How To Reset The Throttle Position Sensor In A Chevy - Vehicle Freak

• Brian Onyango

Updated on April 8, 2024

Chevy’s are known for their durability and performance. However, like any vehicle, they will eventually need some maintenance.

One thing that may need to be done is resetting the throttle position sensor. How to reset the throttle position sensor in a Chevy is not difficult. This can be done in three simple procedures.

To reset the throttle position sensor in a Chevy, disconnect the negative battery and then disconnect the throttle position sensor. Clean any debris that may be on the sensor or in the connector. Reattach the sensor and the battery, and your Chevy should be good to go.

When you notice your Chevy isn’t performing as it should, or if the check engine light comes on, it may be time to reset the throttle position sensor. By following these simple steps, you can keep your Chevy running like a charm for many miles to come.

The Throttle Position Sensor

The throttle is the part of the air intake system that controls the amount of air that flows into the engine. The throttle position sensor (TPS) is a sensor that measures the position of the throttle and sends a signal to the engine control unit (ECU). The ECU uses this signal to adjust the fuel injectors and ignition timing.

The throttle position sensor is located on the throttle body. It works by measuring the amount of air that is flowing through the throttle body in response to the driver’s acceleration.

The throttle sensor is a common cause of engine performance problems. If the throttle sensor is not working correctly, it can cause the engine to run lean (too much air and not enough fuel) or rich (too much fuel and not enough air).

Steps to Reset the Throttle Position Sensor in a Chevy

1. Disconnect the Negative Battery Terminal

The first step is to disconnect the negative battery terminal. This will prevent any electrical accidents from happening while you’re working on the sensor.

2. Locate the Throttle Position Sensor

The throttle position sensor is located on the side of the throttle body. Once you have found it, disconnect the connector and remove the sensor. Clean any debris that may be on the sensor or in the connector.

3. Clean the Throttle Position Sensor

The next step is to clean the throttle position sensor. You can do this by using a can of compressed air or by blowing it into the connector.

Once you have cleaned the throttle position sensor, reconnect the connector and reattach the sensor to the throttle body.

4. Reconnecting the Negative Battery Terminal

After you have finished cleaning the throttle position sensor, the next step is to reconnect the negative battery terminal. This will complete the process of resetting the throttle position sensor in your Chevy.

To view our video on resetting the throttle position sensor in a chevy, check this out:

Reprograming the Throttle Position Sensor

1. The Acceleration Pedal Release Position

Fully release the accelerator pedal of your car and turn on the chevy’s ignition switch for about two seconds. Switch off the ignition switch immediately and wait for ten seconds then turn on the ignition switch for two seconds and wait for another ten seconds.

2. Program TPS for a Closed Throttle Valve

Incline the throttle valve closed position and turn on the ignition switch by car keys for about ten seconds. Switch off the ignition and wait for ten seconds, the sound will stop as a result. Through this, you will be able to determine whether the sound has stopped or not.

3. Gauge the Throttle Position Sensor

Free the accelerator and turn on the ignition switch for about three seconds. Cut the accelerator pedal with force then release and wait for up to seven seconds to depress the pedal fully.

Release the pedal for three seconds and start the engine to idle for about twenty seconds and check for the illuminating lights to glow up.

Signs of Bad Throttle Position Sensors

Several symptoms can arise when your throttle position sensor is going bad.

1. An Illuminated Check Engine Light

The check engine light is one of the first signs that your throttle position sensor may be failing. The check engine light can come on for several reasons, but if it’s accompanied by any of the other symptoms on this list, it’s worth investigating the throttle position sensor as a possible cause.

2. Erratic or Jumpy Idling

In case your throttle position sensor is going bad, it can cause your engine to idle erratically or “jump.” This can be caused by a build-up of carbon deposits on the sensor itself.

3. Decrease in Fuel Efficiency

A decrease in fuel efficiency is another common symptom of a bad throttle position sensor. This is because the sensor is responsible for sending the correct amount of air to the engine, and if it’s not functioning properly, the engine will use more fuel than it needs to.

4. Vehicle Hesitating or Stalling When Accelerating

In case your vehicle is hesitating or stalling when you try to accelerate, it could be a sign that the throttle position sensor is going bad. This is because the sensor tells the engine how much air to let in, and if it’s not working properly, the engine can’t get enough air and will stall.

FAQs

How Often Should I Change My Throttle Position Sensor?

Your throttle position sensor should only be changed if it tests bad. However, if you notice any issues with your vehicle’s performance, it’s best to take it to a mechanic to have it checked out.

Does a Throttle Position Sensor Need to Be Calibrated?

Yes, a throttle position sensor needs to be calibrated if it’s replaced. You can usually have this done at a mechanic, but you may be able to do it yourself if you have the right tools.

What Are the Symptoms of a Bad Throttle Position Sensor?

In case your throttle position sensor is going bad, you may notice issues with your vehicle’s performance, such as reduced fuel efficiency or power. You may also notice that your check engine light is on.

How Do I Reset My Throttle Position Sensor?

You can reset your throttle position sensor by disconnecting the battery and then reconnecting it after a few seconds. This will clear any codes that may be stored in the computer and allow the sensor to relearn its idle position.

Can a TPS Sensor Cause No Start?

Yes, a TPS sensor can cause your vehicle to not start. This is because the sensor tells the computer how much air is entering the engine, and if it’s not reading correctly, the engine will not start.

What Happens If You Unplug the Throttle Sensor Position?

When you unplug the throttle position sensor, your vehicle will have normal acceleration and correct idle if the sensor has a problem. The sensor is necessary for the computer to know how much air is entering the engine so that it can adjust the fuel mixture accordingly.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Throttle Position Sensor?

The cost of replacing a throttle position sensor can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. However, it’s typically around $110-$200.

Conclusion

To reset the throttle position sensor in your Chevy, you’ll need to release the accelerator pedal and turn on the ignition switch for two seconds. You should then turn the ignition switch off and wait for ten seconds.

After this, you can switch on the ignition and wait for another ten seconds then start your car as normal.

If you notice any issues with your vehicle’s performance, it’s best to take it to a mechanic to have it checked out. You can usually have this done at a mechanic, but you may be able to do it yourself if you have the right tools.

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