Throttle Body Position Sensor Repair Costs
Below are the typical repair costs for different throttle body position sensor issues. Labor rates calculated at $125/hour.
Basic Cleaning Service
Cost Range: $125-$187.50
Includes cleaning of throttle body and sensor, typically takes 1-1.5 hours. This is often sufficient for vehicles experiencing minor throttle response issues or rough idling.
Sensor Replacement Only
Cost Range: $200-$375
Includes:
- Parts: $75-$150 for the sensor
- Labor: 1-2 hours ($125-$250)
Complete Throttle Body Assembly Replacement
Cost Range: $450-$875
Includes:
- Parts: $200-$500 for the assembly
- Labor: 2-3 hours ($250-$375)
Additional Costs
May include:
- Diagnostic fee: $125 (typically one hour)
- Computer system recalibration: $125
- Additional parts like gaskets or connectors: $20-$50
Note: Prices may vary based on vehicle make, model, and year. Luxury and European vehicles typically fall on the higher end of these ranges.
Throttle Body Position Sensor Repair Procedures
Contact-Type TPS Repair
Tools needed:Socket set, screwdrivers, electrical cleaner, multimeter
Steps:
- Disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal
- Locate the TPS on the side of the throttle body
- Unplug the electrical connector from the sensor
- Remove mounting screws securing the TPS to throttle body
- Clean the contact surface with electrical contact cleaner
- Test resistance values with multimeter according to manufacturer specs
- If values are incorrect, replace with new sensor
- Ensure proper alignment during installation
- Secure mounting screws to specified torque
- Reconnect electrical connector
- Perform idle relearn procedure if required
Non-Contact (Hall Effect) TPS Repair
Tools needed:Socket set, screwdrivers, diagnostic scanner
Steps:
- Disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal
- Locate the TPS on the throttle body assembly
- Disconnect the electrical connector
- Remove mounting screws
- Remove old sensor
- Install new sensor in exact position as original
- Secure mounting screws to specified torque
- Reconnect electrical connector
- Reconnect battery
- Use scanner to perform throttle position relearn procedure
- Clear any stored DTCs
Integrated Throttle Body Assembly Repair
Tools needed:Socket set, screwdrivers, diagnostic scanner, throttle body cleaner
Steps:
- Disconnect negative battery terminal
- Remove air intake components to access throttle body
- Disconnect electrical connectors and vacuum lines
- Remove mounting bolts securing throttle body
- Remove entire throttle body assembly
- Install new throttle body assembly
- Torque mounting bolts to specification
- Reconnect all electrical connectors and vacuum lines
- Reinstall air intake components
- Reconnect battery
- Perform computerized throttle body relearn procedure
- Check for proper operation using scanner
Important Notes:
- Always refer to manufacturer-specific procedures and specifications
- Some vehicles require specific initialization procedures
- Proper calibration is crucial for correct operation
- Clean mounting surfaces thoroughly before installation
- Check for related issues that may have caused sensor failure
Note: These procedures are general guidelines. Specific vehicles may require additional or different steps. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for detailed instructions.
Understanding Throttle Body Position Sensors
A Throttle Body Position Sensor (TPS) is a crucial component in modern vehicles that monitors the position and movement of the throttle valve. Here are the main types and their functions:
1. Potentiometer-Type TPS
What it is:A variable resistor that changes resistance based on throttle plate position.
What it does:
- Converts mechanical position into electrical signals
- Monitors throttle plate angle from idle to wide-open throttle
- Sends voltage signals to the Engine Control Module (ECM)
2. Hall Effect TPS
What it is:A magnetic sensor that uses Hall effect principles to detect throttle position.
What it does:
- Provides contactless position sensing
- Offers more precise readings than potentiometer types
- Generates digital output signals
- Generally has a longer lifespan due to no mechanical wear
3. Drive-By-Wire TPS
What it is:An electronic throttle control sensor that eliminates mechanical linkage.
What it does:
- Communicates directly with the vehicle's computer system
- Controls throttle position based on multiple vehicle parameters
- Provides enhanced precision and response time
- Enables advanced features like cruise control and traction control
4. Dual Potentiometer TPS
What it is:A sensor with two separate potentiometers in one housing.
What it does:
- Provides redundancy for safety
- Verifies accuracy through cross-referencing signals
- Maintains vehicle operation if one circuit fails
Note: Regular maintenance and proper diagnosis of TPS issues are essential for optimal vehicle performance. If you experience irregular idle, poor acceleration, or check engine lights, your TPS may need inspection.
Common Failure Symptoms of Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)
Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) - Signs of Failure and Maintenance Guide
Common Signs of TPS Failure
Check Engine Light
One of the first indicators of TPS issues is an illuminated check engine light, often accompanied by trouble codes P0120 to P0124.
Sudden Acceleration Changes
The vehicle may experience unexpected acceleration or deceleration, even without pressing the gas pedal.
Rough Idle
A failing TPS can cause the engine to idle roughly or stall when coming to a stop.
Poor Fuel Economy
When the TPS isn't working correctly, the engine control module can't optimize fuel delivery, leading to decreased fuel efficiency.
Hesitation During Acceleration
The vehicle may stumble or hesitate when accelerating from a stop or during passing maneuvers.
Maintenance Schedule
Regular Inspection
The TPS should be inspected during routine maintenance, typically every 60,000 miles or when symptoms occur.
Cleaning
Professional cleaning of the throttle body and TPS is recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.
Testing
Voltage testing should be performed whenever there are drivability issues or during comprehensive engine diagnostics.
Replacement
There is no specific replacement interval for the TPS. It's typically replaced only when it fails or shows signs of malfunction.
Important Note: These intervals are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for manufacturer-specific maintenance schedules and recommendations.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
