Throttle Position Sensor Circuit Over Voltage
The throttle position sensor circuit is reporting too high of a voltage.
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What it means (plain English)
The throttle position sensor measures how far the throttle is opened and sends that information to the computer. If it sees a voltage above the normal range, it thinks something's wrong.
What the computer is actually seeing
The engine control module (ECM) receives a voltage input from the throttle position sensor that exceeds the typical maximum of 5 volts, often reading between 5.1 to 5.5 volts.
What a healthy reading looks like
Normal throttle position sensor output should range from 0.5 to 4.5 volts when fully closed to fully opened, respectively.
Guided diagnostic — the DiagCoach way
Don't just throw parts at it. Walk through these in order — each step tells you whether to keep going or stop and fix what you found.
- 11. Check the throttle position sensor connector for corrosion, damage, or loose pins. If found, repair it and retest.
- 22. Measure the voltage at the throttle position sensor with the key on, engine off. Expect between 0.5 - 4.5 volts. If above 5 volts, further diagnose the wiring.
- 33. Inspect the wiring harness between the throttle position sensor and the ECM for shorts to power or ground.
- 44. If the sensor and wiring are good, check the ECM with a scan tool to see if there's a software issue or if another fault code is present.
Common causes
- Damaged or shorted throttle position sensor
- Wiring issues (short circuit or grounding problems)
- Faulty ECM or poor ECM connection
- Corroded connectors or pins at the sensor
Typical repair cost
$$ - $$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Can I continue driving with this code?
It's advised to fix it soon as it may impact drivability and performance.
Will this problem come back after fixing?
If proper repairs are made, it should resolve the issue permanently.
Why does this code pair with other codes?
Throttle position issues often relate to other performance and emission faults, leading to multiple codes.
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