Parts for your 2014 Toyota Crown-Throttle position sensors

2014 Toyota Crown throttle position sensors (TPS): what they do and how to look after them

Based on Toyota technical literature for the S210-series Crown (2012–2018), the 2014 Toyota Crown does use throttle position sensors. The Toyota Repair Manual and Electrical Wiring Diagram describe the ETCS-i (Electronic Throttle Control System–intelligent) setup, where the throttle body with motor assembly includes dual throttle position sensor circuits (often labelled VTA1/VTA2) that feed the ECM. Relevant diagnostic trouble codes in the manual include P0120–P0124, P0222, P2135 and related “Throttle/Pedal Position” faults, confirming a TPS is fitted. This architecture applies to the Crown Hybrid with the 2AR-FSE, and to V6 petrol variants such as the 4GR-FSE and 2GR-FSE.

On the 2014 Crown, the throttle position sensor’s job is to report the actual angle of the throttle plate to the engine computer. In a drive-by-wire Toyota, the ECM compares driver demand (from the accelerator pedal sensors) with real throttle angle (from the TPS) to meter fuel and spark, manage idle speed, coordinate gearbox shift strategy, and on hybrids, smoothly start/stop the engine. Dual TPS signals provide redundancy, so if one reading goes walkabout the ECM can fall back or trigger limp mode to protect the engine.

The TPS is integrated into the throttle body assembly and isn’t serviced separately. During regular servicing, smart workshops will:

• Inspect the throttle body and intake ducting for oil vapour build-up and clean the bore and plate carefully with throttle body cleaner (avoiding soaking the sensor area).
• Check the electrical connector and harness for corrosion, moisture ingress or a loose fit under the bonnet.
• Scan for stored DTCs such as P0120, P0122, P2135, even if the MIL isn’t lit, and review live data for VTA1/VTA2 agreement.

Common warning signs include erratic idle, hunting revs, sluggish take-off, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light. If the sensor circuits fail or disagree, replacement of the complete throttle body with motor assembly is the correct fix. A fresh gasket should be used, coolant lines (where fitted) managed cleanly, and the assembly torqued to spec.

After replacement or a flat battery, an ETCS-i learning/reset is recommended. Toyota procedures typically involve clearing ECM learned values with a scan tool, then allowing the engine to reach operating temperature and idle without loads so the computer relearns the throttle angle and idle control. Done right, the Crown idles smoothly and responds crisply, which drivers across Australia and New Zealand will appreciate on city runs and open-road touring alike.

Popular questions

Does the 2014 Toyota Crown actually have a TPS, or only an accelerator pedal sensor?

It has both. The accelerator pedal has its own position sensors for driver demand, and the throttle body contains dual throttle position sensors that confirm the real throttle angle to the ECM. This dual-sensor layout is detailed in Toyota’s ETCS-i documentation for the S210 Crown.

Can the TPS be replaced on its own on a 2014 Crown?

No. Toyota integrates the TPS into the throttle body with motor assembly. If the TPS is faulty or out of spec, the prescribed repair is to replace the complete throttle body assembly and perform throttle/idle relearn.

Does a throttle body or battery disconnect require calibration?

Yes. After throttle body replacement or power loss, the ECM should relearn throttle and idle control. A scan tool reset followed by a warm idle period helps stabilise idle speed and throttle response. Without this, the engine may idle high, stumble, or feel doughy on tip-in.