Buying a tps sensor is the end result if your tps sensor fails. Like any engine part, this sensor can fail due to wear and tear including internal component breakdown when exposed to excessive heat. So how do you decide if you need one before buying a tps sensor? Can you buy it only from the dealer? What are the options of buying aftermarket sensors? These are some of the questions I will explore to guide you in buying a tps sensor.

How to make sure the tps sensor is defective for vehicles made before 2002:

Tps sensor is proven defective after making some serious test on the sensor. This will include it’s wiring connection between the sensor and the engine computer. You can start first by scanning for tps sensor code. Once confirmed, check the voltages of the tps sensor 3 wires namely the signal, reference and ground wires. The quickest way to do it is to check the signal wire voltage when the engine is off. With key on engine off, the signal wire voltage reading can be checked in the idle and high idle positions of the tps sensor while moving it’s linkage. Voltage reading should be available in the service manual. The reference voltage is always 5 volts while the ground voltage is no higher than 0.250 volt.

Updates on tps sensor made after 2002:

In 2003, the tps sensor has been updated. The tps sensor does not use a mechanical cable anymore between the throttle body and the throttle pedal. Instead, the cable was replaced by a remote tps module in the engine compartment and another tps sensor located behind the accelerator pedal. A third tps component is imbedded within the throttle body itself. The tps module process the signal given by the tps sensor at the pedal which is converted into speed at the throttle body. To understand this process, refer to your vehicle wiring diagram if your vehicle is made after 2002.

What information do you need before buying a tps sensor?

For any fuel injected engine, use the VIN or serial number of the vehicle to get the right tps sensor. That number will contain the correct engine size and application for ordering the right tps sensor. Tps sensor is always available in the dealer which guarantee that it is an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) part. This ensures quality part and increase the chance of a successful installation. If aftermarket part is cheaper and this is your preference, make sure you check the following:

1.) Resistance readings of the tps sensor wires as indicated in the service manual
2.) Bring your old tps sensor with you for comparison before buying a new tps sensor

This is really important when checking the wire terminal connections and the sensor mounting configuration. The last thing you want to know is to buy it without comparing the old one and find out later that you got the wrong part.

3.) Always test the voltage readings for the 3 tps sensor wires after installation. The tps sensor code can be cleared and verified later by a road test.
4.) For the newer type of tps sensor, use the engine code reader to track the tps components as suggested by service manual or contact ATS for assistance.

Finally, if you have an engine code reader, you can monitor the tps sensor signal wire voltage graph or activities. This will help you a great deal before buying a tps sensor. Instead of making intrusive testing of the wires, the code reader itself can display the sensor functions right before your eyes.

Thanks,

Richard

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