Parts for your 2007 Holden Captiva 5-Throttle position sensors

2007 Holden Captiva 5 Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)

Technical documentation confirms the 2007 Holden Captiva 5 uses a throttle position sensor. The Holden Captiva CG (2006–2011) Service Manual under Engine Controls – Electronic Throttle Control, GM Global Service Information (DTC P0120–P0223 groups), and the Opel Antara workshop manual all describe an electronic throttle body with dual, integrated throttle position sensors on petrol models. These sources also note an accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor at the pedal. So, a TPS is absolutely relevant on this model.

On the 2007 Captiva 5, the throttle position sensor lives inside the electronic throttle body. Its job is to report the exact angle of the throttle plate to the engine computer. Paired with the accelerator pedal position sensor, it lets the ECU blend driver demand with engine load, air temp, and other data to deliver smooth take-off, steady cruising, and clean shifting. With drive-by-wire, there’s no cable to tweak—so accurate TPS feedback is crucial for idle quality, fuel economy, and emissions.

Most Captiva 5 throttle bodies use dual TPS tracks for redundancy. If readings don’t agree, the ECU throws fault codes (think P0121–P0123) and can drop the car into limp mode to protect the driveline. That’s when drivers notice hesitation, erratic idle, surging, or poor fuel use.

For servicing, start with the basics:

• Clean the throttle body bore and plate with proper throttle-body cleaner. Don’t force the plate by hand—use gentle sprays and a soft cloth.
• Inspect the connector and wiring for corrosion, chafing, or loose pins. Voltage drops can mimic a bad TPS.
• Check battery health. Low system voltage upsets sensor references and can trigger bogus codes.
• Use a scan tool to view live TP% and correlation with the pedal. Look for smooth, linear change without spikes.

If the sensor itself is faulty, note that on this model the TPS is generally built into the throttle body and not serviced separately. Replacement is usually the complete throttle body assembly, followed by an idle/throttle learn procedure (scan tool or a specified key-on/idle routine). Always fit a new gasket if required, verify there are no vacuum leaks, clear codes, and confirm that TP% and idle speed relearn correctly. Kept clean and electrically sound, the Captiva 5’s TPS setup is reliable and doesn’t need routine replacement—just attention as part of regular intake and electrical checks.

Popular questions about 2007 Holden Captiva 5 throttle-position-sensors

Does the 2007 Captiva 5 actually have a TPS, or is it only a pedal sensor?
Yes, it has both. The accelerator pedal has an APP sensor, and the throttle body itself contains dual TPS tracks to report the throttle plate angle to the ECU. Both signals are cross-checked for safety and drivability.

What are common signs the TPS/throttle body is playing up on a Captiva 5?
Typical giveaways are a check engine light with codes like P0121–P0123, rough or hunting idle, limp-home mode, surging, and delayed throttle response. Sometimes a dirty throttle body causes similar symptoms, so cleaning and testing live data is smart before replacing parts.

Can the TPS be replaced on its own?
On most Captiva 5 setups, the TPS is integrated into the throttle body and isn’t sold separately. The fix is a complete throttle body replacement, then performing an idle/throttle learn so the ECU can recalibrate.