Hi Folks, I have a 1999 Dodge Caravan which I purchased new in 1999. It has the 2.4L 4cyl and currently 31,000 miles on it (Yes I know.... very low mileage).

Recently the check engine light has started intermittently coming on. After a few trips it goes out and then will come on again. When I had it in for an oil change recently, the shop read the code and said it was for a faulty throttle position sensor. They reset it - the light stayed out for about 3 weeks - and came back on again.

I took it back and they told me no need to fix it as it really doesn't mean anything and wont affect drivabilty - plus since I don't need an inspection sticker for another year and a half not to worry.

Wondering if anyone has any feedback on what this sensor does/is. I own a DJ Company and this is the vehicle we use to go to/from weddings (which is why mileage is so low - sits in the garage other than to/from weddings). Just don't want to have an issue where the van dies on the way to a wedding.

Thanks in advance folks.....

 

a throttle position sensor tells the computer how far you're pressing the accelerator pedal. Once the computer knows the air and engine temperature and how much acceleration you're requesting, it can compute the proper air fuel mixture.

The sensor itself is a potentiometer -- like a volume control on a radio. The more you move it, the more it varies the voltage to the computer (and the faster it wears out). Just like a volume control, the wear spots create static and that's when the computer sets a trouble code. The computer expects to see a certain voltage at start up with the throttle closed. If the sensor is worn or misadjusted, that can also set a code.

These sensors usually don't cause a breakdown on the road. When they get really bad, you'll feel a "dead spot" while you accelerate.