How To Clean The Throttle Position Sensor?

Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd

To clean the throttle position sensor (TPS), you will need a star screwdriver, contact cleaner, and throttle body cleaner. Start by disconnecting the battery and removing the air filter assembly. Locate the TPS within the throttle body and detach it using the star screwdriver. Ensure there is no power supply to the TPS by disconnecting any electrical connectors. Clean the TPS thoroughly using contact or throttle body cleaner, paying attention to the spring mechanism and throttle valve. Let it dry completely before reassembling and reconnecting. Reinstall the air filter assembly, reconnect the battery, and start the engine to ensure proper functioning.

How Does the Throttle Position Sensor Work?

The TPS plays a vital role in your car’s engine operation.

1. The TPS is located in the throttle body and measures the position of the throttle valve.
2. It transmits this information to the ECU, which uses it to determine the appropriate amount of fuel to deliver to the engine.
3. When you press the throttle pedal, the TPS sends a high signal to the ECU, prompting it to increase fuel intake for more power.
4. Releasing the throttle pedal sends a low signal to the ECU, signaling it to reduce fuel intake and slow the car down.

Signs of a Dirty or Malfunctioning Throttle Position Sensor

A dirty or faulty TPS can cause various symptoms in your car. Look out for the following signs:

Decreased fuel economy:

One of the primary indicators of a dirty or faulty TPS is a decrease in fuel efficiency. If you notice that your car is consuming more fuel than usual, it may be due to an inaccurate reading from the TPS, leading to an improper fuel-to-air ratio.

Rough idling or stalling:

A TPS issue can result in irregular engine idling or even stalling. You might experience the engine running rough or fluctuating in RPM when the car is stationary. This can be attributed to incorrect signals from the TPS to the engine control unit, leading to improper fuel delivery.

Engine hesitation or surging:

A malfunctioning TPS can cause your engine to hesitate or surge during acceleration. You may feel a lack of power or intermittent surges while pressing the accelerator pedal. These symptoms arise when the TPS fails to provide accurate readings of the throttle position to the engine control unit.

Check the engine light illuminated on the dashboard:

The TPS is an integral part of your car’s engine management system. When it becomes dirty or starts malfunctioning, the engine control unit detects the issue and triggers the check engine light on the dashboard. This is a warning signal to have your TPS inspected, cleaned, or replaced.

Cleaning the Throttle Position Sensor:

Tools and Materials Required:

Before you begin cleaning the TPS, gather the following items:

1. Star screwdriver.
2. Contact cleaner.
3. Clean cloth or paper towels.
4. Optional: Throttle body cleaner (such as CRC Throttle body cleaner).

Step-by-Step Procedure:

Here is the process of cleaning your car’s TPS:

1. Ensure your engine is cool before starting the cleaning process.
2. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent any electrical mishaps.
3. Remove the air filter assembly to access the TPS. This step may vary slightly depending on your car model.
4. Locate the TPS within the throttle body. Screws usually secure it.
5. Use a star screwdriver to remove the screws and gently detach the TPS from the throttle body.
6. Before cleaning, ensure no power supply to the TPS by disconnecting any electrical connectors.
7. Use contact cleaner or throttle body cleaner to clean the TPS thoroughly. Spray the cleaner on the TPS and wipe away any dirt or grime using a clean cloth or paper towel.
8. Pay extra attention to the area around the sensor’s spring mechanism and the throttle valve.
9. Allow the cleaner to dry completely before reassembling the TPS.
10. Once the TPS is dry, reattach it to the throttle body and secure it with the screws.
11. Reconnect any electrical connectors that were disconnected earlier.
12. Reinstall the air filter assembly.
13. Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
14. Start the engine and check for any check engine lights or abnormal behavior.
15. If everything looks and feels normal. You have successfully cleaned your TPS.

FAQs

Conclusion

Cleaning the throttle position sensor (TPS) is a vital maintenance task for ensuring optimal engine performance. By being aware of the signs of a dirty or malfunctioning TPS, such as decreased fuel economy, rough idling, engine hesitation, and a lit check engine light, you can take proactive steps to address any issues. Following the step-by-step guide provided and using the recommended tools and cleaners, such as CRC Throttle body cleaner, you can effectively clean the TPS and restore its functionality. Regular TPS maintenance will help keep your engine running smoothly, improve fuel efficiency, and prolong the lifespan of your vehicle.

Key Notes and Important Points:

• The throttle position sensor (TPS) measures the position of the throttle valve and regulates fuel intake.
• Signs of a dirty or malfunctioning TPS include decreased fuel economy, rough idling, engine hesitation, and a lit check engine light.
• To clean the TPS, gather tools such as a star screwdriver, contact cleaner, and, optionally, throttle body cleaner.
• Disconnect the battery, remove the air filter assembly, and detach the TPS from the throttle body.
• Use contact or throttle body cleaner to thoroughly clean the TPS, focusing on the sensor’s spring mechanism and the throttle valve area.
• Allow the TPS to dry completely before reassembling and reconnecting it.
• Reinstall the air filter assembly, reconnect the battery, and start the engine to ensure proper functioning.
• Use CRC Throttle body cleaner for optimal results.
• Avoid using carb cleaner on the TPS.
• Operating a car without a TPS can lead to engine issues and reduced performance.
• A faulty TPS can trigger a check engine light.