P0122 in Your 2023 Honda HR-V: What's Wrong & Repair Cost

What Does P0122 Mean on a 2023 Honda HR-V?

A P0122 code on your 2023 Honda HR-V indicates that the engine control module has detected a throttle position sensor circuit voltage below the minimum valid threshold — less than 0.2 volts on a circuit that should report between 0.5 and 4.5 volts during normal throttle operation. The ECM interprets this sub-floor reading as definitive evidence of a circuit failure: a short to ground, a degraded connector, or an internal TPS fault that has eliminated the valid signal range entirely. The ECM's response is to engage protective operating modes that severely restrict throttle output.

The 2023 HR-V is a fully redesigned 3rd-generation model — a significant distinction from the 2nd-generation HR-V that preceded it. The 3rd-gen HR-V adopts Honda's newer 2.0L naturally aspirated i-VTEC engine (designated the LFC), replacing the 1.8L R18A used in the previous generation. The 2023 model is built on a new platform with revised engine bay architecture, a redesigned interior, and an updated version of Honda's drive-by-wire throttle system. The TPS remains integrated into the throttle body — it is not separately serviceable — but the specific throttle body part numbers and wiring harness routing differ from the 2021 model.

On a 2023 HR-V that is only 2 years old, P0122 is unexpected and should be addressed immediately under warranty. The detective's clues on a nearly-new vehicle point toward manufacturing variability, early-life component failure, or a connector issue rather than age-related degradation.

Symptoms of P0122 on the 2023 Honda HR-V

The 2023 HR-V's symptoms of P0122 are serious despite the vehicle's small size and modest 2.0L engine output:

• Sudden Check Engine Light — appearing without warning, often accompanied by Honda Sensing system alerts as those systems lose valid throttle position data
• Limp mode activation — the 2.0L engine's output is restricted to prevent uncontrolled throttle behavior; in a subcompact crossover this makes highway driving unsafe
• Engine stalling at idle or deceleration — the 2.0L naturally aspirated engine may stall when throttle is released to coast to a stop, especially in urban traffic conditions
• Dead or erratic accelerator response — the throttle pedal may produce no response or unpredictable behavior, making smooth city driving impossible
• Rough idle — the engine may surge or hunt for idle speed without valid TPS feedback
• Honda Sensing and safety system warnings — the 2023 HR-V's standard Honda Sensing package may display warnings or disable features as a downstream effect of TPS circuit failure

Top Causes of P0122 on the 2023 Honda HR-V

The investigation into P0122 on a 2-year-old 3rd-generation HR-V focuses on these ranked causes specific to a nearly-new vehicle:

1. Throttle body connector seating or manufacturing variability (40% of cases) — On a newly redesigned platform like the 3rd-gen HR-V, connector seating variations from the production line or early-life seal degradation can cause voltage drops in the TPS signal circuit. Even a marginal connection that passes quality checks at the factory can develop into a confirmed P0122 fault under the thermal cycling of normal operation. The connector should be inspected and reseated before any other diagnostic steps.
2. Integrated TPS failure within the 2.0L throttle body (35% of cases) — Early-life TPS failure within the throttle body — which uses Honda's integrated design where the TPS cannot be replaced separately — is the second most likely cause on a vehicle this new. This type of failure on a 2023 model is most likely a manufacturing defect and should be covered under warranty. Honda HDS live data showing a fixed low voltage regardless of throttle plate movement confirms internal TPS failure.
3. Wiring harness damage from production or service (18% of cases) — A newly designed platform sometimes has wiring routes that are not fully optimized against chafe points, and early vehicles can develop harness abrasion issues. Additionally, if the HR-V has been in for a dealer service visit, there is a small possibility the throttle body wiring was disturbed and not properly re-secured.
4. ECM software fault (5% of cases) — New vehicle platforms sometimes have ECM software that can generate false fault codes under specific operating conditions. Honda may have issued or will issue Technical Service Bulletins addressing P0122 on the 3rd-gen HR-V. Check for open TSBs with your dealer before replacing hardware.
5. Water or moisture intrusion (2% of cases) — Even on a new vehicle, improper sealing at the cowl or a damaged grommet can allow water into the TPS circuit wiring. Less likely but worth checking if the code appeared after rainfall or a dealer wash.

Estimated Repair Costs for the 2023 Honda HR-V

Given the 2023 HR-V's warranty status, out-of-pocket costs should be near zero for most owners:

• Warranty repair: $0 — the 2023 HR-V is almost certainly within Honda's 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage
• Connector repair (if out of warranty): $50–$130
• Throttle body replacement (2.0L LFC engine): $300–$490 at an independent shop; this is the new-generation throttle body with updated TPS integration
• Wiring harness repair: $150–$300
• ECM reprogramming or replacement: $200–$500+

Urgency and Warranty Guidance for 2023 HR-V Owners

P0122 is immediate urgency regardless of vehicle age. Do not continue driving a subcompact crossover with active throttle control failure.

The 2023 HR-V should be squarely within Honda's 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. The throttle body, ECM, and wiring harness are all covered components. Do not pay for any diagnosis, parts, or labor before visiting your Honda dealer — this repair should cost you nothing. The 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and 8-year/80,000-mile federal emissions warranty provide additional backup coverage as your vehicle ages.

Ask the service advisor to check for any open Technical Service Bulletins related to the 3rd-gen HR-V's throttle position sensor circuit before authorizing repairs. Software updates or revised parts may address the root cause more effectively than simply replacing the throttle body.

After any throttle body or connector service, Honda's idle relearn is required: ignition ON for 10 seconds without starting, then start and idle for 10 uninterrupted minutes.

How AutoDetective AI Can Help

AutoDetective's AI diagnostic engine can evaluate your 2023 HR-V's P0122 code against the 3rd-generation platform's emerging fault patterns, identify any open TSBs, and help you prepare for a productive dealer warranty visit. On a new platform with limited owner history, an AI-assisted diagnosis that correlates your freeze frame data and companion codes can be the difference between a one-visit resolution and multiple return trips to the dealer.