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      Your concern might be complex to diagnose and may require additional equipment to pinpoint the cause. In this case, you'll receive Digital Inspection results plus a quote to perform deeper diagnostic/test procedures.
      Home / Symptoms / Throttle Position Sensor Replacement Cost
      The throttle position sensor replacement cost varies depending on labor costs, the area wages, vehicle type and condition, among other things
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      Throttle Position Sensor: Replacement, Costs & DIY

      The average cost of replacing a throttle position sensor for non-luxury vehicle brands like Chevrolet, Toyota, and Ford is typically between $160 and $240, depending on the vehicle model.

      For higher-end vehicles like performance cars and luxury SUVs, the prices are different. For example, a throttle position sensor replacement can fall around the $250 range on a 2024 Mercedes G-Wagon.

      What are the costs of changing the throttle position sensor?

      A throttle position sensor replacement uses resources and labor and relies on professional facilities. All of that changes the cost of replacing the part. Let’s discuss these aspects in more detail:

      • The labor rate: Labor rates change between professionals (ASE technicians charge more than rookie mechanics) and wage differences for areas.

      • The shop’s neighborhood/area: The area will determine the replacement cost. For example, Santa Barbara in California has prices different from Albuquerque in New Mexico; this could be due to lease rates, cost of living, etc.

      • The vehicle type: European brands like Mercedes, BMW, Audi, etc., have different prices for replacing the throttle position sensor. For example, an Audi throttle position sensor replacement can typically start at $250 and go above $300.

      Let's Get To The Bottom Of It!

      Does your car hesitate or jerk when you press the gas pedal?

      A faulty throttle position sensor can cause the engine control unit to receive incorrect throttle position readings, leading to hesitation, sluggish acceleration, or jerking as the engine struggles to adjust fuel delivery properly.

       

      Does your engine stall or idle roughly, especially when stopped at a light or in park?

      A failing TPS can send inconsistent signals, causing an unstable air-fuel mixture. This can make the engine idle erratically, shake, or even stall because it isn’t receiving the right amount of fuel at low speeds or when the throttle is closed.

       

      Have you experienced sudden surges in speed or unexpected acceleration?

      If the TPS is malfunctioning, it may randomly send signals that the throttle is open wider than it actually is. This can cause the engine control unit to inject too much fuel, leading to sudden bursts of acceleration even when the driver isn’t pressing the gas pedal.

       

      Is your check engine light on, and have you had it scanned for trouble codes?

      A faulty throttle position sensor can trigger error codes that can be read using a diagnostic scanner. Common TPS-related codes include P0120 to P0124, which indicate circuit issues, voltage inconsistencies, or mismatched signals between the throttle and pedal sensors.

       

      Does your car struggle to shift gears smoothly, or does it feel like it's stuck in the wrong gear?

      In automatic vehicles, the transmission relies on throttle input to determine shift points. If the TPS is sending incorrect signals, the ECU may miscalculate engine load, leading to rough shifting, delayed shifts, or the transmission getting stuck in the wrong gear.

       

      Have you noticed a drop in fuel efficiency or that you're filling up more often than usual?

      Since the TPS directly affects fuel injection, incorrect readings can cause the engine to run too rich, meaning it uses more fuel than necessary. This leads to worse gas mileage, excessive emissions, and potential damage to other components like spark plugs and the catalytic converter.

       
       
       
      1. What is a Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)?

      A Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) is a small electronic device attached to the throttle body that monitors the position of the throttle plate. It tells the engine control unit (ECU) how much air is entering the engine, helping regulate fuel delivery and engine performance.

       

      2. What are the signs of a failing TPS?

      • Unstable or rough idling

      • Poor acceleration or hesitation when pressing the gas pedal

      • Sudden engine surges or power loss

      • Stalling while driving or at idle

      • Check Engine Light (CEL) turning on

      • Trouble shifting gears (in automatic vehicles)

       

      3. What are common error codes associated with a bad TPS?

      If your car’s check engine light is on, a scan tool may show one of these TPS-related codes:

      • P0120 - P0124 (Throttle Position Sensor Circuit Issues)

      • P2135 (Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor Voltage Correlation Issue) These codes indicate that the TPS is not sending the correct signals to the ECU.

       

      4. Can a bad TPS affect fuel efficiency?

      Yes! A faulty TPS can send incorrect signals to the ECU, causing too much or too little fuel to be delivered. This can lead to poor fuel economy, excessive fuel consumption, and even engine misfires.

       

      5. Is it safe to drive with a faulty TPS?

      Not recommended. A failing TPS can cause unexpected acceleration, stalling, or hesitation, making your car unpredictable and unsafe, especially in traffic or highway conditions. If you notice symptoms, it’s best to fix it ASAP.

