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2002 Isuzu Rodeo P1515 Code: Engine Dies Suddenly, Repeats on Same Hill with P1125 and P1295 Codes

Model: Isuzu Rodeo Fault Code: P1515 Posted: 2009-10-05 00:00

I own a 2002 Isuzu Rodeo with a V6 engine. The vehicle will suddenly shut off while driving, with the tachometer dropping rapidly. Sometimes it restarts on its own, but this happens intermittently. Last week, as we approached the top of a hill, I released the accelerator and the car shifted into power management mode — triggering the P1515 code. At that time, the vehicle also displayed P1125 (ECT Limit Performance Mode) and P1295 (ECT Power Management Mode). I replaced the throttle body with an LKQ unit, which reduced the frequency of stalling but introduced a high idle and difficulty in stopping the engine. I then replaced the throttle position sensor on that same throttle body. The car ran smoothly for one day before the issue returned — exactly at the same spot on the hill. I'm now seeking help to understand what's causing this behavior. Could it be related to wiring, a faulty MAF sensor, or another underlying mechanical issue? This vehicle has only 75K miles and I’m concerned about long-term reliability. Thanks for any insights or troubleshooting steps!

Related fault codes
P1515
Comments (7)
Anonymous 2009-10-05 05:35

Could you clarify what each diagnostic code means, especially P1515, P1125, and P1295? Understanding the definitions will help in diagnosing the root cause.

Anonymous 2009-10-05 07:44

P1515 indicates a command-to-actual throttle position sensor (TPS) correlation error. P1125 triggers ETC limit performance mode, and P1295 activates ETC power management mode — both suggest the engine control system is restricting power due to sensor or signal issues.

Anonymous 2009-10-05 16:49

The issue returned with new codes: P1299 (ECT Forced Engine Shutdown), P1125, P1275 (ETC Power Management Mode), and P1515. Is a faulty MAF sensor likely? Or could it be a wiring short in the harness? The vehicle has only 75K miles — I'm surprised that my 1998 Chevrolet S10 with 158K miles still runs fine and passes smog.

Anonymous 2009-10-05 17:03

While a faulty MAF sensor is possible, vacuum leaks or EGR system malfunctions should also be ruled out. Since the Isuzu Rodeo V6 shares engine architecture with GM trucks from that era, swapping the MAF sensor between your two vehicles could help isolate whether it's the sensor or another component.

Anonymous 2009-10-05 22:23

My Isuzu Rodeo has a V6 with on-the-fly throttle control, while my S10 is a 4-cylinder with cable-based throttle — which may explain different performance characteristics and reliability in real-world driving conditions.

Anonymous 2009-10-07 12:22

This issue is quite common in 2002 Isuzu Rodeos. I recently repaired a similar case with identical symptoms. The most likely cause is a broken wire between the throttle body and the ECM. A new harness or a re-wired connection can resolve this. If you email me, I’ll provide pin numbers, wire colors, and testing procedures — the fault is only detectable when the reduced power warning light is illuminated.

Anonymous 2009-10-07 15:32

It's possible that the wiring harness is physically stressed or flexed under certain vehicle articulations — especially during cornering or on hills. This movement could cause intermittent connection loss, leading to recurring P1515 errors at the same location and time.