Throttle Position Sensor Replacement

Mobile Throttle Position Sensor Replacement at Home or Office

The throttle position sensor (TPS) on most vehicles is located in the engine compartment. It sends input to the electronic engine control so that ignition and fuel injection timing can be adjusted for proper engine operation. When a throttle position sensor goes bad, your vehicle may stall or run rough at idle, and may stumble upon acceleration. The throttle position sensor also controls the shifting of the gears. If this sensor stops working, the car’s computer will not be able to calculate the right amount of fuel to be injected in the system. It may not be able to change the gears. Your car will not get the right amount of power. It may not even start. The check engine light may also come on, giving you a sign that you need to get your vehicle checked out.

What is Throttle Position Sensor Replacement?

The throttle position sensor in your engine transmits information about the position of your throttle to the electronic control module. It consists of mechanical parts which may become worn and require replacement. A malfunctioning throttle position sensor will relay bad data to your car’s computer and usually result in poor fuel economy.

How is Throttle Position Sensor Replacement Done?

1. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery by loosening the clamp’s nut with an adjustable wrench in a counter clockwise direction.
2. Locate the throttle position sensor.
3. Separate the wiring harness connector from the throttle position sensor by pressing in on the tabs of the connector while pulling it apart by hand.
4. Remove the throttle position sensor from the throttle body by backing out the two holding screws with a screwdriver in a counter clockwise direction.
5. Install the new throttle position sensor onto the throttle body with the original screws by twisting them in with a screwdriver in a clockwise direction.
6. Push the wiring harness connector onto the throttle position sensor until the tabs snap into place.
7. Reconnect the negative battery cable to the negative terminal and tighten the nut with an adjustable wrench.

Recommendations

When the throttle position sensor is repaired or replaced, it will need to have the minimum idle speed reset to factory specs, and the trouble codes will need to be cleared.

Symptoms That Indicate You Need A Throttle Position Sensor Replacement

• Sudden engine stalling without any apparent reason
• An unexplainable bucking and jerking in the vehicle
• Hesitation while accelerating
• Intermittently flashing check engine light for no apparent reason
• A drastic drop in fuel economy
• Sudden idle surges
• Difficulties in changing gears

Driving your car with neglected throttle position sensor replacement can lead to a breakdown and possible loss of control. Have your throttle position sensor replacement performed in a timely manner. If you've read this far, you obviously care a lot about your car. So next time you need a service, repair or inspection, visit wrench.com. You can book a convenient auto repair appointment with our experienced mobile mechanics.