Parts for your 2021 Toyota Land cruiser-Throttle position sensors

Throttle position sensors on the 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser

Based on Toyota factory literature, the 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser does use throttle position sensors. Toyota’s ETCS‑i (Electronic Throttle Control System – intelligent) detailed in Toyota Technical Training and the 200 Series Repair Manual (for the 1VD‑FTV diesel and petrol V8 platforms) specifies dual throttle position sensor circuits (often labelled VTA1/VTA2) built into the throttle body or intake air control valve, along with an accelerator pedal position sensor. The repair manuals describe these sensors as integral to the throttle body assembly, not serviced separately.

On the 2021 Land Cruiser, the throttle position sensor (TPS) tells the engine control module exactly where the throttle plate is. It’s a key piece of the drive‑by‑wire setup, keeping throttle response smooth, managing idle speed, coordinating with cruise control and the auto transmission, and providing redundancy by using two matching signals. On diesel 1VD models, the throttle valve (often called the intake air control valve) also helps EGR flow and smooth shut‑down, and its position is tracked by the built‑in TPS.

Because Toyota integrates the TPS into the throttle body/valve unit, it’s not a routine service item and isn’t replaced on a schedule. Instead, it’s inspected and tested if drivability issues or fault codes pop up. Common symptoms include a check engine light, limp‑home behaviour, lazy throttle, hunting idle, or DTCs like P0120–P0124, P0220–P0222, P2135, and related ETCS‑i plausibility codes.

If replacement is needed, the fix is to swap the throttle body (petrol) or intake air control valve (diesel) as an assembly. Best practice under the bonnet includes:

• Confirming wiring integrity at the throttle connector, look for dust, oil wicking, or moisture.
• Cleaning the throttle bore gently (no forcing the plate by hand) and fitting a new gasket on reassembly.
• Performing an idle/throttle relearn with a capable scan tool after clearing codes, some ECUs relearn after a battery disconnect and a warm idle drive cycle.
• Checking battery health, low system voltage can trigger ETCS‑i faults.

As part of regular servicing, it’s worth ensuring the airbox seals properly, the intake tract stays clean, and connectors aren’t pressure‑washed. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—dust, heat, touring loads—these simple checks go a long way. If a TPS‑related fault returns after cleaning and connector checks, plan for an assembly replacement rather than chasing the sensor alone, as Toyota does not generally supply the TPS separately for this model.

FAQs

Does a 2021 Land Cruiser actually have a throttle position sensor if it’s drive‑by‑wire?

Yes. Drive‑by‑wire relies on both an accelerator pedal position sensor and throttle position sensors built into the throttle body (petrol) or intake air control valve (diesel). Toyota’s ETCS‑i uses dual TPS signals so the ECU can cross‑check for accuracy and safety.

Can the TPS be replaced on its own on a 2021 Land Cruiser?

No. On this model the TPS is integrated into the throttle unit and isn’t sold separately by Toyota. If the sensor fails testing, the recommended repair is to replace the complete throttle body/intake air control valve assembly and carry out a throttle/idle relearn.

What fault codes point to a TPS issue, and what quick checks help?

Codes like P0120–P0124, P0220–P0222, and P2135 are common TPS/ETCS‑i flags. Quick checks: verify 12V system health, inspect the throttle connector for dust or moisture, ensure the intake tract is clean, and confirm the throttle plate isn’t sticking. If codes persist, test with a scan tool and follow Toyota repair manual procedures.