Chat with us, powered by LiveChat How To Replace a Throttle Position Sensor on your Jeep Wrangler TJ | Quadratec Skip to main content
How-tos
Photography By: 
Michael Volk

My 2003 Jeep Wrangler TJ 4.0L Automatic was throwing a P0122 trouble code. Commonly the TPS just needs replaced. The Jeep since it was an automatic transmission relies on the TPS to run properly so the Wrangler actually stalled out a few times while driving.

What You Will Need

  • MOPAR® Throttle Position Sensor
  • 5/16" Nut Driver or Socket & Ratchet (intake removal)
  • 13mm or 1/2" Socket (battery terminal removal)
  • 10mm Shallow Socket (throttle body removal)
  • T-25 Torx Socket (TPS sensor removal)

Instructions

1. Remove the negative side battery terminal using a 13mm or 1/2" socket.

Step 1 - Disconnect negative battery terminal

2. Disconnect the TPS Sensor and IAC Motor connectors.

Step 2 - Disconnect the TPS Sensor and IAC Motor connections

3. Disconnect the MAP Sensor connector.

Step 3 - Disconnect the MAP Sensor connection

4. Disconnect the intake tube using a 5/16" socket or nut driver.

Step 4 - Disconnect the intake tube using a 5/16

5. Disconnect the throttle body cable by twisting off the ball socket as shown. Early models with automatic transmissions with have a "kick down" cable that will also need removed in similar fashion. Models with cruise control will have an extra cable that will also need disconnected.

Step 5 - disconnect throttle cables

6. Remove the four throttle body bolts using a 10mm socket.

Step 6 - remove throttle body bolts

7. Locate the TPS sensor and mounting hardware.

Step 7 - tps sensor

8. Remove the TPS Sensor bolts using a T-25 Torx socket.

Step 8 - removed tps sensor

9. New updated sensor on the left, old sensor style on the right. They are actually difference part numbers now too.

Step 9 - TPS comparison

10. Mount the new sensor on throttle body using the included hardware.

Step 10 - new tps installed

11. Mount your throttle body on the intake manifold making sure the inlet hole is lined up properly. Also take notice to gasket condition and replace if necessary. Hook up all electrical connections and cables. Attach the negative terminal to the battery.

Step 11 - throttle body installed

Top Jeep Articles

Red Jeep covered in snow with trees as a backdrop
  • December 16, 2025
  • 5 min read
Merry Jeepmas Day Nine: How to Remove Ice And Snow From Your Jeep's Soft Top Windows
How to Protect Your Jeep Soft Top Windows in Winter: Safe Snow Removal Tips, What to Avoid, and How to Prevent Cracking or Damage
READ MORE
  • December 16, 2025
  • 7 min read
In Stock: Top 10 Jeep Holiday Gifts Under $50
Last-Minute Jeep Gifts Under $50: Top In-Stock Accessories Every Wrangler or Gladiator Owner Will Appreciate This Holiday Season
READ MORE
  • December 15, 2025
  • 5 min read
Merry Jeepmas Day Eight: Tru-Fit Eco Leather Seat Covers
Built for the daily grind and the weekend getaway, Tru-Fit Eco Leather Seat Covers deliver the perfect blend of durability, comfort, and style for your Jeep’s interior.
READ MORE
  • December 12, 2025
  • 9 min read
Merry Jeepmas Day Seven: Top Winter Jeep Products
The short days and cold temperatures mean it is a great time to take inventory of what your Jeep needs. Here are some of the best moving products so far this season.
READ MORE
Orange Jeep on a snowy road with a mountain background
  • December 12, 2025
  • 4 min read
2026 Jeep Wrangler Whitecap: A Heritage-Driven Special Edition That Celebrates Jeep’s Past While Defining Its Future
A Heritage-Inspired Special Edition Celebrating Jeep’s 85 Years With Retro Styling, Modern Capability, and a Yearlong Twelve 4 Twelve Rollout
READ MORE
  • December 11, 2025
  • 4 min read
Merry Jeepmas Day Six: Quadratec Dead Pedal
Why the Quadratec Jeep Dead Pedal Is a Must for any JL & JT Owner on Your Gift List this Holiday Season.
READ MORE
  • December 11, 2025
  • 4 min read
Jeep Headlights Q&A: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Next Upgrade
A Complete Guide to Jeep Headlight Upgrades: LED vs. Halogen, Projectors vs. Reflectors, Legal Options, Installation Tips & FAQ for Wrangler and CJ Owners
READ MORE
  • December 10, 2025
  • 7 min read
Merry Jeepmas Day Five: How To Enjoy Jeep Winter Driving
Essential Winter Driving Tips for Jeep Owners: How to Prepare, Maintain Traction, and Stay Safe on Snow- and Ice-Covered Trails
READ MORE
  • December 9, 2025
  • 8 min read
Merry Jeepmas Day Four: Best Jeep Winter Trail Recovery Tips
Along with picturesque scenery, winter months also offer some amazing off-roading that offers its own set of features and challenges that you should realize.
READ MORE