Parts for your 2015 Nissan Pathfinder-Throttle position sensors

2015 Nissan Pathfinder throttle position sensor: what it does and how to look after it

It’s relevant and it’s fitted. The 2015 Nissan Pathfinder (R52, VQ35DE) uses an electronic throttle control system, not a cable. As documented in the Nissan Factory Service Manual for the R52 (EC – Throttle Control System), the throttle body houses two throttle position sensors (TPS1 and TPS2) alongside the throttle control motor. The FSM’s DTC list (including P0121, P0122, P0123, P2135) confirms the ECM monitors these sensors. Mainstream workshop information (Alldata/Autodata) and general repair manuals for 2013–2019 Pathfinders also note the TPS is integral to the throttle body and not serviced separately.

On this model, the throttle position sensors report the exact angle of the throttle plate so the engine computer can manage airflow, fuel delivery and ignition timing. They work in tandem with the accelerator pedal position sensors, smoothing take‑off, stabilising idle, and helping the CVT behave predictably in traffic and under load on Kiwi and Aussie roads alike. If the ECM sees the two TPS signals disagree, it can throw the check‑engine light and drop the vehicle into limp mode to protect the powertrain.

Because the TPS is built into the throttle body, replacement means swapping the whole throttle body assembly. Best practice during servicing is:

• Inspect and clean the throttle bore every 60,000–100,000 km if idle is rough, the revs hang, or there’s sluggish response.
• Use throttle‑body‑safe cleaner, don’t flood the electronics and don’t force the butterfly by hand.
• Check the connector for corrosion or loose pins and the intake duct for splits.
• If replacing the throttle body, fit a new gasket, reconnect carefully, and perform the relearn procedures.

After cleaning or replacement, a throttle relearn is essential. The Pathfinder needs the throttle valve closed‑position learn and idle air volume learn (both outlined in the Nissan FSM). This can be done with a capable scan tool or by the specified timed pedal/ignition sequence. Skipping this step often leads to high or unstable idle and a return visit under the bonnet.

Common signs the TPS/throttle body needs attention include erratic idle, hesitation on tip‑in, poor fuel economy, cruise control dropping out, a glowing MIL, or CVT shift weirdness at low speeds. If those symptoms appear alongside TPS‑related DTCs, testing and, if needed, throttle body replacement is the reliable fix.

FAQs

Where is the throttle position sensor on a 2015 Pathfinder?
The TPS is integrated into the electronic throttle body on the front of the intake manifold. Look under the engine cover: the throttle body has an electrical connector and is joined to the intake duct. There isn’t a separate, bolt‑on TPS for this model.

Do you need a relearn after cleaning or replacing the throttle body?
Yes. Perform the throttle valve closed‑position learn and idle air volume learn. A scan tool makes it straightforward, but the manual timed procedure from the Nissan FSM also works if followed precisely. Without relearn, expect high idle or hunting.

Can the TPS be replaced on its own?
No. The TPS is not serviceable separately, it’s part of the throttle body assembly. If diagnostics confirm a TPS fault (e.g., P0121/P2135 correlation), replace the throttle body and carry out the relearn procedures.