Throttle Position Sensor: Testing and Inspection

To perform a complete test of the this sensor and its circuitry, refer to the DRB scan tool and appropriate Powertrain Diagnostics Procedures. To test the throttle position sensor only, refer to the following:
The Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) can be tested with a digital voltmeter (DVM). The center terminal of the sensor is the output terminal. One of the other terminals is a 5 volt supply and the remaining terminal is ground.

Connect the DVM between the center and sensor ground terminal.

With the ignition switch in the ON position, check the output voltage at the center terminal wire of the connector. Check the output voltage at idle and at Wide-Open-Throttle (WOT). At idle, TPS output voltage should be approximately 0.38 volts to 1.2 volts. At wide open throttle, TPS output voltage should be approximately 3.1 volts to 4.4 volts. The output voltage should gradually increase as the throttle plate moves slowly from idle to WOT.

Check for spread terminals at the sensor and PCM connections before replacing the TPS.