Parts for your 2013 Mazda Cx-5-Throttle position sensors

2013 Mazda CX-5 throttle position sensor (TPS)

Based on the Mazda CX-5 2013 Workshop Manual and wiring diagrams for SKYACTIV-G 2.0 petrol and SKYACTIV-D 2.2 diesel engines, the vehicle uses electronic throttle control with a throttle body that contains dual throttle position sensors (TPS), alongside an accelerator pedal position sensor. Diagnostic coverage in Mazda’s OBD fault lists (e.g., P0121/P0122/P0123, P2135) also confirms TPS monitoring on this model. So yes—on a 2013 Mazda CX-5 the TPS is fitted, relevant, and critical to normal operation.

The TPS on a 2013 CX-5 tells the engine control module exactly how far the throttle plate is open. In a drive-by-wire setup, the ECU compares pedal input with the two internal TPS signals in the throttle body, then manages fuel, spark, idle speed, cruise control and even transmission shift timing. If the two TPS signals don’t agree, it’ll throw a code and often drop into limp mode to keep things safe.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for the TPS on these Mazdas, and in most cases the sensors are integrated into the throttle body and aren’t serviced separately. Owners should think of it as a “lifetime” component that’s checked when symptoms show up or when a scan reveals a related fault code. Common signs of trouble include rough idle, hunting revs, hesitation off the line, poor fuel economy, cruise control cutting out, or the traction/DSC and check engine lights popping up together.

Good servicing habits help. Keep the intake system airtight, ensure the throttle body and its connector stay clean and dry, and if doing a throttle body clean, use proper throttle cleaner and avoid soaking the sensor area. After any throttle body replacement—or sometimes after a heavy clean—it’s best practice to carry out a throttle/idle relearn. A scan tool procedure is ideal, though an ignition-on/idle relearn can work on some vehicles. If replacement is needed, it usually means swapping the complete throttle body assembly, fitting a new gasket, torquing the bolts evenly, reconnecting the harness, and performing the relearn. Expect some labour time for access (air ducting under the bonnet can be snug), and always clear codes and verify live data for the two TPS tracks to confirm a healthy match.

• Typical related DTCs: P0121, P0122, P0123, P2135
• Inspection trigger points: irregular idle, limp mode, mismatched TPS voltages in live data, or failed throttle relearn

Popular questions

Does the 2013 Mazda CX-5 actually have a throttle position sensor?
Yes. The 2013 CX-5 uses an electronic throttle body with dual built-in TPS sensors. Both the petrol and diesel variants monitor throttle angle for engine management and safety redundancy.

Can the TPS be replaced on its own, or is it part of the throttle body?
On most 2013 CX-5s, the TPS is integrated into the throttle body and isn’t sold separately. If the sensor fails or goes out of correlation, the fix is typically a complete throttle body replacement followed by a relearn process.

What are common symptoms of a failing TPS on a CX-5?
Owners might notice unstable idle, hesitation, cruise dropping out, or the car going into limp mode. A scan tool often shows codes like P0121 or P2135 and may reveal mismatched readings between the two TPS tracks.