P0120 on Volvo: How to Diagnose & Fix
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction
3 Volvo models · 3 documented issues · 3 critical · $300-$800 repair
P0120 on Volvo by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
This is the same ETM failure as on the S70/V70/S80/S60 Volvos of the same era (the first-gen C70 shares the P80 platform with the 850/S70). The first-generation C70 (1999-2005) is most susceptible.
Common Symptoms
- Reduced power mode
- Stalling
- Check engine light
How to Fix
Confirm ETM failure by scanning for throttle-related DTCs such as P0121, P0221, P2135, or limp-home faults, then use live data to verify erratic throttle angle signals and inspect the ETM connector and wiring before condemning the unit. On 1999-2001 C70 models, the usual fix is replacement of the original Magneti Marelli electronic throttle module with the updated Volvo unit or a professionally rebuilt contactless-sensor ETM, followed by a software download and throttle adaptation with Volvo's dealer diagnostic tool (VIDA/DiCE). Clean the throttle bore only if carbon buildup is minor; cleaning will not repair worn internal position sensors. Typical repair cost is about $700-$1,400 depending on whether a new OEM ETM, rebuilt unit, and dealer software reload are required.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- XeMODeX VO.1020 pre-programmed contactless Volvo electronic throttle module
replace a scan-data-confirmed internal ETM sensor failure with a VIN-preprogrammed contactless unit Fitment/availability: 1999-2004 Volvo C70 Turbo ME7 electronic-throttle branch; VIN and original module information are required for pre-…
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (4)
The drive-by-wire throttle body contacts wear internally. 1999-2002 V70s (late P80 and early P2) are most affected.
Common Symptoms
- Reduced power mode
- Stalling
- Check engine light
- Intermittent throttle response
How to Fix
Confirm ETM failure by scanning for throttle-related Volvo/OBD-II codes such as ECM-91A7, ECM-91B7, P0121, P0221, or limp-home faults, then compare live throttle angle and pedal position data for erratic readings. On 1999-2002 V70 models with the Magneti Marelli electronic throttle, the proper repair is replacement with the updated contactless ETM or a professionally rebuilt unit, followed by software download/ETM adaptation using VIDA/DiCE or dealer-level programming. Also inspect and clean the throttle connector and check for wiring or vacuum issues before condemning the unit. Typical total cost is about $500-$900 for a rebuilt/upgraded ETM installed, or roughly $900-$1,400 with a new unit and dealer software/labor.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- XeMODeX VO.1020.36001822.00.24 pre-programmed contactless Volvo ETM
replace a diagnosed failed ETM with a pre-programmed contactless unit and return the original core Fitment/availability: 1999-2001 Volvo V70 turbo or 1999-2002 V70 non-turbo with a matching Magneti Marelli ETM/reference number and VIN-co…
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (2)
The S70 uses a drive-by-wire Electronic Throttle Module (ETM) made by Magneti Marelli. Its throttle position sensors can fail, and Volvo also blamed a dirty throttle housing and software calibration. When the sensor readings stop making sense, the engine computer sets a fault and drops the car into limp-home mode. Volvo said this sometimes happened when it wasn't needed. Owners report uneven idle, stalling, an "ETS" or Check Engine warning, and a throttle that barely responds. In NHTSA's investigation (EA05021), these failures also caused sudden forward lunging at low speed and faltering during high-speed merges. Volvo's warranty data showed limp-mode ETM fault codes on about 4.5% of the vehicles under investigation. In the US and Canada, Volvo extended ETM coverage from 7 years/70,000 miles to 10 years/200,000 miles for 1999-2002 cars. That extension has now expired for every S70. In March 2006, Volvo released a throttle software update, which became the remedy for recall 06V441000.
Common Symptoms
- Reduced power mode
- Stalling
- Check engine light
- Rough idle
- Throttle not responding
How to Fix
1. Read the codes first. With VIDA, a Volvo dealer or a shop that has it can check for ETM codes such as ECM-9150 and ECM-9160. An ETM sweep test graph can show faulty sensor readings. 2. Before condemning the module, check its power supply: fuse #2, the engine management relay, the separate ETM relay (1999 models only), and the main relay and B+ terminal at the fuse box. A replacement power lead is Volvo part 8628771. 3. Make sure the car has Volvo's 2006 throttle software update (recall 06V441000). This software upgrade was the recall remedy, because Volvo found that some limp-mode events were triggered when they didn't need to be. 4. If buildup is blocking the butterfly, remove the module (four bolts, 10 mm deep socket). Clean the housing and butterfly, then refit it with a new gasket (Volvo part 31430474). Do not use compressed air when cleaning. 5. If the codes or sweep test still show sensor faults, replace the ETM. FCP Euro says ETMs can be swapped between cars without a dealer software update, but a turbo car needs a unit from another turbo car, and a non-turbo car needs one from a non-turbo car. The same author says the later "yellow label" units last a bit longer than the original "white label" ones, and reports that a used junkyard unit can cost as little as $40. Coverage: the US/Canada 10-year/200,000-mile ETM extension has expired for all S70s, and the 2006 recall covered only the software. Volvo set up a reimbursement procedure for owners who paid for earlier ETM repairs. Any repair done today is at the owner's expense.
What you need to diagnose it
The repair instructions explicitly call for reading stored codes. Use a scanner that can read the named code families before choosing a repair.The recommended scanner supports these code families; confirm your exact year, model and module coverage before buying.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
Read & clear engine (P) codes
$20–$40View
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices are approximate and may vary.
Reading and clearing the code is DIY work. Module replacement or reprogramming is not — most modules are VIN-programmed, so a new one does nothing until a shop codes it to your car. Check for an open recall or service bulletin before buying anything.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- XeMODeX VO.1020 pre-programmed contactless Volvo electronic throttle module
replace a scan-data-confirmed internal S70 ETM sensor failure with a VIN-preprogrammed contactless unit Fitment/availability: 1999-2000 Volvo S70 Turbo and non-turbo Magneti Marelli electronic-throttle branch; VIN and original-module det…
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (5)
- CARB - Air Resources Board cuts agreement with Volvo to extend warranty for faulty emissions component (ETM)article
- Volvo Club UK - Electronic Throttle Module (ETM/ETS) informationarticle
- FCP Euro - 3 reasons a 1999-2000 ETM Volvo is a great buyarticle
- NHTSA EA05021: Volvo Throttle Control Malfunction (CarComplaints)investigation
- Electronic Throttle Module (ETM) - AutomotiveTechInfotechnical-article
P0120 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0120 mean on a Volvo?
P0120 stands for "Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction." This code indicates a malfunction in the throttle position or accelerator pedal position sensor circuit. These sensors tell the computer how far the throttle plate is open or how far you've pressed the pedal, which the computer uses to control engine power and, on drive-by-wire systems, the throttle itself. When the signal is out of range, erratic, or doesn't make sense relative to other inputs, P0120 sets. Symptoms can include hesitation, surging, stalling, or the vehicle entering a reduced-power 'limp' mode for safety. On Volvo it is documented across 3 models: C70, V70, S70.
What are the most common causes of P0120?
The most common causes of P0120 are: Failed throttle position sensor, Corroded or loose TPS/pedal sensor connector, Damaged or shorted sensor wiring, Carbon buildup or a sticking throttle body, Worn throttle body or throttle plate, Poor sensor reference voltage or ground, Faulty accelerator pedal position sensor, Faulty PCM/ECM (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0120 on a Volvo?
Published repair estimates on Volvo range from $300 to $800 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0120 on a different make?
View P0120 across all makes →Join 700+ subscribers following Au7o for vehicle insights and updates.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.