Throttle Position Sensor Reset (Expert Guide)

As a driver, have you ever struggled when trying to increase or reduce your vehicle’s speed. Do you realize that some faults in your vehicle can cause this struggle? Have you thought about a throttle position sensor reset?

If you want to get clarity on these issues, then here is the right place for you.

One major fault that can cause this type of scenario is a malfunctioning throttle position sensor which leads to inaccurate response. Thus, you might floor the accelerator pedal but wouldn’t gain more power or even the other way round.

This article will focus on all you need to know about the throttle position sensor, its functions and how to go about your throttle position sensor reset whenever it malfunctions.

Let’s get started!

Resetting the throttle position sensor is not complicated; no complex tool is needed.

Here and steps to reset the throttle position sensor successfully;

Step 1: Remove the Battery Terminals

If your engine is running, put it off and then ensure that you disconnect your battery. Wait for 5 minutes before you try anything else.

Step 2: Reconnect the Battery. Now reconnect the terminals of your battery and wait for 2 minutes

Step 3: Switch the Ignition Switch to ‘On.’ After the two minutes are up, put your key in the ignition and turn it. Switch the car “on” without turning on the engine. This action will cause all the electronic functions of the vehicle to be activated, and your dashboard will light up.

Step 4: Apply Pressure on Your Accelerator. Slowly apply pressure on your accelerator pedal until it is pressed down, and this process should take about 5 seconds. Hold it in that position for another 4 seconds, then slowly release the accelerator pedal for another 5 seconds. This particular step has to be repeated at least three times.

Step 5: Program the TPS. You will need to program the TPS for a closed throttle valve, which is done by increasing the throttle valve to a close position and turning on the ignition. Wait for 10 seconds, then turn the ignition back off.

Step 6: Switch the Key Off. Once you have switched the key of the ignition back to its off position, you can remove the key for 10 seconds, put it back in, restart the engine of the car, and let it idle.

If the car is idling smoothly, the new throttle position sensor has been successfully reset; if not, you must repeat steps 3, 4, and 5.

Throttle Position Sensor Reset Explained

The throttle position sensor is a unique sensor that relays the position of the throttle valve to the engine control module (ECM).

This sensor measures the throttle valve’s aperture (how wide open the throttle is) and how much air enters the vehicle’s engine. This information is transmitted electronically to the engine control module, which signals the engine control unit.

The engine control unit then decides how much fuel gets to the fuel injectors and the timing of the sparks in the ignition system.

Therefore it is safe to say that the throttle position sensor plays a major part in the overall performance of any engine.

Normally, the throttle opens up greatly if the vehicle needs more power or is running at high speeds and would close up or leave a tiny aperture when the car is either idling or driving at low speeds.

Suppose the throttle position sensor malfunction and does not relay accurate information. The ECU will make wrong adjustments to fuel intake and ignition patterns which can lead to poor fuel economy, increased emissions, loss of power, and an overall decrease in performance of vehicle performance.

Therefore, whenever a throttle position sensor malfunctions, fixing it as soon as possible is advisable.

You can reset or replace the throttle position sensor with enough technical knowledge.

Where Can i Locate the Throttle Position Sensor?

The throttle position sensor is not in the same place for every car. However, in most car models, the throttle position sensor sits close to the butterfly shaft on the throttle body. Its positioning allows it to take readings or measurements of the throttle valve opening and closing.

Also Read: Throttle Position Sensor Symptoms (Causes & Solutions)

How to Reset the Throttle Position Sensor in a Chevy

Unlike most other vehicles, the Chevy is a bit more complicated when resetting the throttle position sensor.

Here are the steps for resetting the throttle position sensor in a Chevy;

Step 1: Disconnect the Negative Battery Terminal. For a Chevy, you must only disconnect the negative battery terminal. This action will prevent any electrical accident from occurring.

Step 2: Locate the Throttle Position Sensor. Next, you must find the throttle position sensor. The throttle position sensor is usually located close to the throttle body of every vehicle. Disconnect the sensor from its connectors.

Step 3: Clean the Throttle Position Sensor. Clean the throttle position sensor with compressed air, and once you are sure that all the debris is out, reconnect it with the connector and reinstall the sensor.

Step 4: Reconnecting the Negative Battery Terminal. Once you have reinstalled the sensor on the throttle body, you can reconnect the battery’s negative terminal.

And that is all you need to reset a throttle position sensor on a Chevy vehicle.

Here are Steps to Replacing Your Throttle Position Sensor

If resetting the throttle position sensor does not fix the fault, you might need to replace it. Here are the simple steps to follow when replacing your throttle position sensor;

Step 1: Locate the throttle position sensor, which is usually on the throttle body

Step 2: Next, disconnect the negative terminal of your battery.

Step 3: Also, disconnect the electrical connectors connected to your throttle position sensor.

Step 4: Before installing the new throttle position sensor, ensure it matches the old one.

Step 5: Begin installing the new sensor by mounting it with its screws

Step 6: Reconnect the electrical connectors on the sensor once you’re done mountain it

Step 7: Next, reconnect your battery

Step 8: Finally, start your car and give it a test drive. Start from an idle test to an acceleration test.

You must understand that every vehicle is different, and some may need manual or automatic adjustments for the new throttle position sensor.

Remember, it is always advisable to employ the services of an expert if you have any doubt about your capabilities to carry out the simple procedure.

What will it Cost to Reset My Throttle Position Sensor?

Normally, resetting the throttle position sensor should not cost you anything if it is performed early enough; however, if severe damage has already been done to the engine, it will cost you a lot of money.

Should I Drive with a Faulty Throttle Position Sensor?

Your vehicle will still function even with a bad throttle position sensor, but it is not advisable to drive with it and not to mention for long periods.

The faulty throttle position sensor only causes minor problems, but these minor problems would create severe problems for your engine within a short period.

Therefore if you have a malfunctioning throttle position, fix it as soon as possible.

Do I Need a Throttle Position Sensor Reset

You do not have to reset a throttle position sensor whenever it malfunctions, as there are other fixes to a malfunctioning throttle position sensor. However, resetting the throttle position sensor is the quickest and simplest way to resolve a malfunctioning throttle position sensor.

You can decide to replace the throttle position sensor, but resetting it will save you a lot of cost on both labor and aftermarket parts.

Also Read: Temporary Fix for Crankshaft Position Sensor (Expert Guide)

Frequently Asked Questions – Throttle Position Sensor Reset

Conclusion – Throttle Position Sensor Reset

The throttle position sensor is a vital part of the intake system for every vehicle and must always be in proper working condition. If you suspect the throttle position sensor is malfunctioning, try resetting it or getting a professional technician. Finally, all steps and guidelines needed to reset a throttle position sensor have been outlined in the article above.