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Throttle Position Sensor Replacement Cost Estimate
Throttle Position Sensor Replacement Cost Estimate
Worried you might overpay for your throttle position sensor replacement? Use Jerry’s GarageGuard to get fair cost estimate for your throttle position sensor replacement.
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John Davis
Expert Automotive Writer
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content
Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor
What's on this page?
- How much does it cost to replace a throttle position sensor?
- Where can I get my throttle position sensor replaced?
- How will a mechanic replace my throttle position sensor?
- What happens if I don’t replace a bad throttle position sensor?
- What is a throttle position sensor?
- Is replacing a throttle position sensor yourself easy?
- FAQs
- Meet Our Experts
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How much does it cost to replace a throttle position sensor?
You can expect an average total replacement cost of $192 for a throttle position sensor, with $102 for parts and $90 for mechanic labor. The exact price will depend on your vehicle.
How long does it take to replace a throttle position sensor? In general, it takes around 0.8 hours for a certified mechanic to complete the job. Your mechanic will perform a preliminary inspection to determine if a replacement is necessary, then follow through with the full replacement.
Here’s an overview of throttle position sensor replacement costs for different vehicles:
Throttle position sensor replacement cost for various vehicles
| Estimate Date | Customer | Car | Fair Cost Estimate | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Labor Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
November 12, 2024 | Alvin, 27 Stone Mountain, GA | Isuzu NPR | $131 | $45 | $87 | 0.8 Hours |
November 6, 2024 | Polly, 37 Mobile, AL | Fiat 500L | $145 | $45 | $100 | 0.8 Hours |
November 5, 2024 | Noah, 40 Miami, FL | Eagle Talon | $136 | $45 | $91 | 0.8 Hours |
November 5, 2024 | Willie, 40 Westfield, IN | Audi R8 | $144 | $45 | $99 | 0.8 Hours |
November 3, 2024 | Harry, 44 Concord, CA | Mini Cooper | $171 | $45 | $126 | 0.8 Hours |
How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.
How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.
See fair price estimates for popular cars
What parts do I need for my throttle position sensor replacement and how much do those parts cost?
You can check your owner’s manual or ask your mechanic for precise parts, but here are the main things you’ll need:
- Throttle position sensor: This is the main component that needs to be replaced. A throttle position sensor is an engine sensor used to track the airflow entering the engine. On its own, a new throttle position sensor can range anywhere from $25 to $150.
- Throttle plate: A throttle plate is a valve that regulates the amount of vaporized fuel that enters your car engine’s cylinders. Although you might not need to replace this part with the throttle position sensor, it's a good idea to get your mechanic to inspect it, especially if you have an older vehicle. In the case that it also needs replacement, throttle plates normally cost between $30 to $175.
- Throttle body: The throttle body regulates the flow of air and fuel into your car's cylinders. If your mechanic determines that it also needs replacement, a new throttle body can cost anywhere from $100 to $1000.
- Throttle body gasket: Made of paper or aluminum, the throttle body gasket sits between the throttle body and intake manifold and ensures an airtight seal to prevent air bypass. It’s often replaced during throttle body service, and usually goes for $5 to $25.
You can purchase throttle position sensor parts for your car from auto parts stores like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and RockAuto. Three of our recommended brands for throttle position sensor parts are ACDelco, Standard Motor Products, and Beck Arnley. For throttle plates and throttle bodies, we recommend brands like Dorman, ACDelco, and Cardone provide, and for throttle body gaskets, Fel-Pro, Mahle, and Victor Reinz. With this said, the best parts and brands for your throttle position sensor will vary based on your vehicle’s year, make, and model.
Should I buy an OEM or aftermarket throttle position sensor?
Although both OEM and aftermarket throttle position sensors have their benefits and tend to be reliable, OEMs usually provide more longevity than their more cost-effective aftermarket counterparts.
Where can I buy a throttle position sensor replacement?
You can purchase throttle position sensors at body shops and auto parts shops like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts, as well as through online retailers like Amazon and RockAuto.
Tip: It’s best to first check your owner’s manual to confirm that the parts you’re purchasing are compatible with your vehicle.
