2002 Buick Rendezvous - Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)

What is a Throttle Position Sensor?

The throttle position sensor (TPS) monitors the position of the throttle body butterfly valve. This allows your vehicle's computer to regulate the air intake and manage the fuel and air mixture. Throttle position sensors are often mounted to the throttle body itself, and may have a lever arm that moves as the throttle changes position. The throttle position sensor on some vehicles may also be adjustable to set its relative position for closed and wide-open throttle for more accurate response. If the throttle position sensor fails, your vehicle may experience a loss in engine power, delayed or restricted acceleration, rough idle, or a Check Engine warning light. It's also possible for the throttle body valve to become clogged, or it may be restricted by a buildup of debris or carbon deposits over time, which can cause similar issues. Cleaning the throttle body if it is noticeably dirty is often a good first step in your diagnosis, but if this doesn't resolve the issue, the throttle position sensor or its connector may need to be inspected, cleaned, adjusted, or replaced. When you need to repair your vehicle's air intake system, shop O'Reilly Auto Parts. We carry replacement throttle position sensors, connectors, throttle body rebuild kits, and throttle body cleaners for a complete repair. You can also visit your local O'Reilly Auto Parts for free Check Engine light testing to determine if the throttle position sensor is communicating with the computer or if it may need to be replaced.