Whack That Sensor To Find Out - Bad TPS or ECU?

In this video I'll show you how you can diagnose problems with the throttle position sensor whether a 3 or 4 wire sensor without a wiring diagram. I'll explain what the reference voltage, Signal Voltage, ground and in the case of this LS400 IDLE Switch Voltage is and how to check them as well.


Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of Ratchets and Wrenches, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. Ratchets and Wrenches assumes no liability for any property or personal damage that may arise from doing a repair on your vehicle after watching any of my repair video's. Due to factors beyond the control of Ratchets and Wrenches, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Again Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Ratchets and Wrenches.

[wesfields]

I know you're a very busy man, but I look forward for every new upload of your wisdom.

[wyattoneable]

Class is in session, I'm taking notes for the test. I always enjoy stopping by the shop!

[majormeteor]

Excellent troubleshooting. I liked how you went through what also worked and moved on to checking the TPS switch.

[ozzstars_cars]

The last time I wacked my sensor it was sore for two or three days. Eventually everything started working well again. Seriously though great info man!

[sketchuptec]

Thats how you do it and that how great people share their knowledge. Stay blessed Sir

[JonnyDIY]

Great tip with the screwdriver mimicing the bumps and vibrations of the road and engine. For the adjusting of the TPS, how does that work? Is there just an allowable tolerance spec you put it in and mount it?? 🤔

[craigtegeler]

I had a 91 Camaro 3.1 L engine that puked the TPS sensor at 93K miles and it had all the symptoms with erratic
idle and was easily validated. Also, given the amount of miles on the odometer, it is very common that a good
many vehicles for the mileage of 90K miles or better for the TPS to fail. Also, knowing that my Mom had the ECU
replaced by the dealer already for another problem all together previously. Upon replacing the TPS sensor, I also
took the liberty of cleaning the IAC Valve pintle and also inside the IAC port housing for good measure! I also
did cleaning of the internal throttle valve body and the mass airflow sensor as a scheduled service!

[illuminatedsoles]

Watching a professional mechanic troubleshoot live was actually really helpful 👍

[jeromesurffoil]

Excellent diagnostic tutorial! Thank you!

[richardzapor]

very good explanation, thanks and good timing for me because I am trying to diagnose a problem with my 2000 mazda .

[arvin]

what happens if i accidentally check the others for continuity to ground?😢

[GregRickard]

My idle switch is always at 11v, stuck there. I put a new tps and its still like that. any ideas?

[danielweeks]

Wait a minute. let me get this straight. You want us, all of us, to whack our sensors?

[lieutenantdan]

yeah 90's lexus and toyota ecus have leaking capacitors problems

[HouseCallAutoRepair]

Now, how do you properly calibrate it's position to the throttle plate? IAC, RPM, Voltages, Variations?
How's the Cali weather these days?

[gordonwedman]

That is weird. I don't understand how an off and on switch can give intermediate voltages.

[coycarlson]

Only paid $55, 000 for the vehicle - been running good for the past 6 years - why would I want to spend $65 for a new TPS just because the check engine light illuminates - I mean HEY, it only does it periodically 😐😏😳

[williamwhite]

Thank you for this video! Very interesting! If the "store" had this in stock, it must be a common failure on these cars.

[danielsimpson]

I like that you get it fixed right 😀

I would have done two things before replacing the switch and if it mostly fixed it, may have left it at that.. leading to a bad computer I guess lol

First would have been cleaning the throttle body. Second would have been cleaning the contacts of the sensor and disassemble it if able for further cleaning and inspection. Then while in there I'd probably clean the maf or map, anything I might have taken apart to get the TB off for a full cleaning. Lol

[HarryRenner-hq]

I have 1989 Ford F250 with a 351ci 5.8L V8 and because my scan tool doesn't work on OBD and OBD 1 systems. I pulled the code with the blinking check engine light. and got a 53 code and came up with TPS circuit above maximum 4.5 volts. but I'm not sure what the parameters are supposed to be for that particular TPS. or if it's something in the circuit that is out of range.