Where can I get my throttle position sensor replaced?
With the rundown on 2,500+ vetted repair shops nationwide, Jerry's
GarageGuard™
can make the search for a mechanic to replace your throttle position sensor a lot easier.Jerry's GarageGuard™ compares fair price estimates from local shops using actual hourly rates. You’ll be able to budget for diagnostic fees and see reviews from previous customers to make sure you’ll be happy with your service.
Here’s a look at some of our vetted shops below—and you can download the app to compare car repair quotes in your area.
109 Reviews
Logan's Automotive Mobile Service
2000 Towne Park Dr, McDonough, GA
Throttle Position Sensor Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$192
(Parts - $127, Labor - $65)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$65186 Reviews
Oak Street Station
2403 US HWY 18 INWOOD, Inwood, IA
Throttle Position Sensor Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$212
(Parts - $127, Labor - $85)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$30181 Reviews
Byrider Bedford
90 Broadway Ave, Bedford, OH
Throttle Position Sensor Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$207
(Parts - $127, Labor - $80)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$65142 Reviews
National Transmission Co, Inc
4420 Griggs Rd, Houston, TX
Throttle Position Sensor Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$242
(Parts - $127, Labor - $115)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$0How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.
How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.
How will a mechanic replace my throttle position sensor?
For this service, your mechanic will test the throttle position sensor to verify it has failed and replace it with a new one. When replacing your TPS, your mechanic will typically follow these steps:
- Scan the car’s computer system for error codes
- Pop the hood to inspect the throttle plate and the surrounding area
- Test the throttle position sensor and related wiring
- Remove the faulty TPS
- Install new functioning TPS
- Clean any carbon buildup from the throttle body
- Reinstall the throttle body and reset the minimum idle speed to the factory setting
- Clear any trouble codes from the car’s computer and check for proper operation
- Drive the car to test for proper gear shifting, speed, and acceleration
What happens if I don’t replace a bad throttle position sensor?
If the sensor fails, the computer cannot calculate how much air is already in the engine and won’t inject the right amount of fuel.
This is a fairly normal problem, but it needs to be taken care of quickly.
You should take your car to the shop for an inspection when you notice any signs of this problem. To run efficiently, your car needs the right ratio of air and fuel. When the throttle position sensor stops working, the engine will not get the right amount of air and will lose power. You may not be able to shift gears, and the car may not even start anymore.
What is a throttle position sensor?
Your car relies on the right fuel-to-air ratio to run properly, and this ratio is managed by the air intake system. The throttle body controls how much air enters the car’s engine through the throttle plate—essentially, the more you push down on the gas pedal, the wider it opens, allowing more air into the engine.
The throttle position sensor (TPS) tells your car’s computer, or engine control unit (ECU), what position the throttle plate is in, and then the computer calculates how much fuel needs to be injected into the air intake system. If the sensor fails, the computer cannot calculate how much air is already in the engine and won’t inject the right amount of fuel.
What are the symptoms of a bad throttle position sensor?
There might be a few symptoms that your speed sensor needs fixing, such as:
- Poor engine performance, including engine stalling and misfiring
- Lack of power
- Gears stop shifting
- The check engine light comes on
How often do you need to replace a throttle position sensor?
Throttle position sensors don’t have specific lifespans. While these sensors can last the lifetime of your car, failures start becoming more common once your car’s mileage exceeds 80,000 miles.
Is replacing a throttle position sensor yourself easy?
Although replacing a throttle position sensor isn’t the trickiest project, if you decide to go the solo route, be sure to be confident in your DIY auto repair skills. If you don’t have the right tools and experience, we recommend letting a certified mechanic fix the problem.
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FAQs
How long does it take to replace a throttle position sensor?
This service takes around one hour to complete.
Can I drive my car with a broken throttle position sensor?
You shouldn’t drive with a broken throttle position sensor. When the throttle position sensor stops working, the engine will not get the right amount of air and will lose power, which means the car may not start, and you won’t be able to shift gears if it does.
Meet Our Experts
John Davis
Car Expert
Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience
John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.
Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.
Jessica Barrett
Car Expert
Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.
Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.
Kathleen Flear
Car Expert
Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.
*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.