Throttle Position Sensor: Description and Operation

Description:

DESCRIPTION
The Throttle Position (TP) sensor detects the throttle valve opening. The TP sensor consists of a potentiometer which is connected to the throttle valve shaft on the throttle body.

OPERATION
A 5 volt reference voltage is applied to the TP sensor from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the throttle plate opening increases, the voltage value at the PCM is changed. By monitoring the TP sensor output voltage, the PCM can calculate the throttle valve opening.

VOLTAGE SIGNAL
The PCM uses this signal from the TP sensor as one of the signals to control the fuel injector, the SC motor and the EGR solenoid vacuum valve. The PCM converts the voltage signal from the TP sensor into a ON/OFF signal, where it is used as one of the signals to control the automatic transmission.