Write up: 01-02 T4R Throttle Position Sensor Info

[nbach218]

Hi everyone,

Just thought I could compile some useful information about the 01-02 Throttle Position Sensor based on my recent experience.

First off, the 01-02 TPS is different from the 96-00 year models when equipped with TRAC and VSC. The 01-02 uses a drive-by-wire with a throttle position sensor (APPS) near the gas pedal and the actual TPS on the back side closest to the firewall of the throttle body. There are lots of reasons to suspect a bad throttle position sensor. Some include P0121 code, vehicle hesitation, transmission shifting issues, etc.

If you suspect a bad TPS, here are your options for replacement:
1) Call the dealership and they will sell you part # 89452-35020 which is a 3 pin connector. The 01-02 with VSC and TRAC uses a 4 pin connector. Obviously that won't work. When searching by your VIN, the dealer's computer can't come up with a TPS. You have to replace the ENTIRE throttle body which is $1400!!

2) Every aftermarket option cross references to Toyota part #89452-35020 and are all a 3 pin connector. So, no aftermarket option is available.

3) Looking at the original throttle body, note the part number on the original TPS of #89452-35030. Cross referencing that part number will lead you nowhere fast. The dealer shows that's not a good part number, same with all the aftermarket parts sellers.

Now what do you do? Still no viable options so far.

3) Search car-part.com for a used throttle body, they go for around $250.

4) Search alibaba.com for part number #89452-35030 and that will yield results from sellers in China, with a minimum order of 5 TPS units costing between $9-$30 each. Are they Chinese made or Toyota OEM? I have no clue.

5) Suggested action: call Toyota customer care at 1-800-331-4331 and report that the part number you were initially given was incorrect, and that in order to replace a $50 sensor you have to spend $1400. The more people that call, the more Toyota will look into the issue. I am going to call.

6) When discussing possible part number options, one did come up from some sellers on Alibaba.com specializing in Japanese vehicle sensors. So far, I can't see anyone who has tried this. Part # 89452-22080. Cross referencing that part number on Toyodiy.com says it will fit the 01-02 4Runner with frame models VZN18x (our US frame models). Looking at images of that part number online yields a 4 pin connector! This could be a solution as a TPS is just a potentiometer.

Just thought I would help out other people looking for possible fixes of a bad TPS on the 01-02 4Runners. The same options apply for the 01-04 Tacomas, which make you wonder why Toyota has not addressed this issue given the quantity of vehicles in this range on the road.

Nice write up I will be using for reference soon! Thank you!

 

[DHope]

Purchased a new throttle body and things didn't go well after a week.

VSC Off and Trac lights lit up along with engine light. P1125 code.

There's a sour spot 1/3 pedal.
VSC relays click away during hestitation.

Exploring the idea of blue tooth ODB II device and data log to see if the TPS voltage is a problem, or :lookout: ECM or ECM connector.

Did you ever get your problem resolved? All my sensors have the resistance the should. I am not sure how to test to see if the ecm is the problem. I am thinking the ecm or a new throttle body?

 

[DHope]

Did you ever get your problem resolved? All my sensors have the resistance the should. I am not sure how to test to see if the ecm is the problem. I am thinking the ecm or a new throttle body?

Someone, anyone... lol. My sensors all check out. I have thrown on a used tb changed the tps with three different sensors, adjusted tps sensors, checked for voltage to the sensors, cleaned all electrical connections. Occasionally I can start it and it will run for good for about 5-6 miles, then it falls on its face and it’s basically in limp mode. Most of the time I start it up and it’s already in limp mode. Code says Tps. Am I just not setting the tps correctly? Been dealing with this for two weeks to no avail.

 

[Drifter2080]

Anyone know how to adjust the new tps properly?

I removed my old one and put it back on but the oem markings were rubbed off, I can't get the idle to the proper position and also adjust down after the cold start process. After a cold start the idle stays high until I touch the gas pedal then it drops down, before it did this automatically.

Side note (here is a link to the proper tps):
For 2000-2002 Toyota 4Runner Throttle Position Sensor 13661VC 2001 3.4L V6 | eBay

 

[monthaftermarch]

Another source for 4-pin TPS

It seems they come and go with different retailers. Most recently I found this one. Waiting on delivery to see if it is truly correct. If it is not I will post a follow up.

TPS Sensor- Toyota 3.4L 5VZFE 4Runner & Tacoma Aisan Throttle Position Sensor (2000-2004) TPS4-35030

 

[anniesball72]

Thanks let us know

 

[96RedRunner]

Partsgeek has 62 Aisan brand in stock at $37.00. What I used going on 2 yrs ago all is well since.

As a side note, I used a scribe to mark the mounting ears position on TB before removing it.