Parts for your 2006 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Throttle position sensors

2006 Toyota Vitz/Yaris Throttle Position Sensors (TPS)

Based on Toyota’s own technical literature, the 2006 Toyota Vitz/Yaris (XP90 series – engines 1KR‑FE, 2SZ‑FE and 1NZ‑FE) is fitted with throttle position sensors. In this model the TPS is integrated into the electronic throttle body as dual position sensors (often referenced as VTA1/VTA2) that work with the Electronic Throttle Control system (ETCS‑i). This is documented in the Toyota New Car Features (NCF) for these engines, the Engine Control System (SFI) System Description in the Toyota Repair Manual, and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for KSP90/SCP90/NCP91 which lists the TPS as part of the “Body Assy, Throttle” (non‑separable). Diagnostic trouble codes shown in the Repair Manual (e.g., P0120–P0124, P0220–P0224, P2135) further confirm the presence and role of the TPS on this vehicle.

On a 2006 Vitz/Yaris, the throttle position sensors tell the engine ECU exactly how far the throttle plate is open. Working alongside the accelerator pedal position sensor, they let the ECU manage fuel, ignition timing, idle control and traction/stability features. Because it’s an ETCS‑i setup, Toyota uses two TPS tracks inside the throttle body for redundancy and safety, if the two signals don’t agree, the system can go into limp mode to protect the engine and driver.

Servicing is straightforward but a little different from older cable‑throttle cars. The TPS isn’t a separate bolt‑on part, it’s built into the throttle body and isn’t meant to be replaced on its own. If the sensor fails electrically, the normal fix is to replace the entire throttle body assembly. Before going that far, it’s worth checking the basics:

• Clean the throttle bore and blade with throttle‑body cleaner every 20,000–40,000 kilometres, especially if the car does lots of short trips. Don’t force the blade open by hand or soak the motor/sensor cover.
• Inspect the connector and loom for oil, moisture or broken pins. Poor connections can mimic a failed TPS.
• Scan live data: look for smooth, steady throttle angle change and consistent correlation between the two TPS signals. Codes like P0121, P0222 or P2135 point to TPS circuit issues.

After cleaning or replacing the throttle body, let the ECU relearn its idle. Many scan tools (including Toyota Techstream) offer an ETCS initialisation. Without a scan tool, a warm‑up idle period and a short drive cycle often allows the ECU to adapt. If replacement is required, use a quality OEM‑spec throttle body, fit a new gasket, torque the fasteners correctly, clear any fault codes, perform the idle/throttle relearn and verify smooth operation on a road test.

Technical references consulted: Toyota New Car Features (ETCS‑i: 1KR‑FE/1NZ‑FE), Toyota Repair Manual – Engine Control (SFI) System Description and Diagnostics for XP90, Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for KSP90/SCP90/NCP91 (Throttle Body assembly with integrated TPS).

Popular questions

Does a 2006 Vitz/Yaris have a separate throttle position sensor I can replace?
Not typically. On this model the TPS is integrated into the electronic throttle body and isn’t serviced separately by Toyota. If the TPS fails electrically, the standard repair is to replace the complete throttle body assembly. Some aftermarket options claim separate sensors, but fitment and calibration can be hit‑and‑miss compared with a full assembly.

What signs point to a failing TPS on a 2006 Vitz/Yaris?
Common clues include a hunting or high idle, flat spots on take‑off, poor fuel economy, and the car dropping into limp mode. The check engine light may be on with codes like P0121, P0222, or P2135. Always rule out a dirty throttle body or wiring damage before condemning the sensor.

Will cleaning the throttle body fix TPS fault codes?
Cleaning can help if the issue is sticking of the throttle plate or gunk affecting idle airflow. It won’t fix an internal electrical fault in the TPS itself. After cleaning, perform an idle/throttle relearn and clear codes, if the same TPS circuit codes return, further testing of the wiring and throttle body assembly is warranted.