My check engine light came on and I got the codes after checking the ECU 12 6 and 4 3. This is the Throttle Position Sensor code for and Automatic transmission. My question is, is this serious and can I fix it myself or should I take it in to have it done? If I do take it in, how much will it cost? Any help would be greatly appreciated, please help!!!!!
Thanks

 

Diagnostic Trouble Code 0403 points to a problem with the Throttle Position Sensor. The TPS responds to the accelerator pedal movement. This sensor is a kind of potentiometer which transforms the throttle position into output voltage, and emits the voltage signal to the Engine Control Module. In addition, the sensor detects the opening and closing speed of the throttle valve and feeds the voltage signal to the ECM.

This malfunction may be detected in three different circumstances.

A) An excessively low or high voltage from the sensor is sent to the ECM. In this situation the ECM enters fail-safe mode (acceleration will be poor) and turns on the Malfunction Indicator Lamp.
Possible causes include ...
- Harness or connectors (the throttle position sensor is open or shorted.)
- faulty Throttle Position Sensor

B) A high voltage from the sensor is sent to the ECM under light load driving conditions.
Possible causes include ...
- Harness or connectors (the throttle position sensor is open or shorted.)
- faulty Throttle Position Sensor
- fuel injector(s)
- Camshaft Position Sensor
- Mass Air Flow Sensor

C) A low voltage from the sensor is sent to the ECM under heavy load driving conditions.
Possible causes include ...
- Harness or connectors (the throttle position sensor is open or shorted.)
- intake air leaks
- faulty Throttle Position Sensor

 

Diagnostic Trouble Code 1206 points to a problem with the TPS.

The Throttle Position Sensor detects the throttle valve position and sends a signal to the Transmission Control Module.

The Throttle Position Switch consists of a Wide Open Throttle position switch and a closed throttle position switch. The WOT switch sends a signal to the TCM when the throttle is open at least 1/2 of the WOT position. The closed throttle position switch sends a signal to the TCM when the throttle is fully closed.

The Sensor and Switch are integrated into one unit designated TPS.

This malfunction may be detected when the TCM receives an excessively low or high voltage from the sensor.
Possible causes include ...
- Harness or connectors (the throttle position sensor is open or shorted.)
- faulty Throttle Position Sensor
- faulty Throttle Position Switch

 

The Throttle Position Sensor is easy to see and reach. It is located at the back side of the Throttle Body, high up on the engine. The TPS is easy to replace: two electrical connectors and two Phillips head screws. This job can be done by the home mechanic.

The two Diagnostic Trouble Codes you reported could both arise from a faulty TPS. It's a good idea to test your TPS before condemning it and buying a replacement. The procedure for testing the TPS is covered in the Chilton repair manual (page 4-18) and the Haynes repair manual (page 6-8).

 

how do i test it? and if i was to take it to a dealership, how much would it cost to fix?
thanks for your response i appreciate it

 

I dont have the manual to see how to test it can anyone explain it? How does the Mass Air Flow Sensor effect the Throttle Position Sensor? I have had a Weapon*R pop charger on. It was on for a month and the Check Engine LIght never came on. However I just took the filter off and cleaned it and then put it back on a few days before the light came on. Could this have been what caused it? If so what can I do to fix it? Please help Im in a big hurry I have a big trip coming up in 2 days and need to know what to do. Please help!!!!! Oh and one more thing If I took it to the dealership should I just leave the Weapon*R filter on it or put the stock air box back on? The Warranty has expired so I dont have to worry about voiding it. And how much would this cost to fix. Sorry for all the questions I just need some help really bad.
Thanks

 

Im not trying to be annoying but I really need some help!!!! Along with the questions above I have one more question. Is it safe to drive my car now or do I need to get it done immediately. I am taking it to the dealership tomorrow just to see what they say. I would really like to get some imput on here though. Thanks

 

Well, you need a manual so go and get one. You can buy a Chilton or Haynes repair manual at any large bookstore or auto parts store. It may be available at your public library.