Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander-Throttle position sensors

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander throttle position sensors — what they do and how to look after them

On the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander, a throttle position sensor (TPS) is absolutely used and is relevant to how the engine runs. Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Motors service manual for the 2016 model year (Electronic Throttle Control/Engine Control sections), common OBD-II diagnostics for this vehicle (DTCs such as P0120–P0124, P2135), and OEM parts catalogues all show the Outlander’s electronic throttle body contains dual, built-in throttle position sensors alongside the throttle actuator motor. This applies to the 2.4L petrol, 3.0L V6, and the PHEV’s 2.0L petrol engines. The TPS isn’t a standalone bolt-on sensor, it’s integrated into the throttle body assembly.

What does the TPS do? In simple terms, it tells the engine computer exactly how far the throttle plate is open, so fuelling, ignition timing, and idle control can be spot-on. The Outlander runs a “drive-by-wire” setup, so the ECU compares the accelerator pedal position with the dual TPS signals to command smooth, safe throttle behaviour. If those signals don’t make sense, it can drop into limp mode to protect the engine and transmission.

As part of servicing a 2016 Outlander, it’s smart to keep the throttle body clean and the wiring happy. A few easy tips:

• Inspect the throttle body and intake ducting for oil vapour build-up, clean the bore and plate with throttle body cleaner (avoid soaking the electronics).
• Check the electrical connector and loom for corrosion, broken tabs, or rubbed-through insulation.
• Scan for codes like P0120–P0124, P0221, P2135 and look at live data for two matching throttle angle signals that track smoothly with pedal input.

Symptoms of TPS/throttle body trouble can include rough idle, surging, hesitant take-off, poor fuel economy, a check engine light, and the vehicle feeling gutless in limp mode. Because the TPS is part of the throttle body, replacement usually means swapping the whole assembly and fitting a new gasket. After replacement or a thorough clean, a throttle/idle relearn is often required. A workshop scan tool (MUT-III or equivalent) makes this straightforward, though some vehicles will self-learn after a short drive cycle. Don’t adjust the throttle stop screw and don’t pry on the plate—those can upset calibration.

Quality parts and correct torque on mounting bolts go a long way, and keeping the intake system sealed and the air filter fresh helps the TPS and throttle motor live a long, drama-free life.

FAQs

Does a 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander have a throttle position sensor?
Yes. The 2016 Outlander uses an electronic throttle body with dual built-in throttle position sensors. It isn’t a separate external sensor, it’s integrated with the throttle body and actuator.

What are common signs the TPS is failing on a 2016 Outlander?
Typical signs include a check engine light with codes like P0120–P0124 or P2135, rough or high idle, stalling, flat spots on acceleration, poor fuel economy, and sometimes limp-home mode. Live data that shows erratic or mismatched throttle angles is another giveaway.

Can the TPS be replaced separately on this model?
Generally, no. On the 2016 Outlander the TPS is part of the throttle body assembly, so the usual repair is to replace the complete throttle body and then carry out a throttle/idle relearn with a scan tool.