What are the symptoms of a damaged throttle pedal position sensor?
2 Answers
When an electronic throttle pedal malfunctions, symptoms may include abnormal noises when pressing the pedal or the pedal not returning to its original position. Most electronic throttle pedal failures are caused by internal throttle pedal sensor malfunctions. If the throttle pedal sensor fails or is damaged, the malfunction indicator light will illuminate. The ECU will be unable to detect the throttle position, leading to unstable idle speed, throttle sticking, unresponsive acceleration, and other issues, rendering the vehicle inoperable. Function of the electronic throttle pedal: As a critical component of the electronic throttle control system, the performance of the electronic throttle pedal not only affects the vehicle's power, comfort, fuel economy, and other performance evaluation metrics but also directly impacts driving safety. How the electronic throttle works: The electronic throttle uses a position sensor to transmit signals indicating the depth and speed of pedal depression. These signals are received and interpreted by the ECU, which then issues control commands. The throttle valve adjusts its opening angle accordingly, either quickly or gradually. Repairing the throttle pedal sensor: If the throttle pedal sensor fails, it should be inspected and repaired promptly. Remove the throttle assembly, locate the signal output wires corresponding to the sensor, and use a multimeter in resistance mode to measure the circuit. Move the pedal and observe changes in the meter readings to determine if there is a fault. Check for any broken wires or disconnected connectors in the sensor harness. If damage is found, replace the sensor directly.
Having driven for over a decade, I've noticed that when the throttle position sensor fails, the vehicle becomes sluggish. Pressing the accelerator doesn't give a sense of acceleration—it feels like stepping on cotton. Sometimes, the engine RPM fluctuates wildly, causing the car to suddenly lurch forward and then stop, which can be quite startling. The yellow engine light on the dashboard often comes on, signaling an issue. Even worse, the car might automatically enter "limp mode," limiting speed to 30-40 km/h, making it hard to climb. These symptoms can resemble spark plug issues or a dirty air filter, making it easy to confuse. But I advise not to ignore it, as it affects driving safety—losing power on the highway can be very dangerous. Quickly find a reliable repair shop to run a computer diagnostic; fixing it isn't too expensive. During regular maintenance, pay attention to electronic components to avoid unexpected breakdowns on the road.
