Parts for your 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander-Throttle position sensors

2018 Mitsubishi Outlander throttle position sensor (TPS): what it is, where it lives, and how to look after it

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander does use a throttle position sensor. It’s part of the electronic throttle control (drive‑by‑wire) throttle body and isn’t a separate bolt‑on item. Mitsubishi workshop literature for the GF/GG‑series Outlander (2014–2019) lists a throttle body with a built‑in throttle actuator and dual throttle position sensors (main and sub), and documents related diagnostic trouble codes like P0120–P0123 and P2135 for TPS circuits, plus throttle actuator codes such as P2101 and P2119. Mitsubishi parts catalogues for these models also show the TPS as integral to the throttle body assembly rather than a standalone service part. These technical references confirm the TPS is fitted and relevant on the 2018 Outlander.

On this model, the TPS reports the exact angle of the throttle plate to the engine control module. That signal is used for fuel delivery, ignition timing, idle control, transmission shift strategy, cruise control and stability/traction systems. The throttle body carries two TPS tracks for redundancy, so the ECU can cross‑check signals for safety and accuracy.

There’s no routine replacement interval for the TPS on an Outlander, it’s considered “non‑serviceable” on its own. If the sensor fails, the fix is typically replacing the complete throttle body and performing an idle learn/adaptation with a scan tool. Owners and technicians can help the TPS live a long life by keeping the air filter clean, avoiding pushing the throttle plate open by hand under the bonnet, maintaining good battery voltage, and ensuring connectors at the throttle body aren’t contaminated or moisture‑logged.

• Common signs of TPS/throttle body trouble: hesitant take‑off, erratic idle, unexpected limp mode, surging on light throttle, poor fuel economy, and a check‑engine light with codes like P0120, P0122, P0123 or P2135.
• Service tips: clean light carbon around the throttle plate (off‑car is best), fit a new throttle body gasket if removed, and carry out the idle relearn. A quality scan tool helps verify TPS percentage tracks are smooth and matching.

If a throttle body replacement is needed, reputable OEM‑quality parts are recommended. Because the TPS is integrated, careful installation and the correct relearn procedure are key to restoring smooth behaviour and preventing repeat faults. The accelerator pedal has its own position sensor too, so accurate diagnosis matters before parts are swapped.

Does the 2018 Outlander have a separate TPS I can replace on its own?

No. On this model the throttle position sensors are built into the electronic throttle body. If the TPS is faulty, the usual repair is replacing the complete throttle body and performing an idle learn. The accelerator pedal position sensor is a separate part, but that’s a different component.

What fault codes point to TPS issues on a 2018 Outlander?

Common codes include P0120, P0122 and P0123 (TPS circuit range/performance/low/high) and P2135 (TPS A/B correlation). Throttle actuator related codes such as P2101 and P2119 can also appear. Always verify wiring and connectors and compare both TPS tracks on a scan tool before condemning the throttle body.

Is an idle relearn needed after cleaning or replacing the throttle body?

Yes. After a clean or replacement, the ECU needs to relearn throttle and idle parameters. A scan‑tool guided procedure is ideal, many workshops also perform a warm‑up and stable idle period to complete adaptation. Skipping this can leave the idle high, low, or unstable.