P2122 on Chevrolet Malibu
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch D Circuit Low
Methodology: Reviewed against the SAE J2012 generic DTC definition and NHTSA owner-complaint patterns, then scoped to Chevrolet Malibu context without treating complaints as confirmed diagnoses.
Sources: SAE/OBD-II definitions, manufacturer service information, and public reliability reports (including NHTSA where applicable).
- SAE J2012 Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions — Generic diagnostic trouble code definition reference for P2122.
- NHTSA recalls, complaints, and manufacturer communications — Used to check public owner complaint context, recall status, and safety-related manufacturer communications by VIN or vehicle.
Limits: Guidance is informational and may not match every model-year or revision. Confirm with the official manual and diagnostics before replacing parts. For safety-critical or electrical work, use a qualified technician.
What P2122 Means on Your Chevrolet Malibu
P2122 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch D Circuit Low. This code relates to the powertrain system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.
Real Chevrolet Malibu Owner Reports
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
"Driving along and Reduced Engine Power warning message came on said can not go above 20 mph but yet car still could be accelerated above 20mph. Pulled over when could. Stopped car and turned it off and on. message gone but engine warning light still on. OBD2 stated P2122 error."
"Several times a week my car will suddenly go into "engine power reduced" mode and go into low speed. if i get out of the car, lock it, and unlock it 30 seconds later it will reset and then be okay for a few minutes."
"Check engine light came on. Display stated that the engine will run at reduced power which meant we had to Limp home at 15 MPH which put us in a dangerous situation. I read the code and it was P2122. Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch “D” Circuit Low Input."
"I purchased a 2017 chevy malibu in april 2017 with 11 miles. in less than a month, the car started having issues."
All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year
Common Causes on Chevrolet Malibu
Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.
What To Do Next
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1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
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2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
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3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.