What happens when a TPS sensor goes bad?

What happens when my throttle position sensor goes bad. When a TPS goes bad, then the car’s throttle body won’t function properly. It could either stay shut or it won’t close properly which is a severe issue. If it stays shut then your engine is not going receive air and it won’t start.

Where is TPS sensor located?

A throttle position sensor (TPS) is a sensor used to monitor the air intake of an engine. The sensor is usually located on the butterfly spindle/shaft, so that it can directly monitor the position of the throttle.

How can I tell if my TPS is bad?

Test the TPS using a digital multimeter. Make sure that it’s still working and, if necessary, visually inspect and test the wires and connector. If the sensor tests OK, erase the code. If it comes back or you notice a performance issue.

Can you reset a TPS sensor?

The easiest way to reset your throttle position sensor is to unhook the negative cable from your battery for up to five minutes or to remove the fuse for your engine control module. Resetting is sometimes all that is required to restore your sensor.

Can I drive with a bad TPS?

Can you drive with a bad throttle position sensor? It is not a good idea to drive with a bad throttle position sensor. Driving your car in this condition can be dangerous because your car might not accelerate properly or could suddenly accelerate without the driver pressing the gas pedal.

How do you fix TPS?

Here’s How To Replace a Throttle Position Sensor

  1. Disconnect the Battery.
  2. Unplug Old Sensor.
  3. Remove Mounting Screws.
  4. Remove Old Sensor.
  5. Mount and Screw In New Sensor.
  6. Re-Plug Wiring Harness.
  7. Reconnect Battery Cables.
  8. Q: I Don’t Have Time to Replace My Throttle Position Sensor, Can’t I Just Ignore It?

How do I test my TPS?

Touch the negative probe on the multimeter to the negative wire tab on the TPS and the positive probe to the positive tab. The multimeter will display around 5 volts if the TPS is working correctly. Check signal voltage. Touch the positive probe to the signal wire tab and touch the ground probe to the frame of the car.

How long does a TPS sensor last?

The average lifespan of a throttle position sensor is just over 80,000 miles, though some will last for the lifetime of the car. If a TPS is suspect, a professional repair facility will perform electrical testing on the sensor.


By Tips