Throttle Position Sensor

Replace the throttle position sensor (TPS) on the 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo engine by removing the engine cover, disconnecting the sensor electrical connector, and installing a new sensor with proper torque specifications.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Throttle Position Sensor × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Throttle body gasket (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cool to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
3. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
4. Open hood and secure with prop rod
5. Gather all tools and new TPS before beginning

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove engine cover
   Locate and remove the plastic engine cover by pulling upward on the cover to disengage the mounting grommets. The cover is retained by rubber mounts and does not require tools for removal. Set the cover aside in a clean area.
2. 2

   Locate throttle position sensor
   The TPS is mounted on the driver's side of the throttle body assembly, which is located on the intake manifold behind the air intake system. The sensor is a black plastic component with an electrical connector on top and is secured by two small Torx screws.
3. 3

   Disconnect TPS electrical connector
   Press down on the red safety tab of the electrical connector, then squeeze the release tabs on both sides of the connector while pulling directly away from the sensor. Do not pull on the wiring harness. Inspect the connector pins for corrosion or damage.
4. 4

   Remove TPS mounting screws
   Using the T25 Torx driver, remove the two screws securing the TPS to the throttle body. Keep track of these screws as they are small and easily lost. Note the orientation of the sensor before removal to ensure proper installation of the new unit.
5. 5

   Remove old TPS
   Carefully pull the TPS straight away from the throttle body. The sensor shaft engages with the throttle shaft inside the throttle body. If resistance is felt, gently rotate the sensor slightly while pulling to disengage. Inspect the throttle body mounting surface for damage or debris.
6. 6

   Prepare throttle body surface
   Clean the TPS mounting surface on the throttle body with electrical contact cleaner and a lint-free cloth. Ensure no debris or old gasket material remains. Check that the throttle shaft rotates smoothly without binding. Inspect the O-ring or gasket sealing surface for damage.
7. 7

   Install new TPS
   Align the new TPS with the throttle shaft, ensuring the sensor shaft engages properly with the D-shaped or keyed throttle shaft. The sensor should sit flush against the throttle body without forcing. If the sensor does not seat properly, remove and check shaft alignment. Do not force the sensor into position.
   ⚠Incorrect shaft alignment can damage the new sensor or throttle body
8. 8

   Install and torque TPS screws
   Install both T25 Torx screws finger-tight, ensuring the sensor remains properly seated. Tighten the screws in a cross pattern to ensure even pressure. Using the torque wrench, torque both screws to specification. This low torque value is critical to prevent damage to the plastic sensor housing.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Align the electrical connector with the TPS and push firmly until you hear and feel a positive click. Ensure the red safety tab locks into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully secured. Do not pull on the wiring harness.
10. 10

    Reinstall engine cover
    Align the engine cover mounting grommets with the posts on the engine. Press down firmly on each mounting point until the grommets snap into place. Ensure the cover is secure and properly seated at all mounting points.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connections are fully seated and locked
2. Verify engine cover is properly secured at all mounting points
3. Double-check no tools or parts were left in the engine bay

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine and verify no warning lights remain illuminated
• Start the engine and allow it to idle; ensure smooth idle with no hunting or surging
• Use an OBD-II scanner to verify no TPS-related fault codes are present (P0120-P0124, P2135)
• Test drive the vehicle and verify smooth throttle response and acceleration with no hesitation
• Verify cruise control functions properly if equipped
• Check for any unusual engine behavior during warm-up and normal operating temperature

More procedures for this vehicle