This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the throttle position sensor (TPS) on the 1.5L turbo engine, which monitors throttle blade position for the engine control unit.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Throttle Position Sensor × 1 — Honda OEM part 37971-5AA-A01 or equivalent
• Throttle body gasket (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is cold and ignition is off with key removed
2. Remove engine cover by pulling up on cover clips (no tools required)
3. Locate the throttle body on the driver's side of the intake manifold
4. Identify the throttle position sensor mounted on the side of the throttle body with two small screws

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect throttle position sensor connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the TPS. Press down on the locking tab while pulling the connector straight away from the sensor. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If connector is difficult to remove, use a small flathead screwdriver to carefully release the locking tab.
2. 2

   Remove TPS mounting screws
   Using a Philips screwdriver, remove the two TPS mounting screws. These screws are small and can fall easily, so work carefully. Keep screws in a secure location for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   TPS Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Remove throttle position sensor
   Carefully pull the TPS straight out from the throttle body. The sensor shaft fits over the throttle plate shaft. If sensor is stuck, gently wiggle it while pulling. Do not pry against the throttle body housing as this may cause damage.
4. 4

   Inspect throttle body shaft and mounting surface
   Examine the throttle plate shaft for any wear or damage. Check the mounting surface on the throttle body for dirt, debris, or damage. Clean the mounting surface with electrical contact cleaner if needed. Ensure the O-ring groove is clean and undamaged.
5. 5

   Prepare new throttle position sensor
   Remove new TPS from packaging. Check that the O-ring seal is properly seated in the groove on the sensor body. Apply a light coating of dielectric grease to the O-ring if desired to aid installation and provide corrosion protection.
6. 6

   Install new throttle position sensor
   Align the sensor shaft opening with the throttle plate shaft. The sensor will only fit in one orientation due to the D-shaped shaft profile. Push the sensor straight onto the throttle body until it seats flush against the mounting surface. Ensure the sensor does not bind or stick.
7. 7

   Install and torque TPS screws
   Insert both TPS mounting screws by hand, threading them in evenly. Once both screws are started, use an inch-pound torque wrench to tighten them to specification in a cross pattern. These screws are very small and over-tightening will strip the threads in the throttle body housing.
   ⚠Critical torque specification - these screws require only 3.0 Nm (2.0 lb-ft) and are easily over-torqued
   Torque spec

   TPS Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector straight onto the TPS until you hear and feel a positive click. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked in place. Ensure no wires are pinched or strained.
9. 9

   Reinstall engine cover
   Position the engine cover over the engine and press down firmly on all clip locations until each clip snaps into place. Verify the cover is secure and seated properly.

Reassembly

1. Engine cover clips should snap firmly into place without excessive force
2. Verify all electrical connections are secure and properly locked
3. Ensure no tools or parts have been left in the engine bay

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine - check that no warning lights illuminate on dashboard
• Start the engine and verify it idles smoothly without stalling or hunting
• Gently press accelerator pedal and confirm smooth throttle response without hesitation
• Use an OBD-II scanner to verify no diagnostic trouble codes are present related to throttle position
• Perform a brief test drive to confirm normal acceleration and no check engine light illumination

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