Throttle Position Sensor (TPS Sensor)

What Does The TPS Sensor Do?

The TPS Sensor measures the position of the throttle opening – i.e. how far the accelerator pedal is being pressed. This information is relayed to the ECU, which can adjust the amount of fuel supplied to the engine and help maintain a stable engine speed and smooth acceleration.

Where is The TPS Sensor Located?

The TPS sensor is usually mounted on one side of the throttle body. On some vehicles, the sensor is situated directly on the throttle pedal.

What Are The Failure Symptoms of The TPS Sensor?

A failed TPS Sensor will usually cause the Engine Management light to illuminate. A faulty TPS sensor will usually result in high idle speed and/or hesitant acceleration, poor idle control, engine misfire, or suddenly surging RPM’s.

Maintenance Of The TPS Sensor

The TPS sensor wears internally so is difficult to diagnose from a visual inspection (the sensor houses a variable resistor on which the contacts wear over repeated movement). Check the sensor housing for any damage, and the sensor contacts for any build-up of dirt or corrosion.

What Else is The TPS Sensor Commonly Called?

The TPS Sensor is also referred to as a Throttle Potentiometer; Idle Switch; Throttle Switch; or Potentiometer.