What are the common throttle position sensor issues for the Honda Civic? Several difficulties may involve the throttle position sensor (TPS), including intermittent engine rev up/down, engine stalling, and rough engine running.
Indeed, the mixture of the incorrect amount of fuel and air is the key reason for those issues. But don’t forget that the Honda Civic throttle position sensor problems don’t come alone without warning you of some symptoms. Ignoring those warning signs makes the complications serious.
Dealing with them in the earlier stages is always preferable. But you can’t do it if you don’t know the causes, symptoms, and solutions of the issues. Relax! We’re here and will help you cover all the related information throughout this post.
So, just complete the reading to get them everything regarding the Honda Civic throttle body problems.
Honda Civic Throttle Position Sensor Problems – Let’s Know Everything
You may suddenly get the steering wheel stalled while trying to move it. The speed becomes unstable, and when you press the accelerator, you illuminate the check engine light. Yes, we’re talking about some issues and symptoms of the 2003 Honda Civic throttle position sensor that many users complain about.
Issues with the Honda Civic throttle position sensor adjustment can cause the said problems. We’ll describe all possible troubles with their reasons and solutions. But before we jump into the discussion, let’s get a quick look at the whole story in a summary table:
| Problems | Reasons | Solutions |
| Check Engine Light | The sensor is damaged. | Repair/replace the sensor |
| The Engine Stalling | Lack of enough fuel supply | Repair/replace the sensor |
| Uneven RPM | TPS can’t signal accurately | Replace the sensor |
| Bumpy Acceleration | Damaged TPS | Replace the sensor |
| higher fuel consumption | Wrong TPS calibration | Recalibrate/replace the TPS |
| Irregular Engine Idle | Loosely connected TPS | Reconnect/replace the TPS |
Honda Civic Throttle Position Sensor Problems & Fixes
Glowing Check Engine Light (CEL)
The issue of CEL on your dashboard can happen to a defective TPS. When this sensor becomes damaged, the engine control unit doesn’t get any data from the throttle position. Thus, the system warns you of the CEL and requires immediate action.
How To Fix It
You must diagnose and identify the suspected TPS. So, you need to bring your vehicle to the dealership or a professional auto mechanic to do it. After a diagnosis of the issue, they’ll be able to ensure whether the TPS wants a repair or replacement to fix the issue.
The Engine Stalling
When your vehicle gets a bad TPS, it makes issues with the engine. Stalling the engine is one of the 2005 Honda Civic throttle position sensor problems that happens for a damaged TPS. You must check the TPS to fix the issue if it occurs repeatedly.
How To Fix It
The engine stalling may happen for several reasons, such as faulty TPS and damaged wires/connections. So, it’s crucial to ensure the exact reason for the problem to fix it. Check the wire connections and damaged wires first. If they’re okay, TPS can be the culprit. You can ensure by checking it through a multimeter. Then, repair or replace the TPS as per needed.
Uneven RPM
Getting uneven RPM can be caused by the damaged TPS. It typically happens if the TPS doesn’t transmit a regular signal to the Engine Control Unit (ECU). Thus, it makes irregular motor revolutions.
How To Fix It
First, check all wires that connect the PCM and the TPS. If they’re okay, then check and diagnose the TPS. Replacing the damaged TPS will help you fix the issue.
Bumpy Acceleration
you can experience the 2000 Honda Civic throttle position sensor problems that happen for the TPS failure. The TPS is responsible for transmitting essential signals to the ECU regarding the required fuel quantity to accelerate the engine. When it doesn’t get the correct signal, it misbehaves with its users.
How To Fix It
Test and identify if the TPS is working properly. If not, replace the damaged TPS.
Higher Fuel Consumption
It’s one of the good Honda throttle position sensor symptoms and reasons for the TPS failure. Also, it may occur for wrong TPS calibration. Both reasons lead to higher fuel consumption than regular driving.
How To Fix It
Most probably, the issue is happening to the TPS malfunction or incorrect calibration. You must check and identify the exact reason with the help of a mechanic. It’s possible to determine the fixing process after recognizing the reason.
Irregular Engine Idle
Many reasons may involve irregular engine idling, including loosely connected wires, incorrect TPS calibration, and TPS failure. So, it requires a deep investigation to find out the associated reasons.
How To Fix It
Primarily, you can try to fix it by reconnecting the wires. If it doesn’t work, consult a professional to get the best results.
Honda Civic Throttle Position Sensor Problems – Potential Symptoms
The Honda Civic TPS sensor symptoms come with issues that help you understand what’s going wrong with your vehicle. Here is a list of the common TPS sensor warning signs:
| Symptoms Of The Honda Civic TPS Problems |
| The engine gets insufficient fuel which causes a lack of power. |
| The accelerator isn’t working properly, and the gears are shifting does so. |
| Check Engine Light is flashing with abnormal engine idle. |
| You’re refilling the fuel reservoir more often than before. |
| The engine is jerking or bucking unexpectedly without any reason. |
| You can’t shift the gear’s lever easily. |
| In some rare cases, the limp-home mode becomes active. |
How to Reset A Throttle Position Sensor?
Knowing how to reset throttle position sensor Honda Civic is vital to fix the issue and getting your vehicle in a normal state. To do it, remove the negative connection of the battery for about 5 minutes.
Also, you can reset the throttle position sensor by removing the Engine Control Module (ECM) fuse. After removing it, leave it for about five minutes and put it in its previous place. That’s all about the Honda throttle position sensor reset.
NOTE: You must avoid trying this if you’re not comfortable working with electricity or confused about what to do and how to do it. Also, when the abovementioned process gets failed, it’s suggested to consult a mechanic to fix the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
How Long Does A TPS Sensor Last?
Usually, a TPS sensor lasts up to five years. The inbuilt batteries play a vital role in their longevity. But it may fail before the expected duration, depending on your driving habits and conditions.
How To Repair The TPM Sensors?
The Ken-Tool KEN29980 TPMS Sensor Saver System Starter Kit can be a savior in repairing the TPM sensors. The kit comes with the whole thing you want to drill out the rusted valve core, tap new threads, and install a new, corrosion-resistant valve core and stem. It doesn’t require relearning the module by computer or removing the wheel or tire of your car. Also, you’ll get essential guidelines with the kit to repair the TPM sensors.
How Much Does The Throttle Position Sensor Replacement Cost?
On average, you must pay between $159 and $211 to replace the TPS, including parts and labor. But the cost may differ depending on the location and availability of labor.
How To Calibrate Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)?
To calibrate the TPS, release the accelerator pedal entirely. Switch the ignition “ON” and leave it for a minimum of two seconds. Now, switch it to “OFF” and leave it for about ten seconds. Once again, turn the ignition button “ON” and wait for two seconds. It should calibrate the TPS sensor correctly.
What Can Happen If I Leave The TPS Without Calibrating?
An incorrectly calibrated TPS can make the engine idle irregularly, higher fuel consumption, engine stalling, and hard acceleration.
The Bottom Line
You’ve got everything about the Honda Civic throttle position sensor problems with their reasons, symptoms, and possible fixes. Some of the issues are easy to fix, and you can do it yourself, while some others are good to leave for the mechanic as they’re tough to deal with independently.
However, never forget that any problems related to the TPS can be risky instantly. You must not leave them or wait until you get a collision or a penalty. As a result, whenever you get the symptoms, take them seriously and try to identify the issue.
You must consult a mechanic immediately if you can’t identify and fix the problems. Always remember that driving a car with a failed TPS is extremely dangerous.