Parts for your 2023 Toyota Aqua-Throttle position sensors

2023 Toyota Aqua throttle position sensor: what it does and how to look after it

Yes, the 2023 Toyota Aqua uses a throttle position sensor (TPS). Toyota’s ETCS‑i (Electronic Throttle Control System–intelligent) technical description and the 2021‑on Aqua service manual for the M15A‑FXE hybrid engine specify a TPS built into the throttle body alongside the throttle control motor. The ECM monitors dual TPS signals for throttle valve angle and sets diagnostic trouble codes such as P0120–P0124 if the readings are out of range or inconsistent. That’s straight from Toyota’s service literature and diagnostic sections for ETCS‑i on this platform.

On the 2023 Aqua, the TPS lives inside the electronic throttle body and isn’t typically serviced as a separate piece. Its job is to tell the engine computer exactly how far the throttle plate is open. In a hybrid like Aqua, that matters not just for acceleration feel but also for smooth engine starts, idle quality when the engine cuts in and out, fuel economy and emissions, and the seamless hand‑off between electric and petrol power.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for the TPS. Instead, think of it as “inspect and keep clean” as part of routine servicing. A dirty throttle bore can make the TPS readings less stable even if the sensor itself is fine. Every 60,000 kilometres or so, it’s smart to:

• Check for DTCs and scan data (throttle angle, accelerator correlation, idle control).
• Clean the throttle body with throttle‑safe cleaner and a lint‑free cloth—don’t force the plate by hand.
• Inspect the intake ducting and gasket for air leaks.

If faults show up (rough idle when the engine kicks in, flat spots, “Check Engine” with P012X codes, or limp‑home behaviour), testing with a scan tool will confirm if the TPS signals are the culprit. Because the sensor is integrated, replacement usually means fitting a new throttle body assembly. Use a new gasket, torque the fasteners correctly, and ensure no vacuum leaks under the bonnet.

After fitting, perform ETCS‑i/throttle learning with a suitable scan tool (Toyota Techstream or equivalent) so the ECU relearns the closed and open angles. If a scan tool isn’t available, the ECU will typically relearn after several key‑on cycles and a short drive, but the formal initialisation is the tidy way to get it spot‑on. As with all hybrid servicing, disconnect the 12‑volt negative terminal and follow Toyota’s safety guidance before getting hands‑on. Look after the throttle body and the TPS will keep doing its job quietly for years.

Popular questions

Where is the throttle position sensor on a 2023 Toyota Aqua?

It’s built into the electronic throttle body mounted on the intake side of the engine. There isn’t a separate, bolt‑on TPS, the sensor and throttle motor come as one assembly.

Do you need to calibrate the TPS after replacing the throttle body?

Yes—run the ETCS‑i/throttle learn procedure with a compatible scan tool so the ECU knows the exact closed and open throttle positions. Without it, the ECU will usually relearn over a few drive cycles, but initialisation gives cleaner idle and crisper response straight away.

What are the signs of a failing TPS on the Aqua?

Common clues include an erratic or high idle when the petrol engine starts, hesitation on take‑off, reduced power, and a “Check Engine” light with codes like P0120–P0124. A scan of live data will confirm if the TPS signals don’t track properly with pedal input.