This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) on the 2015 Kia Forte 1.8L I4 engine, including proper electrical disconnection and torque specifications.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Throttle Position Sensor × 1 — Use OEM specification
• TPS gasket or O-ring (if applicable) × 1 — Verify with TPS assembly

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key from vehicle
3. Allow engine to cool completely (at least 30 minutes after operation)
4. If desired, disconnect negative battery terminal to clear any adaptive throttle learning values
5. Locate the throttle body assembly on the intake manifold (driver side of engine)

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the throttle body area
   Remove the engine cover if equipped by pulling upward on the cover to release the mounting grommets. Set aside in a clean area. The throttle body is located on the front left side of the engine with the TPS mounted directly on the throttle body housing.
2. 2

   Disconnect TPS electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the TPS. Press down on the locking tab (typically red or gray) while gently pulling the connector away from the sensor. If the connector is stubborn, carefully use a small flathead screwdriver to assist with releasing the locking tab. Do not pull on the wiring harness itself.
3. 3

   Remove TPS mounting screws
   Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the two TPS mounting screws that secure the sensor to the throttle body. These screws are typically located on the side of the throttle body housing. Keep the screws in a safe location for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   TPS Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove the old TPS
   Carefully pull the TPS straight away from the throttle body. The sensor shaft is keyed to the throttle plate shaft inside the throttle body. Do not twist or rotate the sensor during removal. Inspect the mounting surface on the throttle body for any debris or old gasket material.
5. 5

   Clean mounting surface
   Use a clean shop towel to wipe the TPS mounting surface on the throttle body. If equipped with a gasket or O-ring, remove the old gasket completely. Spray electrical contact cleaner on the mounting area if needed and allow to dry. Ensure no debris falls into the throttle body opening.
6. 6

   Install new TPS
   If the new TPS includes a gasket or O-ring, install it onto the sensor body before installation. Align the TPS shaft with the throttle plate shaft inside the throttle body, ensuring the keyed shaft is properly oriented. The sensor should slide on smoothly without forcing. Seat the TPS flush against the throttle body mounting surface.
7. 7

   Install and torque TPS mounting screws
   Insert both TPS mounting screws by hand and thread them in evenly. Using a torque wrench, tighten the screws to specification in a cross pattern (alternate between screws) to ensure even seating. Do not overtighten as this can crack the sensor housing.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector onto the TPS until you hear and feel a positive click indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector (not the wires) to verify it is securely locked in place.
9. 9

   Reinstall engine cover
   If an engine cover was removed, align the cover mounting grommets with the posts on the engine and press down firmly until the cover seats completely.
10. 10

    Reconnect battery and perform relearn
    If the battery was disconnected, reconnect the negative terminal. Turn the ignition to ON position (do not start engine) for 30 seconds, then turn OFF. This allows the ECU to recognize the new sensor. Start the engine and allow it to idle for 2-3 minutes to complete the throttle position relearn procedure.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify no tools or parts were left in the engine compartment
3. Double-check that TPS mounting screws are torqued to specification

Verification

• Start the engine and verify it idles smoothly without surging or stalling
• With engine running, check that there are no vacuum leaks around the TPS mounting area
• Gently blip the throttle and verify smooth engine response without hesitation
• Use an OBD-II scanner to verify no diagnostic trouble codes are present related to the TPS (P0120-P0124 range)
• Test drive the vehicle to confirm normal throttle response and acceleration
• Verify the check engine light does not illuminate after test drive

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