4 Signs You Have a Faulty Throttle Position Sensor

When driving, you may notice a difference in the way your car accelerates or idles. These problems could be caused by a malfunctioning throttle position sensor. This sensor detects the amount of pressure you are placing on the gas pedal and ensures that the correct mix of air and fuel is added to the engine to produce the required acceleration. If this sensor fails, it can lead to a range of problems. Below is a guide to 3 signs that you have a faulty throttle position sensor.

A delay when trying to accelerate

A delay when trying to accelerate is a classic sign of a faulty throttle position sensor. This delay occurs because although you are pressing your foot down on the accelerator pedal, the sensor is not immediately relaying this information to the engine and fuel systems. If you notice a delay when you try to accelerate, you should have your car inspected at an auto repair shop. 

Loss of power during acceleration

A malfunctioning throttle position sensor may also cause your car to lose power during acceleration. When this occurs, the car will begin to pick up speed as normal, only for the engine output to drop suddenly even though you still have your foot on the accelerator. This problem occurs because of an intermittent fault on the sensor. The sensor operates as it should at the beginning of the acceleration process but then cuts out mid acceleration and restricts the amount of fuel and air reaching the engine, resulting in a loss of power.

Frequent engine stalls

Another sign that the throttle position sensor is defective is when your car begins to frequently stall at random intervals. The stalling may occur while the vehicle is in motion or the car is idling and will not be a result of poor clutch control. The engine stalls when the signal from the throttle position sensor suddenly fails, causing the engine to be starved of fuel.

Spontaneous acceleration

If you notice that your vehicle begins to accelerate when you do not have your foot on the gas pedal, this is a clear sign that the throttle position sensor is sending false signals to the engine telling it that you have your foot pressed down on the accelerator when you do not. This is a highly dangerous fault which could result in you losing control of your vehicle. If you notice that this is occurring, you should have your car inspected by a qualified auto mechanic.

If you have any concerns about your vehicle, you should take it to an auto repair shop today.