Throttle Position Sensor Replacement

Time to install: 15 mins

Tools Required: Phillips Head Screwdriver or Socket set.

At about 85,000 miles on the odometer, I started getting a weird hesitation, even at freeway speeds. It was like the car would suddenly stumble or wasn't getting fuel for a fraction of a second. I'd be accelerating or just cruising on the freeway, and the car would lightly hesitate. Light, but noticeable. Finally, one day I got a blnking CEL, and the scanner showed P0123 which means a problem with the Throttle Position Sensor. This seems to be a common problem, so I just replaced it. Not much to it, other than the cost of this part from the factory. Pretty darn expensive! Luckily, I bought mine used and it worked to get rid of the stubling.

Here is the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS). It's mounted to the side of the Throttle Body. Unclip the black wire harness by depressing the tab.

Remove the two screws. I found it difficult to remove the screws with a Phillips head screwdriver, so a small socket was used. Popped the new one on and took the car for a spin.

I did get one last CEL, but in subsequent drives, the engine light no longer appeared.