Parts for your 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero-Throttle position sensors

2000 Mitsubishi Pajero throttle position sensor (TPS) — what it does and how to look after it

Yes, the 2000 Mitsubishi Pajero uses a throttle position sensor. Mitsubishi’s factory Workshop Manual for Pajero/Montero (circa 1999–2002, Group 13A Engine Controls) documents the TPS on 6G7-series petrol engines and includes DTCs P0120–P0124 plus a TPS adjustment procedure. The Mitsubishi Electronic Parts Catalogue (ASA/CAPS) also lists a “Sensor, throttle position” for 2000 Pajero variants. For diesels of the same era, the Workshop Manual details an accelerator position sensor and a throttle valve position sensor used for EGR/anti‑shudder control, with related diagnostics. So, whether petrol or diesel, the 2000 Pajero platform relies on throttle/accelerator position sensing as part of its engine management.

On petrol models, the TPS sits on the throttle body and tells the ECU exactly how far the throttle plate is open. That signal helps fine‑tune fuel injection, ignition timing and idle control. When it’s healthy, throttle response feels crisp, gear shifts on autos are well‑timed, and fuel economy stays on point. When it’s crook, expect iffy idle, flat spots on acceleration, higher fuel use, or the check‑engine light.

As part of routine servicing, it’s worth giving the TPS and throttle body a bit of love. Under the bonnet, make sure the throttle body is clean and the TPS connector isn’t green or crusty with corrosion. A quick spritz of quality electrical contact cleaner on the plug, and a careful clean of the throttle bore and plate (using throttle‑safe cleaner) helps the ECU get stable readings. Some petrol variants use an adjustable TPS, if it’s been replaced or the throttle body’s been off, follow the workshop spec to set the voltage at closed throttle and confirm with scan‑tool data.

If replacement is on the cards, go for a quality sensor and new gasket/O‑ring where applicable. Disconnect the battery, mark the old sensor’s position (if slotted), swap it over, then clear fault codes and perform an idle re‑learn with a scan tool if required. A short road test with live data is the cherry on top.

• Common symptoms: erratic idle, hesitation, sudden stalling, harsh/late shifts (auto), check‑engine light with P0120–P0124.
• Simple checks: connector integrity, wiring rub‑through, throttle body cleanliness, scan‑tool TPS percentage moving smoothly from closed to wide open.
• Service tip: after cleaning or replacement, verify TPS readings are linear and stable, any dropouts mean the sensor’s on the way out.

Where is the TPS on a 2000 Pajero?
On petrol engines, it’s bolted to the side of the throttle body, opposite the throttle cable/linkage. On diesel variants, position sensing is handled by an accelerator pedal/injection‑pump sensor and a throttle valve position sensor used for EGR/anti‑shudder, these are mounted at the pedal/pump and on the throttle valve housing respectively.

What are the signs the TPS needs replacing?
A dodgy TPS often shows up as rough or wandering idle, hesitation on take‑off, flat spots, or an illuminated MIL with codes like P0120–P0124. If scan data shows the TPS percentage jumping around while the pedal is steady, the sensor’s likely worn.

Do diesel 2000 Pajeros use a TPS?
They don’t meter engine air with a traditional throttle during normal running, but they do use position sensors: an accelerator position sensor and a throttle valve position sensor for EGR control and anti‑shudder. The workshop literature for 4M40/4M41 documents these sensors and related diagnostics, so position sensing is definitely part of the system.