       

      6. How do you test a TPS with a multimeter?

      1. Turn the ignition ON (engine off).

      2. Set your multimeter to DC voltage (20V setting).

      3. Find the signal wire on the TPS connector (usually the middle wire).

      4. Connect the multimeter’s black probe to ground and red probe to the signal wire.

      5. Slowly press the accelerator and watch the voltage increase smoothly from around 0.5V (closed throttle) to 4.5-5V (wide open throttle).

      6. If voltage jumps, drops, or has dead spots, the TPS is faulty.

       

      7. What is the difference between a TPS and a Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF)?

      • TPS measures throttle position (how much the gas pedal is pressed).

      • MAF measures the amount of air entering the engine. Both help adjust fuel delivery, but the TPS focuses on pedal movement, while the MAF focuses on air intake.

       

      8. Can a dirty throttle body cause TPS problems?

      Yes. A dirty or clogged throttle body can cause incorrect TPS readings, leading to rough idling, hesitation, or stalling. Cleaning the throttle body with a specialized cleaner can sometimes fix minor TPS-related issues.

       

      9. How often should a TPS be replaced?

      There is no fixed replacement interval, but it’s usually replaced when it fails. Most TPS sensors can last over 100,000 miles, but they may wear out sooner due to dirt, electrical issues, or mechanical wear.

       

      10. Can a bad TPS cause the car to stall?

      Yes. If the TPS fails, the engine might not receive the correct air-fuel mixture, causing the car to stall at idle or while driving. This can be dangerous, especially in traffic.

       

      11. What are the signs of a failing TPS on a specific car brand?

      Symptoms are generally similar across brands, but here are a few manufacturer-specific quirks:

      • Toyota: Erratic idling, sluggish acceleration, and delayed shifting.

      • Ford: Sudden RPM drops and rough gear shifts.

      • Chevy/GMC: Hesitation and limp mode activation.

      • Honda: Hard starting and intermittent power loss.

      • Nissan: Poor throttle response and delayed acceleration.

       

      Are there more costs to consider besides common replacement costs?

      Yes, the common replacement costs are expected in any throttle position sensor replacement. But you might get a better-specialized service, depending on what you want to achieve with your vehicle.

      Here are the possible types of service you can get.

      • “Just” a fix: This means you just need the throttle position sensor replacement and nothing else. The downside is that you might not discover what caused the sensor to go bad in the first place. So, let’s assume there’s a problem somewhere else in your car that’s forcing the throttle position sensor to wear down faster. In this situation, replacing it won’t solve the issue; it might just make you return to the shop shortly to replace the sensor again. Going with this type of service probably won’t have extra costs besides the common ones at first. But it may mean you’ll spend way more than expected if the throttle position sensor keeps wearing out faster.

      • Long-lasting fix: This means you want to permanently fix your vehicle and understand what might be wrong with it. So, you want to investigate if there’s an issue causing your throttle position sensor to wear down faster than expected. You’re willing to spend more money to cover extra processes that ensure your car runs safely and reliably.

      Costs of a long-lasting throttle position sensor fix 

      In addition to the common replacement costs, a long-lasting replacement has more factors that change the final price. Here’s what you can initially expect:

      • Engine fuel-injection system inspection: An engine system inspection usually costs below $200. This is an investigation of your fuel-injection system that involves the labor of service advisors and mechanics.

      • Component replacements: The inspection might indicate worn and affected components that require replacement. This depends on the specific condition of the vehicle.

      • Other system repairs: The shop might find other malfunctioning systems affected by the problem that require replacements and/or computer reprogramming. For example, replacing parts of the fuel system that are worn out due to bad ignition and combustion can cost north of $1,000.

      Symptoms of a bad throttle position sensor

      Here are some of the most common symptoms you’ll notice if your  throttle position sensor starts failing:

      • Check Engine Light On – The ECU detects a faulty signal and triggers a warning light.

      • Hard Starting or No Start – The engine may struggle to start or not start at all.

      • Engine Stalling – The engine may randomly shut off while driving.

      • Rough Idling & Misfires – The engine may run unevenly, shake, or misfire.

      • Poor Acceleration – Delayed throttle response or sluggish performance.

      • Reduced Fuel Efficiency – The ECU may inject too much or too little fuel, leading to higher fuel consumption.

      • Transmission Shifting Issues – Some cars experience rough or delayed gear shifts due to incorrect timing signals.

      What’s at risk with a faulty camshaft position sensor?

      Some other car parts that work together with the throttle position sensor will suffer. Here are some of these parts and how much they might add to the repair cost if the throttle sensor isn’t dealt with quickly:

      • Throttle Body – $300 to $700

      • Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) – $200 to $400

      • Idle Air Control Valve (IAC) – $150 to $400

      • Oxygen Sensors (O2 Sensors) – $200 to $500

      • Spark Plugs & Ignition Coils – $100 to $500

      • Catalytic Converter – $1,000 to $2,500

      • Transmission (due to rough shifting issues) – $1,500 to $4,000

      You’ll run safety risks if your vehicle keeps driving with a faulty throttle position sensor. Here are some unexpected things that can go wrong:

      • Sudden Acceleration – The ECU may misinterpret throttle input, causing the car to lunge forward unexpectedly.

