C0120 Chevrolet Vectra Diagnostic Trouble Code

C0120 Chevrolet Vectra code definition:
C0120 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code for Chevrolet Vectra.

C0120 Chevrolet Vectra is defined as Knock Sensor Circuit Range Performance (Bank 1 or Single Sensor). This refers to camshaft timing, which in this case is over-retarded. The PCM then uses this data to provide the right strategies for the fuel delivery and ignition timing of the engine.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a C0120 Chevrolet Vectra diagnostic trouble code may include:

Faulty PCM
The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.
Poor acceleration
Reduction in engine performance, especially at low RPM levels

Possible Causes :

Dirty air cleaner element Damaged DPF
A plugged converter will cause of host of driveability problems as well as set this code. A severely plugged converter will result in the inability to increase rpm when under load. Look for a code such as P0421 -- catalytic converter efficiency below threshold if the converter indicating a faulty converter.
A large air leak at or near the number one oxygen sensor would also cause a lean mixture.

Common Misdiagnoses

Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Performance Problem
TP Sensor Learn Not Complete Problem
Low Coolant Circuit Problem
Cruise Control System - Vehicle Accel Too High Problem
Kick-Down Switch Failed Short Problem

Repair Processes :

If you find a related TSB, the information will often help in diagnosing the code in question as TSBs are crested from many thousands of repairs. Look for damage to the tank indicating impact that may have damaged the fuel pump or sender.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code C0120 Chevrolet Vectra is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before C0120 Chevrolet Vectra.

Fortunately, C0120 Chevrolet Vectra is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.