Parts for your 2013 Isuzu D-max-Throttle position sensors

2013 Isuzu D‑MAX throttle position sensors: what they do and how to look after them

For the 2013 Isuzu D‑MAX (RT series, 4JJ1/4JK1 common‑rail diesels), throttle‑position sensors are used. The engine employs an electronically driven intake throttle valve (sometimes called an anti‑shudder or throttle flap) to manage EGR flow and smooth shutdown. That throttle body contains dual position sensors the ECU monitors, and the vehicle also uses dual‑track accelerator pedal position sensors. This is documented in the Isuzu D‑MAX 2012–2016 Workshop Manual under Engine Control, Throttle Valve Control System and DTCs (e.g., P0120 range, P2101/P2112 throttle actuator/position faults), and mirrored in the Holden Colorado RG service literature for the same 4JJ1 architecture. Bosch EDC17 system notes for the 4JJ1 further describe the intake throttle with integrated position sensors. These technical sources confirm the TPS is relevant and fitted to the 2013 D‑MAX.

The throttle‑position sensors on a 2013 D‑MAX tell the ECU exactly where the intake throttle flap is, so it can blend EGR cleanly, reduce intake shudder on shutdown, and keep emissions in check. Unlike a petrol, the diesel’s throttle plate isn’t for power control, it’s there for finesse. Because the sensors live inside the electronic throttle body, the ECU cross‑checks their tracks and compares them with the accelerator pedal sensors to catch faults early and prevent runaway issues.

When the TPS goes out of whack, the ute may light the MIL, drop into limp mode, surge at cruise, shut down harshly, or puff more soot than usual. Common codes include P0120–P0124 (throttle/pedal position circuit) and P2101/P2112/P2119 (throttle actuator/position performance). Before throwing parts at it, it’s smart to scan it properly, check battery health (low volts can upset the actuator), and inspect the throttle body connector and loom for corrosion or rubbed‑through sections under the bonnet.

On this model, the TPS is typically part of the throttle body and not serviced separately. If cleaning is all that’s needed, remove the intake ducting and carefully de‑soot the bore with MAF‑safe cleaner without forcing the plate by hand. Excess EGR soot and oil mist can gum things up, so doing this around major services (say every 40,000–60,000 km, especially if it does lots of short trips) is worthwhile. If replacement is required, fit a quality throttle body with a new gasket, torque the fasteners evenly, and perform the throttle position/idle learn with a capable scan tool, simply disconnecting the battery won’t reliably relearn. It’s also worth reminding owners that some workshops call the accelerator pedal sensor a “TPS”, but on the D‑MAX the actual throttle plate sensors live on the throttle body. Both sets of sensors matter, so a proper diagnostic approach saves time and coin.

• Technical references: Isuzu D‑MAX 2012–2016 Workshop Manual (Engine Control, Throttle Valve Control System, DTC P0120/P2101 series), Holden Colorado RG Workshop Manual (Engine Controls/ETC), Bosch EDC17 4JJ1 system overview.

Popular questions

Does a 2013 Isuzu D‑MAX have a throttle position sensor?
Yes. The diesel uses an electronic throttle body with built‑in dual position sensors, plus dual accelerator pedal position sensors. The ECU monitors both for accuracy and correlation.

What are the signs the TPS is playing up on a 2013 D‑MAX?
Look for a check‑engine light, limp mode, surging at light throttle, rough or shuddery shutdown, increased smoke, and codes like P0120–P0124 or P2101/P2112. Wiring or soot‑sticking can mimic a failed sensor, so testing matters.

Can the TPS be replaced separately from the throttle body?
On most 2013 D‑MAX models the TPS is integrated into the throttle body and isn’t a separate service item. If the sensor is faulty, the usual fix is replacing the throttle body and carrying out a throttle learn with a scan tool.