Parts for your 2012 Nissan Serena-Throttle position sensors

2012 Nissan Serena throttle position sensor (TPS): what it does and how to look after it

Based on Nissan’s C26 Serena Electronic Service Manual (EC section: Electronic Throttle Control System) and Nissan parts catalogues for the MR20DE/HR12DDR engines, the 2012 Nissan Serena is fitted with an electronic throttle body that includes twin throttle position sensors (TPS) built into the throttle control actuator. It also uses accelerator pedal position (APP) sensors at the pedal. So yes—this vehicle does use TPS, and they’re integral to the throttle body assembly rather than a separate bolt-on sensor.

The TPS tell the engine control module exactly how far the throttle plate is open. That data, paired with the pedal sensors and airflow/fuel info, lets the Serena’s ECM manage idle stability, acceleration response, emissions, and that smooth CVT take-up Kiwis and Aussies expect in daily traffic. If the TPS signals disagree or drift, the Serena can drop into limp mode, idle rough, or light the MIL with codes like P0120–P0124 or P2135 (as defined in Nissan’s DTC tables).

While the TPS aren’t a routine replacement item, they benefit from sensible servicing:

• Periodically inspect the throttle body and intake ducting for dust and oil vapour build-up, clean the throttle bore and plate lightly with throttle-safe cleaner and a lint-free cloth. Don’t flood the motor housing or force the plate by hand.
• Check the 6‑pin throttle connector and harness for pin fit, corrosion, or chafe points—poor connections can mimic a failing sensor.
• If faults persist, replacement typically means swapping the complete throttle body assembly with a new gasket. Follow Nissan repair info for fastener tightening and do not overtighten.
• After cleaning or replacement, perform the Nissan learn procedures: Throttle Valve Closed Position Learning, Accelerator Pedal Released Position Learning, and Idle Air Volume Learning. This is most reliable with CONSULT-III Plus, although the manual pedal/ignition method can work if done exactly as specified in the ESM.

Techs should clear codes, verify live data agreement between TPS 1/2 and APP 1/2, and confirm a stable warm idle and clean throttle response under the bonnet. If the vehicle still hesitates or hunts, dig deeper into vacuum leaks, PCV function, or ECM grounds before condemning new parts.

Popular questions

Does the 2012 Serena have a separate TPS or is it part of the throttle body?
On the 2012 C26 Serena, the TPS is integrated into the electronic throttle body alongside the throttle control motor. The accelerator pedal uses its own APP sensors. If the TPS fails, the usual fix is replacing the whole throttle body assembly.

Can the TPS be calibrated without a scan tool?
It’s possible to carry out the pedal/ignition “learn” steps (closed throttle, pedal released, and idle air volume learning) without a scan tool, but timing is fussy. Using Nissan CONSULT-III Plus is recommended for consistent results after cleaning or replacement.

What fault codes point to TPS issues on a Serena?
Codes such as P0120–P0124 and P2135 can indicate throttle position signal errors. Always check wiring, connectors, battery voltage and grounds, and compare TPS 1/2 and APP 1/2 signals in live data before replacing the throttle body.