Parts for your 2006 Nissan Maxima-Throttle position sensors

2006 Nissan Maxima throttle-position-sensors: what they are and how to look after them

Yes — the 2006 Nissan Maxima is fitted with throttle-position sensors (TPS). Technical references including the Nissan 2006 Maxima Factory Service Manual (EC section: Electronic Throttle Control System), Nissan parts catalogues for the VQ35DE throttle body, and common Nissan DTC coverage (P0121/P0122/P0123/P0221/P0222/P0223/P2135) all specify dual TPS signals integrated into the electronic throttle body. Nissan documentation notes the TPS is non-adjustable and typically serviced as part of the throttle body assembly.

On this Maxima, the TPS isn’t a separate little switch on a cable throttle like older cars. It’s built into the electronic throttle body, working alongside the throttle motor and accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor. Its job is to tell the engine computer exactly how far the throttle plate is open. That lets the ECU manage fuel, spark, idle speed and cruise in a smooth, drive-by-wire way, whether you’re creeping in traffic or overtaking on the motorway.

Because the TPS is integrated, routine “maintenance” is more about keeping the throttle body clean and ensuring the ECU knows its baseline positions. If the butterfly or bore gets grubby with carbon, the readings can drift and the car may idle high, hesitate, or drop into limp mode. A careful clean with throttle-body-safe spray helps, but don’t force the plate by hand.

If the TPS or throttle body fails, replacement is straightforward but benefits from the right procedure. After refitting, perform these learnings with a suitable scan tool (CONSULT or equivalent) or the correct pedal/ignition sequence:

• Accelerator Pedal Released Position Learning
• Throttle Valve Closed Position Learning
• Idle Air Volume Learning

Skipping relearns can leave the idle off or trigger fault codes. Many Nissan service guides also recommend checking for ECM software updates where DTC P2135 or related TPS correlation faults are present.

Signs it’s time to inspect the throttle body/TPS on a 2006 Maxima:

• Erratic idle, stalling, or poor throttle response
• Limp-home behaviour and reduced power
• Check Engine Light with codes like P0121–P0123, P0221–P0223, or P2135

As a service tip, consider inspecting and cleaning the throttle body every 40–60,000 km, replacing the gasket if removed. If the ECU logs TPS range or correlation faults after cleaning, or the unit fails basic tests, replace the throttle body assembly rather than hunting for an “adjustment” screw — there isn’t one on this model. Using quality parts and completing all relearn steps will keep the Maxima’s throttle crisp and consistent.

Popular questions about 2006 Nissan Maxima throttle-position-sensors

Where is the TPS on a 2006 Maxima?

It’s built into the electronic throttle body on the intake plenum. You won’t find a separate, external TPS, the sensor and throttle motor are housed together and serviced as one assembly.

Do I need to calibrate anything after cleaning or replacing the throttle body?

Yes. Perform Accelerator Pedal Released Position Learning, Throttle Valve Closed Position Learning, and Idle Air Volume Learning with a scan tool or the correct ignition/pedal procedure. This resets the ECU’s baseline so idle and response are spot on.

Which fault codes point to TPS issues on this car?

Common TPS/throttle body codes include P0121–P0123, P0221–P0223, and P2135 (correlation). If these appear, inspect wiring/connectors, check for throttle bore contamination, perform relearns, and consider ECM updates before replacing the assembly.