      • Engine Stalling – The engine might shut off while driving, leading to loss of power steering and brakes.

      • Unpredictable Throttle Response – The car may hesitate or fail to accelerate when needed, increasing the risk in traffic.

      • Transmission Issues – Erratic shifting can make it harder to control the vehicle, especially on highways or hills.

      • Reduced Braking Power – If the engine doesn't slow down properly, it can make braking less effective.

      • Limp Mode Activation – The vehicle may suddenly limit speed to prevent damage, which can be dangerous in fast-moving traffic.

      Find Professional Help

      Please select your vehicle's brand and location so we can locate the best professional help for you
      If you are a shop owner and sick of business directories that are based on the cost of repair, AutoTechIQ is for you. If your customers receive Digital Inspection results then AutoTechIQ is definitely for you. Check out the certification page or how to rank in your area.

      Pinpoint the Issue

      • Does your car hesitate or jerk when you press the gas pedal?

        A faulty throttle position sensor can cause the engine control unit to receive incorrect throttle position readings, leading to hesitation, sluggish acceleration, or jerking as the engine struggles to adjust fuel delivery properly.

         

      • Does your engine stall or idle roughly, especially when stopped at a light or in park?

      • Have you experienced sudden surges in speed or unexpected acceleration?

      • Is your check engine light on, and have you had it scanned for trouble codes?

      • Does your car struggle to shift gears smoothly, or does it feel like it's stuck in the wrong gear?

      • Have you noticed a drop in fuel efficiency or that you're filling up more often than usual?

      FAQ on Throttle Position Sensor

      • 1. What is a Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)?

        A Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) is a small electronic device attached to the throttle body that monitors the position of the throttle plate. It tells the engine control unit (ECU) how much air is entering the engine, helping regulate fuel delivery and engine performance.

         

      • 2. What are the signs of a failing TPS?

      • 3. What are common error codes associated with a bad TPS?

      • 4. Can a bad TPS affect fuel efficiency?

      • 5. Is it safe to drive with a faulty TPS?

      • 6. How do you test a TPS with a multimeter?

      • 7. What is the difference between a TPS and a Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF)?

      • 8. Can a dirty throttle body cause TPS problems?

      • 9. How often should a TPS be replaced?

      • 10. Can a bad TPS cause the car to stall?

      • 11. What are the signs of a failing TPS on a specific car brand?

      Typical fixes to address the cause(s)

      These are typical processes and repair services that fix a check engine light issue

      How to get transparent, long-lasting repairs

      If you want to fix the root cause, relying on online price estimates is misleading. Online estimates will only price the specific repair, e.g., the throttle position sensor replacement, and they won’t consider whether your vehicle needs an inspection to investigate and deal with the problem as a whole.

      The solution for the root cause of your throttle position sensor being damaged is based specifically on your vehicle’s condition. This involves many components and procedures that won’t appear on online estimates because every case has specific needs.

      The best way to get a precise estimate is to seek shops with a “transparency process” to perform an ignition system inspection for you. Their transparency relies on documenting everything about your throttle position sensor’s condition and clarifying their findings using edited images and videos they took of your car, explaining their suggestions and quotes.

      Let’s see an example of an ignition system investigation because of a faulty throttle position sensor.

      A Transparent, Long-lasting Throttle Position Sensor Repair Example

      A complete engine fuel-injection system inspection checks everything about the system’s condition, investigates chronic issues, and checks if all combustion and ignition components (fuel lines, fuel injectors, valves, spark plugs, etc.) work as expected.

      For instance, if a shop is requested to do an engine system inspection due to a faulty throttle position sensor, the mechanics will look through each sensor-related component.

      They’ll check every component for signs of wear, tear, or leaks to find if it is damaging or stressing the throttle position sensor. The inspection may reveal that various components need replacement and identify a culprit causing extra stress on the throttle position sensor.

      What exactly is a throttle position sensor (TPS)?

      A Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) is a crucial component in a vehicle’s fuel management system. It monitors the position of the throttle valve and sends that information to the engine control unit (ECU). The ECU then uses this data to adjust the air-fuel mixture and ignition timing, optimizing engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions.

      How to test the throttle position sensor?

      There are three main ways to test it: using a multimeter, a scan tool, or an oscilloscope. Here’s how you can do it yourself with a multimeter, which is the most common method.

      1. Tools You’ll Need:

       Digital multimeter (DMM)
      Basic hand tools (if removal is needed)
      Vehicle repair manual (for reference)

      2. Locate the TPS

      • The TPS is mounted on the throttle body and connected to the throttle plate.

