Parts for your 2004 Toyota Camry-Throttle position sensors

2004 Toyota Camry throttle position sensor: fitted, what it does, and how to look after it

Technical sources confirm the 2004 Toyota Camry does use a throttle position sensor (TPS). Toyota’s 2002–2006 Camry Repair Manual (Engine Control/SFI section), the 2004 Camry Electrical Wiring Diagram, and Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue all show a TPS signal being fed to the engine control module. On most 2004 Camry engines (2AZ‑FE 2.4L and 1MZ‑FE/3MZ‑FE V6), the TPS is integrated into the electronic throttle body as part of Toyota’s ETCS‑i system, some cable‑throttle market variants still have a separate, bolt‑on TPS at the throttle shaft.

On a 2004 Camry, the TPS tells the ECU exactly how far the throttle is open, moment to moment. That live feedback helps the car meter fuel, spark timing, and transmission behaviour so it accelerates smoothly, idles cleanly, and stays efficient on Aussie and Kiwi roads. In ETCS‑i models, there are dual TPS tracks inside the throttle body for redundancy, keeping the system safe and consistent.

While the TPS isn’t a scheduled replacement item, it’s smart to keep it on the radar during regular servicing, especially if the Camry’s done a few hundred thousand kilometres. A workshop will typically scan for codes (think P0120–P0123/P0220 range), check live data for smooth voltage sweep, and inspect the connector and loom for corrosion or cracked insulation.

• Common signs of trouble: erratic idle, hesitation off the line, surging cruise, poor fuel economy, harsh or odd shifts in autos, and the MIL/“check engine” light.
• Good maintenance habits: keep the throttle bore clean with a sensor‑safe cleaner (don’t drown the electronics), secure the air intake so dust stays out, and fix any vacuum leaks that can skew throttle control.
• Replacement notes: on ETCS‑i Camrys, the TPS is part of the throttle body and not separately serviceable—replace the throttle body assembly, then perform an idle/throttle relearn with a scan tool or as per the repair manual. On cable‑throttle versions, the TPS can be replaced on its own and, if adjustable, set to the specified base voltage using a multimeter.
• After any work: clear codes, warm the engine fully, let it idle a few minutes, then take a gentle drive so the ECU can settle trims.

Look after the TPS and the 2004 Camry rewards with that familiar smooth, reliable Toyota feel—easy starts, crisp throttle, and tidy fuel use on city runs and long hauls alike.

Popular questions about 2004 Toyota Camry throttle position sensors

Does a 2004 Toyota Camry have a throttle position sensor?
Yes. All 2004 Camry variants use a TPS. Most have it built into the electronic throttle body (ETCS‑i). Some cable‑throttle market versions use a separate, replaceable TPS mounted on the throttle shaft.

What are the symptoms of a failing TPS on a 2004 Camry?
Drivers often notice a rough or high idle, flat spots on take‑off, random surging, poorer fuel economy, and the check engine light. Scan tools may show DTCs like P0120–P0123 or P0220 series, and the live TPS signal won’t sweep smoothly.

Can the TPS be cleaned, or does it need replacing?
The sensor itself isn’t a cleanable item. Cleaning the throttle plate and bore can help drivability, but if the TPS track is worn or the signals don’t agree, replacement is the fix. On ETCS‑i cars, that means a new throttle body assembly, on cable‑throttle cars, the TPS can be swapped on its own and adjusted to spec.