Parts for your 2013 Nissan Serena-Throttle position sensors

2013 Nissan Serena throttle position sensor (TPS)

Technical sources confirm the 2013 Nissan Serena (C26 series, MR20DE/S-HYBRID) uses electronic throttle control with a throttle body that has an integrated, dual-channel throttle position sensor. The Nissan Serena C26 Factory Service Manual, Engine Control (EC) section, details a built-in “Throttle Control Motor” and “Throttle Position Sensor 1/2,” and lists related DTCs such as P0121–P0123, P0221–P0223 and P2135. Hitachi/Keihin electronic throttle body specifications used by late-model Nissans also describe redundant TPS elements inside the throttle unit. So a TPS is present and directly relevant to this vehicle.

On the 2013 Serena, the TPS tells the engine control module exactly where the throttle plate sits, letting the ECU manage idle, acceleration, cruise and emissions with smooth, drive-by-wire precision. It works in tandem with the accelerator pedal position sensor, the pedal reports driver demand, while the TPS confirms the actual throttle angle. Because the sensors are integral to the throttle body, faults often mean servicing or replacing the whole assembly rather than the TPS on its own.

Typical signs that the TPS/throttle body needs attention include:

• Erratic idle, stalling at lights, or sluggish take-off
• Surging on light throttle or poor fuel economy
• “Limp” mode and a lit check-engine lamp
• Stored fault codes like P0120–P0124 or P2135

As part of routine servicing, a careful throttle body clean helps. Use an approved throttle cleaner, support the plate gently (don’t force it), and avoid soaking electronics. After cleaning or replacement, a throttle/idle relearn is required so the ECU knows the new closed angle. Nissan’s procedure is covered in the Serena C26 EC section (Throttle Valve Closed Position Learning and Idle Air Volume Learning) and can be performed with CONSULT-III plus or a capable scan tool, some workshops also use the timed pedal sequence.

When replacement is needed, technicians generally fit a quality new throttle body with gasket, check for vacuum leaks, clear DTCs, and complete the relearn. Battery voltage and clean grounds are important, low system voltage can trigger false throttle codes. Owners who keep fresh air filters in place and have the throttle body inspected and relearned when symptoms appear usually enjoy crisp throttle response and stable idle for the long haul.

Popular questions about the 2013 Nissan Serena TPS

Does the Serena’s TPS come separately from the throttle body?
The TPS is built into the electronic throttle body on this model as dual sensors, so it’s typically serviced as a complete throttle body assembly. That design improves reliability and ensures the ECU sees two matching signals for safety.

Is a relearn needed after cleaning or replacing the throttle body?
Yes. After any cleaning that alters the throttle plate position—or after replacement—the ECU needs a throttle/idle relearn. Workshops use CONSULT-III plus or a capable scan tool to run Throttle Closed Position and Idle Air Volume Learning so idle and response behave properly.

What are common TPS-related fault codes on the Serena?
Common codes include P0121–P0123 (TPS circuit range/performance), P0221–P0223 (secondary TPS signals) and P2135 (correlation). If any appear with idle issues or limp mode, technicians will inspect wiring, clean the throttle body, test live data and, if needed, replace the assembly and perform a relearn.