P1542high severityPowertrain
Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor Malfunction
on 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 4.6L V8 · AWD
What this code means
The ECU detected a malfunction in the accelerator pedal position sensor. The signal does not correlate with expected values, affecting throttle control accuracy and safety.
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light
- Reduced power mode
- Poor throttle response
- Engine may only idle
- ETC warning light
Common causes
- Faulty accelerator pedal sensor
- Wiring damage to pedal sensor
- Corroded pedal connector
- Pedal sensor out of calibration
- ECU input circuit fault
Diagnostic steps
- Read accelerator pedal position values with scan tool
- Check both pedal sensor signals for proper tracking
- Inspect pedal connector and wiring
- Test sensor supply voltage
- Perform pedal adaptation
Repair notes
Replace the accelerator pedal module if the internal sensor has failed.
🔌 Don't have a code reader?
Any of these will read and clear this code — pick by how deep you want to go.
Budget handheld~$40
ANCEL AD410 →
No-phone-needed handheld — reads, clears, live data, freeze frame.
✓ ANCEL official store
Serious DIY~$100
BlueDriver Pro →
Enhanced codes (ABS, airbag, TPMS) plus repair reports.
SHOP FAVORITEShop-grade tablet~$300
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S →
Bidirectional tests, service resets, all systems.
✓ Autel official store
Pro diagnostics$1,500+
Autel MaxiSys MS906 Pro →
Full-system pro platform — topology mapping, ECU coding, the works.
✓ Autel official store
As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.
Other Powertrain codes on this vehicle
P0001
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
P0002
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
P0003
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
P0004
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
P0005
Fuel Shutoff Valve A Control Circuit/Open
P0006
Fuel Shutoff Valve A Control Circuit Low
P0007
Fuel Shutoff Valve A Control Circuit High
P0008
Engine Position System Performance - Bank 1
P0009
Engine Position System Performance - Bank 2
P0010
Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1