Throttle Position Sensor

Replace the throttle position sensor (TPS) on the throttle body assembly to restore proper throttle input signal to the ECM.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Throttle Position Sensor × 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. Disconnect negative battery terminal to prevent electrical issues
4. Remove engine cover by pulling upward on the cover clips

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the throttle body assembly
   The throttle body is located on the intake manifold, driver's side of the engine bay. It has a large air intake hose connected to it from the air filter box. The TPS is mounted on the side of the throttle body.
2. 2

   Disconnect the TPS electrical connector
   Press down on the locking tab of the TPS electrical connector and pull it straight away from the sensor. Do not pull on the wires themselves.
3. 3

   Remove the TPS mounting screws
   Remove the two small Phillips or Torx screws securing the TPS to the throttle body. These screws are typically quite small and may have thread-locking compound applied. Keep these screws as they will be reused.
   ⚠Apply steady pressure while removing to avoid stripping the screw heads
4. 4

   Remove the old TPS
   Carefully pull the TPS straight off the throttle body shaft. The sensor should slide off easily. If it resists, gently wiggle it while pulling to break any corrosion seal. Do not rotate the throttle shaft.
5. 5

   Inspect and clean the mounting surface
   Inspect the throttle body shaft and mounting surface for any debris, corrosion, or damage. Use electrical contact cleaner on a clean towel to wipe the mounting surface and ensure it is clean and dry before installation.
6. 6

   Install the new TPS
   Align the new TPS with the throttle shaft ensuring the flat side of the shaft matches the flat side of the sensor opening. Slide the sensor onto the shaft until it seats flush against the throttle body mounting surface. Ensure proper alignment before installing screws.
7. 7

   Install and torque the TPS screws
   Insert both TPS mounting screws and hand-tighten them evenly. Using an inch-pound torque wrench, torque the screws to specification in a cross pattern 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 the electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector firmly onto the new TPS until you hear and feel it click into place. Verify the locking tab is fully engaged by gently tugging on the connector.
9. 9

   Reinstall engine cover and reconnect battery
   Align the engine cover with its mounting clips and press down firmly until all clips engage. Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten securely.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify engine cover is properly clipped in place
3. Double-check that no tools or parts were left in the engine bay

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position without starting the engine and verify no check engine light is present
• Start the engine and let it idle; verify smooth idle with no hesitation
• Test drive the vehicle and verify smooth throttle response with no hesitation or surging
• Use an OBD-II scanner to verify no TPS-related diagnostic trouble codes are present
• Verify throttle response is immediate and linear during gentle acceleration

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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