power supply to the sensor circuit

If the sensor's reference voltage or ground becomes intermittent due to a faulty ground strap or power feed, the PCM may see an invalid signal.

5. PCM/ECM input circuit failure (rare)

The PCM's internal circuit that reads the sensor signal can fail, but this is uncommon and should be considered only after sensor, wiring, and connector checks are normal.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Retrieve freeze‑frame data and note conditions when P2124 set (e.g., pedal position, engine load).
  2. Visually inspect the accelerator pedal position sensor, its wiring harness, and connectors for signs of wear, chafing, corrosion, or loose pins.
  3. With the key on (engine off), measure sensor output voltage at the PCM connector while slowly moving the pedal through its full range; look for drops, spikes, or missing voltage.
  4. Perform continuity and resistance checks on each wire between the sensor and PCM, verifying no opens or shorts to ground or power.
  5. Check sensor ground and reference voltage at the sensor connector; ensure they are within manufacturer specifications.
  6. If all sensor and wiring tests pass, monitor the PCM's received signal with a scan tool while operating the pedal; if the PCM still shows an intermittent loss, consider PCM testing or replacement as a last resort.

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationManufacturer-specific (P1/B1/C1/U1)

Frequently asked

Is it common to replace the PCM for a P2124 code?

No. The PCM is rarely the cause of P2124. Most intermittent faults are due to the pedal position sensor, its wiring, or connectors. PCM replacement should only be considered after those components have been verified good.

Can I clear the code and keep driving if the vehicle seems fine?

Clearing the code without fixing the underlying intermittent fault may allow the code to return, and the condition could worsen, potentially leading to stalling or reduced power. It is best to diagnose and repair the issue.

What does the 'D' circuit refer to in the throttle/pedal position sensor?

Many pedal position sensors have multiple output circuits (A, B, C, D) for redundancy. The D circuit is one of those signals; an intermittent fault in this specific circuit triggers P2124.

Will a dirty throttle body cause P2124?

A dirty throttle body does not directly affect the pedal position sensor circuit. However, if the throttle body is stuck or binding, it may cause abnormal pedal sensor readings, but the code itself points to the sensor or its circuit, not the throttle body.