Parts for your 2000 Nissan Bluebird-Throttle position sensors

2000 Nissan Bluebird throttle position sensor (TPS) — what it does and when to service it

Yes, the 2000 Nissan Bluebird is fitted with a throttle position sensor. On the U14-series Bluebird (typical 2000 models with SR20DE or QG18DE engines), the TPS mounts to the throttle body and reports throttle angle to the engine control module. This is documented in the Nissan Bluebird U14 Factory Service Manual (EC/Engine Control section, 1999–2000 editions) and the Nissan FAST electronic parts catalogue, which lists a “Sensor Assy – Throttle Position” under the engine control group for these engines. Generic technical data sources used in Australian and New Zealand workshops (e.g., Autodata) also show TPS inputs and related OBD‑II faults for these engines.

On this Bluebird, the TPS helps the ECU sort fuelling and ignition timing, stabilise idle, and sharpen tip-in response. On auto-trans models, it also influences shift quality. Some units combine a variable resistor signal with an idle switch, others are a single multi-pin sensor. Either way, if the signal is erratic, the car can feel doughy off the line, surge at light throttle, or hang onto gears longer than it should.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but it’s smart to check TPS behaviour during routine servicing, especially if the car has high kilometres or a rough idle. Typical clues that point to TPS drama include:

• Hesitation, flat spots, or hunting idle
• Poor fuel economy or black tailpipe soot
• Harsh or late shifts in auto models
• Fault codes like P0120–P0123 (TPS circuit/performance/low/high)

Good practice under the bonnet includes cleaning the throttle body, ensuring the throttle cable isn’t too tight, and verifying TPS readings with a scan tool. A smooth percentage rise from closed to wide open is the go, with a multimeter, expect roughly 0.45–0.55 V at closed throttle and about 4 V near wide open on many Nissan setups. If adjustment is needed, the TPS can usually be rotated slightly after loosening its small screws to set the closed-throttle voltage or confirm the idle switch closes at rest.

When replacing, match the sensor style to the engine (some Bluebirds use a two-connector sensor/switch assembly, others a single combined plug). Use a quality part, set it to spec, snug the screws (don’t overdo it), clear any codes, and perform an idle learn if required. A short road test should confirm crisp throttle response and tidy shifting. These fitments and procedures are covered across Nissan’s U14 service literature (EC section) and the FAST EPC part listings for SR/QG engines.

Popular questions about 2000 Nissan Bluebird TPS

Where is the TPS on a 2000 Bluebird and how can it be checked quickly?
It’s bolted to the side of the throttle body, opposite the throttle cable quadrant. A quick check is to view TPS percentage or voltage on a scan tool and crack the throttle by hand — the reading should climb smoothly with no dropouts. With a multimeter on the signal wire, look for a stable rise from around half a volt at closed throttle to roughly four volts near wide open.

Does a replacement TPS need calibration?
Yes. After bolting it on, the sensor is typically rotated slightly to achieve the correct closed‑throttle voltage or to ensure the idle switch closes at rest. Many workshops then run an idle learn or throttle relearn so the ECU settles into a steady idle.

Are there different TPS types on the 2000 Bluebird?
There can be, depending on engine and throttle body. SR20DE and QG18DE variants may use either a dual‑connector sensor/switch assembly or a single combined multi‑pin sensor. Always confirm by VIN/engine code or by visually matching the old unit.