Parts for your 2009 Nissan Serena-Throttle position sensors

2009 Nissan Serena throttle position sensor (TPS): what it does and how to look after it

Based on Nissan’s factory service information for the C25 Serena (EC section: Electronic Throttle Control) and common MR20DE documentation, the 2009 Nissan Serena uses an electronic throttle body with dual throttle position sensors (often called TP1 and TP2) built into the throttle actuator. The sensors aren’t sold separately and aren’t serviceable on their own. Parts catalogues for the C25 list the throttle body as a single assembly with the position sensors integrated. So yes—the TPS is absolutely fitted and relevant on the 2009 Serena.

On this model, the TPS tracks the exact angle of the throttle plate and feeds that to the engine control module. That signal is used to command fuel and ignition, manage the CVT’s load strategy, stabilise idle with the A/C on, and keep cruise control and traction systems behaving nicely. Because the Serena is drive-by-wire, the accelerator pedal has its own position sensor, and the ECM constantly cross-checks pedal input against the TPS for safety and precision.

In everyday servicing, the TPS itself isn’t a routine replacement item. What matters is keeping the throttle body clean and the system correctly learned. Carbon around the throttle plate can skew the sensor readings and upset idle quality. A careful clean with throttle-body-safe cleaner (no forcing the plate by hand) every 20,000–40,000 km works well, especially if most driving is short trips.

After cleaning—or any time the battery has been disconnected for a while—the Serena typically needs a throttle closed-position and idle air volume learn. This can be done with a suitable scan tool or by following the official Nissan procedure. Skipping this step can leave it idling high, hunting, or even dropping into limp mode.

If the TPS fails or the ECM logs correlation faults (common codes include P0120–P0123 or P2135), diagnostics should confirm wiring and grounds first. If the sensor inside the throttle body is faulty, the fix is to replace the complete throttle body assembly and the gasket, then perform the learns. It’s also smart to inspect the accelerator pedal position sensor connector while you’re there, as the system relies on both sensors agreeing.

• Typical symptoms of TPS/throttle body issues: rough or high idle, poor response, cruise not engaging, MIL on, and “limp” behaviour.
• Good maintenance: periodic throttle body cleaning, connector inspection, relearn procedures, and scan-tool checks of TP1/TP2 agreement.

Handled this way, the Serena’s TPS setup is pretty reliable and delivers smooth, predictable throttle feel for the long haul.

FAQs

Does the 2009 Nissan Serena actually have a throttle position sensor?
Yes. The 2009 Serena (C25, MR20DE) uses an electronic throttle body with dual integrated TPS sensors. They work with the accelerator pedal position sensor to give the ECM precise control of the throttle.

Can the TPS be replaced on its own, or is it part of the throttle body?
It’s part of the throttle body and not sold separately. If the TPS fails, the complete throttle body assembly is replaced, followed by the required throttle and idle learn procedures.

Do I need a relearn after cleaning or replacing the throttle body?
Yes. A throttle closed-position and idle air volume learn is needed after cleaning, battery disconnection, or throttle body replacement. Without it, idle quality and response can be off.