The TPS (throttle position sensor) is a switch that attaches to the outside of the fuel injection body or manifold on the top of the engine. It became more complicated and important when computerized transmissions were introduced, thus working together with your engine. In a certain sense, it is attached to your foot by way of the throttle cable or newer cable-less systems on the more modern cars. When ever you move the accelerator, the TPS moves.
The TPS is one of the main communication devices or inputs on the engine. Since it is essentially attached to your foot, when you press the gas pedal hard, it tells the engine to deliver more power and perform appropriately for the driving situation you are in. If you put the pedal to the metal, it tells the engine to put out full power and gives a signal to the tranny as well, so the tranny knows more power is being delivered to it.
A TPS gets quite a bit of activity, as you can imagine. They cause some unusual and serious engine and transmission problems, to say the least. In most cases it will turn the Check Engine Light on. If it does not turn on, and your engine starts to act weird, take it to a qualified engine repair shop and have your car diagnosed. A TPS beats a rebuilt engine.
I don’t want to nor do I think it is relevant to the subject, but the TPS has many more duties to perform than giving your engine and transmission orders. The bottom line is the TPS does wear out and causes unusual problems with the engine in particular. Don’t take a chance, if your engine lite comes on and your car starts to run poorly, it’s time to have a professional mechanic take a look.
Don’t put yourself in a spot where your engine needs to be replaced. It can happen, trust me. If the need occurs for one of our high quality remanufactured engines happens, call GotEngines.com @ 1-941-269-8284.
