Parts for your 2007 Toyota Highlander-Throttle position sensors

2007 Toyota Highlander throttle position sensors: what they do and how to look after them

Yes — the 2007 Toyota Highlander (also known as Kluger in Australia and New Zealand) uses a throttle position sensor. Technical references including Toyota’s ETCS‑i (Electronic Throttle Control System) training materials, the 2007 Highlander repair manual for the 2AZ‑FE (2.4L) and 3MZ‑FE (3.3L) engines, and the factory Electrical Wiring Diagram confirm the throttle body contains dual throttle position sensors. These provide VTA1/VTA2 signals to the ECM and are monitored by OBD‑II fault codes such as P0120–P0124 and P2135. Unlike older cable-throttle setups with a separate, bolt‑on TPS, the 2007 Highlander’s TPS is integrated into the electronic throttle body, while the accelerator pedal has its own position sensor.

On this model, the throttle position sensors tell the engine computer exactly where the throttle plate is, so the car can balance power, emissions and smooth driveability. Because it’s a drive‑by‑wire system, accuracy and redundancy are built in, two sensor tracks cross‑check each other, which is why the car can drop into limp mode if they don’t agree.

There’s no scheduled replacement for the TPS on a 2007 Highlander, but it’s smart to give the system a bit of love during routine servicing:

• Clean the throttle body carefully with intake-safe cleaner (bonnet up, battery disconnected), avoiding soaking the electronics. Don’t force the butterfly by hand.
• Inspect the TPS/throttle body connector and loom for corrosion, broken clips or rubbed-through insulation.
• Use a scan tool to check live data for smooth, linear throttle angle and that both TPS tracks match. Look for stored or pending DTCs like P0121 or P2135.
• After battery disconnection or throttle body work, perform an idle relearn as per service info so it idles nicely.

If faults persist, Toyota’s service literature typically has the TPS as part of the throttle body assembly. That means replacement usually involves swapping the complete throttle body rather than just the sensor. When fitting a new unit, use a fresh gasket, torque the fasteners evenly, and double‑check for air leaks. It’s worth using OEM‑quality parts, as the ECM relies on precise feedback from both TPS circuits. After installation, clear codes, carry out the relearn, and verify with a road test and scan data.

Typical symptoms of a crook TPS on a 2007 Highlander include erratic idle, hesitation, poor economy, sudden loss of power, cruise control dropping out, or the MIL on. Sorting it early prevents limp-home dramas and keeps the Kluger/Highlander feeling crisp underfoot.

Does a 2007 Toyota Highlander have a throttle position sensor?

It does. The 2007 Highlander’s throttle position sensors are built into the electronic throttle body as part of Toyota’s ETCS‑i. They’re not a separate, bolt-on switch like older cable-throttle designs.

What are the signs the TPS is failing on a 2007 Highlander?

Common clues are erratic idle, hesitation, sudden low-power limp mode, poor fuel use, and the check engine light. Scan tool data may show mismatched TPS tracks and codes such as P0121 or P2135. If cleaning and wiring checks don’t help, the throttle body assembly may need replacement.

Can the TPS be replaced separately, or does the whole throttle body need changing?

On most 2007 Highlanders, the TPS is integral to the throttle body. The factory service approach is to replace the complete throttle body. Aftermarket standalone sensors exist in some markets, but correct fit, calibration and reliability can vary. If the throttle body is replaced, perform an idle relearn and verify operation with a scan tool.