This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the throttle position sensor (TPS) on the 2.5L I4 engine, including electrical disconnect and proper installation torque.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Throttle Position Sensor × 1 — Use OEM specification
• TPS mounting screws (if corroded) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely (minimum 1 hour after running)
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 2 minutes for system discharge
5. Locate throttle body on driver side of engine intake manifold

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove engine cover if equipped
   Remove plastic engine cover by pulling upward on the cover to release the rubber grommets from the mounting posts. Set cover aside in clean area.
2. 2

   Access throttle body area
   If necessary, disconnect any vacuum hoses or wiring harnesses obstructing access to the throttle body. Label connections with tape for reassembly reference.
3. 3

   Disconnect TPS electrical connector
   Locate the TPS electrical connector on the side of the throttle body. Press down on the locking tab while pulling the connector straight away from the sensor. Do not pull on wires.
4. 4

   Remove TPS mounting screws
   Using a small flat-blade screwdriver or 10mm socket, carefully remove the two TPS mounting screws. These are low-torque fasteners, so turn gently. Keep screws in a safe location for reuse unless damaged.
   ⚠TPS screws are very low torque (3.0 Nm). Apply minimal force during removal to prevent stripping
   Torque spec

   TPS Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove throttle position sensor
   Carefully pull the TPS straight away from the throttle body shaft. The sensor should separate easily. If resistance is felt, gently wiggle while pulling. Do not pry or twist excessively.
6. 6

   Inspect throttle body shaft and mounting surface
   Examine the throttle shaft for wear or damage. Clean the TPS mounting surface on the throttle body with electrical contact cleaner and a shop towel. Ensure no debris or corrosion is present. Check mounting screw threads for damage.
7. 7

   Install new throttle position sensor
   Align the new TPS with the throttle shaft, ensuring the sensor tab aligns with the flat on the shaft. Push sensor firmly into place until it seats completely against the throttle body mounting surface. The sensor should only fit in one orientation.
8. 8

   Install TPS mounting screws
   Thread both TPS mounting screws by hand to prevent cross-threading. Once both screws are started, tighten them in alternating pattern using a torque wrench to the specified torque of 3.0 Nm (2.0 lb-ft). Do not overtighten.
   ⚠Critical torque specification: 3.0 Nm (2.0 lb-ft). Overtightening will damage sensor housing or throttle body
   Torque spec

   TPS Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect TPS electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector onto the new TPS until the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
10. 10

    Reinstall removed components
    Reconnect any vacuum hoses or wiring harnesses that were moved during access. Reinstall engine cover if equipped by aligning grommets with mounting posts and pressing down firmly.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and initialize system
    Reconnect negative battery terminal. Turn ignition to ON position (do not start engine) and wait 30 seconds to allow ECU to initialize the new TPS. The throttle system will perform a self-calibration sequence.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connections are fully seated with locking tabs engaged
2. Verify TPS mounting screws are torqued to specification and sensor is flush against throttle body
3. Confirm engine cover is properly seated if reinstalled

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine; check for dashboard warning lights related to throttle system
• Start engine and verify smooth idle with no surging or stalling
• Test throttle response by gently pressing accelerator pedal; acceleration should be smooth and linear
• Use OBD-II scanner to verify no diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to throttle position sensor
• Perform test drive to confirm normal throttle operation under various loads and speeds
• Re-initialize power windows and sunroof as needed per owner's manual procedure

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