Throttle Position Sensor: Description and Operation

TPS Location Metro W/ Std Emissions:

DESCRIPTION
The Throttle Position (TP) Sensor, consisting of a potentiometer which is connected to the throttle valve shaft on the throttle body, and detects the throttle valve opening.

OPERATION
A 5 volt reference voltage is applied to the TP sensor from the PCM. As the throttle plate opening increases, the voltage value at the PCM is changed. By monitoring the TP sensor output voltage, the PCM can calculate the throttle valve opening.

SIGNAL USES
The PCM uses this signal from the TP Sensor as one of the signals to control fuel injector, ISC motor and the EGR solenoid vacuum valve. Also, the PCM converts the voltage signal from the TP sensor into an ON/OFF signal, where it is used as one of the signals to control the automatic transmission.