Parts for your 2006 Toyota Camry-Throttle position sensors

2006 Toyota Camry throttle-position-sensors: what they do and how to look after them

Yes, the 2006 Toyota Camry uses throttle-position-sensors. Toyota’s own service information (Toyota TIS), the 2002–2006 Camry Repair Manual, and the Engine Control System documentation for the 2AZ‑FE (and V6 variants) show the car runs ETCS‑i (electronic throttle). In this setup, dual throttle-position-sensors are built into the throttle body to report the throttle plate angle, and there’s also a dual-track accelerator pedal position sensor. On most 2006 Camry models, the TPS is part of the throttle body assembly rather than a separate bolt-on piece.

On a 2006 Camry, the throttle-position-sensors tell the engine computer exactly where the throttle plate sits, so fuel and spark can be managed smoothly. Because the car is drive‑by‑wire, the ECU compares the pedal position to the throttle position and constantly tweaks a small electric motor to open or close the plate. That’s how it keeps idle tidy, throttle response crisp, and cruise control steady.

Owners thinking about throttle-position-sensors replacement should know that, for this model, the sensors are integrated into the throttle body. If the TPS is faulty, the common fix is replacing the throttle body assembly. There’s no mechanical adjustment—just bolt it on with a fresh gasket, reconnect, and perform an idle/ETCS learn procedure so the ECU can recalibrate. A scan tool makes this fuss‑free, but the car will usually relearn after a short drive cycle if battery power has been reset.

Routine servicing tips to keep things sweet:

• Clean the throttle body every 60,000–80,000 km using a throttle‑body safe cleaner (avoid harsh solvents that can damage the coating). Don’t force the plate by hand.
• Check for vacuum leaks and brittle hoses under the bonnet—unmetered air can mimic TPS faults.
• Use a scan tool to look at throttle angle and pedal angle, the two should track smoothly with no dropouts.
• If the MIL pops on with codes like P0121, P0122, P0123, P0222 or P2135, inspect wiring/connectors first, then consider throttle body replacement.

Signs the throttle-position-sensors are playing up include erratic idle, hesitation off the line, sudden loss of power or “limp” mode, cruise control dropping out, and a stubborn fuel economy change. When replacement is needed, quality OEM or reputable brand throttle bodies tend to save headaches. After fitting, let the engine reach operating temp and allow a few minutes of stable idle so the system can relearn. That way, the Camry’s smooth drivability is back on song for the next long Kiwi or Aussie commute.

Popular questions

Does a 2006 Camry have a separate TPS I can replace on its own?
Most 2006 Camry variants use a throttle body with the throttle-position-sensors built in. In practice, that means replacing the entire throttle body if the sensor fails. Always confirm by checking the part number against the VIN.

What are the classic symptoms of a failing TPS on this model?
Owners often notice a fluctuating idle, flat spots on acceleration, cruise control cutting out, and the Check Engine light. Diagnostic trouble codes like P0121 or P2135 are common. A quick look at live data under the bonnet with a scan tool usually confirms it.

Do I need to perform a relearn after throttle body work?
Yes. After cleaning or replacement, an idle/ETCS relearn helps the ECU re‑establish throttle plate positions. With a scan tool it’s straightforward, otherwise, a short drive cycle with a few minutes of stable idle generally does the trick.