      • It usually has three wires:

        • Reference voltage (VCC) – 5V (from ECU)

        • Signal wire – variable voltage output (to ECU)

        • Ground – 0V

      3. Testing the TPS with a Multimeter

      A. Checking for Power (5V Reference)

      1. Turn the ignition ON, but do not start the engine.

      2. Set your multimeter to DC voltage (20V range).

      3. Probe the reference voltage wire (typically the middle or first wire).

      4. The reading should be around 5V.

        • If no voltage, check for wiring issues or a bad ECU.

      B. Checking the Ground Wire

      1. Keep the multimeter on DC voltage mode.

      2. Place the black probe on the TPS ground wire.

      3. Place the red probe on the battery’s positive terminal.

      4. You should get 12V or higher.

        • If you get 0V, there’s a bad ground connection.

      C. Checking TPS Signal Output

      1. Keep the ignition ON (engine off).

      2. Connect the black probe to the ground wire and the red probe to the signal wire.

      3. Slowly press the accelerator pedal (or manually open the throttle).

      4. The voltage should increase smoothly from 0.5V (closed throttle) to 4.5V-5V (wide open throttle, WOT).

        • If the voltage jumps, drops, or has dead spots, the TPS is faulty.

      4. Alternative Testing Methods

      A. Using a Scan Tool

      • Plug in an OBD2 scanner and go to live data.

      • Look for Throttle Position (% or voltage).

      • Press the throttle gradually and check if the value changes smoothly.

      B. Using an Oscilloscope

      • This gives a real-time graph of TPS voltage.

      • Any sudden spikes or dips in the signal mean the TPS is bad.

      Where is the Throttle position sensor located?

      The Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) is located on the throttle body, which is typically mounted between the intake manifold and the air intake hose. It is directly connected to the throttle plate (butterfly valve) and detects its position as you press the accelerator pedal.

      Is replacing the TPS yourself a good idea?

      Replacing the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) yourself can be a good idea if you’re comfortable working on your car. It’s usually a straightforward job, especially on older vehicles where the TPS is mounted externally. However, on some modern cars, the TPS is built into the throttle body, making it harder or even impossible to replace separately.

      The 'Find Shops Providing a DVI' Method

      A shop with transparent inspections commonly does DVIs too, which are free-of-charge visual inspections with the same level of transparency. You can find shops providing a DVI to get the reassurance that any inspection or repair will also be transparent.

      This method focuses on two things:

      • Does the shop have a modern DVI?

      • Does the shop have certifications?

      What’s a DVI? As mentioned earlier, it’s like an annual physical visit to the doctor to assess the body’s vital signs, but for a car instead; most auto repair shops don’t charge to do it.  The DVI regularly creates your vehicle’s “state of health,” explaining its overall condition. 

      The mechanic uses the DVI results to inform the conditions of your vehicle’s systems and the recommendations to get it running reliably. If they find issues, they’ll list them in order of priority.

      A DVI helps with a torque converter replacement

      The DVI starts with the mechanic checking vehicle systems (spark plugs, engine modules, fluid levels, throttle, fuel injectors, etc.) for signs of wear/tear/leaks. They’ll document everything through notes, videos, and pictures.

      Here are some important things about a DVI:

      • It’s a visual inspection: The mechanic looks at the car’s components’ surface, searching for obvious problem signs.

      • It also checks for noises: The mechanic listens to your car's sounds and points out unusual noises.

      • It does not include further testing: A DVI doesn’t mean in-depth tests and investigations; it’s a surface-level report that tells whether a car needs evident repairs or deeper inspections.

      If they spot throttle position sensor issues, they’ll take photos of them and edit images and videos to indicate what they found (damages, leaks, components’ locations, etc.). They’ll use arrows, circles, and text to make the images clear and easy to understand.

      Note that the DVI doesn't involve additional testing, so the advisor will be taking notes based on what they see (visual inspection). In the image below, the mechanic found that the throttle sensor had internal damage and wasn't getting power. With a scan tool, they found that the TPMS was dead.

      Tpms battery

      A document with the vehicle’s health status is sent to the customer, with room for questions through online/phone or over-the-counter communication. The customer sees what repair priorities their vehicle has and what should be checked in the near future. 

      In this case, they’ll see a throttle position sensor replacement priority. The focus is to educate and help the customer make informed decisions about their car.

      Certifications that help you

      Today’s auto industry has certifications for customer-educational and transparent businesses. For example, the AutoTechIQ certification makes shops that fit into the DVI method stand out on your local map. So you can find the one closest to you.

      The shops with an AutoTechIQ certification typically feature 100+ excellent Google reviews! You can quickly find this certification on a shop’s website or using AutoTechIQ’s “Find a shop” map.