Parts for your 2006 Toyota Highlander-Throttle position sensors

2006 Toyota Highlander throttle position sensor: what it is, what it does, and how to look after it

Technical sources confirm the 2006 Toyota Highlander does use a throttle position sensor (TPS). The Toyota Repair Manual (TIS) for the 2006 Highlander (2AZ‑FE 2.4L and 3MZ‑FE 3.3L, including Hybrid) describes Electronic Throttle Control (ETCS‑i) with a throttle body that houses a built‑in throttle position sensor. The official diagnostic section lists DTCs P0120–P0124 and related codes for the TPS/accelerator position circuits on this model. Toyota’s genuine parts catalogue for this year also notes the TPS is integrated into the throttle body assembly and is not normally supplied as a separate, adjustable part.

On a 2006 Highlander, the TPS is part of the drive‑by‑wire throttle body. Its job is to tell the engine control module the exact angle of the throttle plate so the ECU can match air, fuel and ignition, smooth out gear changes, and keep cruise control and stability systems happy. It works alongside the accelerator pedal position sensor, giving the ECU two clean data streams for safety and precision.

Because it’s integrated, the TPS isn’t a regular tune‑up item and there’s no adjustment procedure. As part of routine servicing, the smart move is to inspect the throttle body and connector, check live data (VTA signals) on a scan tool, and clean the throttle bore and plate with a throttle‑safe cleaner. Keep it light—don’t drown the electronics and avoid forcing the plate open against the motor.

If there’s a TPS fault—think check‑engine light with codes like P0120/P0121, erratic idle, surging, limp mode, poor fuel economy—the fix is typically to replace the complete throttle body assembly with quality OEM‑spec parts. After fitting, clear codes and let the ECU relearn idle. Warm the engine, let it idle a few minutes with A/C off, then a few minutes with A/C on, and take a short drive so the ECU can settle trims. No manual TPS adjustment is required or possible.

Basic checks before replacement include verifying battery health and grounds, inspecting the throttle connector for corrosion, and confirming wiring continuity. For most Highlanders doing mixed city and open‑road work in Aus or NZ, a throttle body inspection and light clean every 60,000–80,000 km keeps things tidy and helps prevent sticky‑throttle complaints.

• Common signs of trouble: rough or high idle, stalling when coming to a stop, hesitant take‑off, sudden loss of power, and DTCs P0120–P0124.
• Pro tip: Avoid cheap sensor-only fixes—on this model the TPS is built in, and mismatched parts can cause more grief than they solve.

FAQs

Does a 2006 Toyota Highlander have a throttle position sensor?
Yes. The 2006 Highlander uses an electronic throttle body with a built‑in TPS under Toyota’s ETCS‑i system. It works with the accelerator pedal sensors to give the ECU accurate throttle angle data.

Can the TPS be replaced separately from the throttle body?
Generally, no. For this model year Toyota supplies the TPS as part of the throttle body assembly. While some aftermarket options claim a separate sensor, proper fit, reliability and calibration are best achieved by replacing the complete throttle body.

What are the usual symptoms or fault codes of a failing TPS on this model?
Drivers may notice erratic idle, hesitation, limp mode, or poor fuel use. Common codes include P0120–P0124 for TPS/APP circuits. A scan with live data helps confirm before committing to parts.