Parts for your 2013 Nissan Pulsar-Throttle position sensors

2013 Nissan Pulsar throttle-position-sensor (TPS): what it does and how to look after it

Yes, the 2013 Nissan Pulsar does use a throttle-position-sensor. Nissan’s Electronic Service Manual (EC section for MRA8DE/MR18DE/MR16DDT engines) specifies an electronic throttle control system where the TPS is built into the throttle body (electric throttle control actuator). Industry references like Bosch’s electronic throttle control documentation and common service data (e.g., Autodata/Haynes) confirm that late-model Nissans use an internal, dual-track TPS paired with an accelerator pedal position sensor. So a TPS is absolutely relevant on this model—it's just not a separate, adjustable sensor like on older cars.

On the 2013 Pulsar, the throttle-position-sensor tells the engine computer exactly how far the throttle plate is open, so the ECU can match fuel, spark, and idle control to the driver’s right foot. Because the car is drive-by-wire, this feedback is critical for smooth take-offs, steady cruising, and clean gear shifts. If the TPS signal is off, the car can stumble, surge, or drop into limp mode, and it’ll likely light the check engine lamp with codes like P0120–P0124 or P2135.

Servicing is straightforward: the TPS is integrated into the throttle body, so if it fails, the fix is typically to replace the complete throttle body assembly. It’s not designed to be replaced or adjusted separately. After fitting a new throttle body, a throttle/idle relearn (often called Idle Air Volume Learning) is needed using a scan tool or a precise pedal procedure, so the ECU knows the correct closed and open angles. Skipping relearn can cause a high or hunting idle.

Good maintenance helps the TPS live a long life:

• Keep the throttle body clean at regular service intervals (every 40–60,000 km is a good rule of thumb). Use throttle-body-safe cleaner and avoid soaking the sensor area.
• Maintain a healthy battery and charging system—stable voltage keeps sensor signals tidy.
• If you disconnect the battery or clean the throttle, perform a throttle relearn to restore smooth idle behaviour.

Common warning signs worth a look include erratic idle, hesitation on tip-in, poor fuel economy, and the MIL on with the codes mentioned above. A quick scan of live data will show if throttle angle and pedal angle track together. If they don’t, the throttle body (TPS) may be the culprit.

Popular questions

Where is the TPS on a 2013 Nissan Pulsar?
It’s built into the electronic throttle body, mounted on the intake near the air duct. There’s no separate external sensor, the throttle body houses the motor and dual-track position sensor assembly.

Can the TPS be replaced on its own?
Not on this model. The TPS isn’t serviceable separately—if the sensor fails or goes out of range, the complete throttle body is replaced, followed by a throttle/idle relearn.

Do I need a relearn after replacing or cleaning the throttle body?
Yes. A throttle/idle volume learn ensures the ECU recognises the true closed and open throttle positions. Without it, idle can be high or unstable, and drivability may suffer.