2007 Chrysler Aspen Throttle Position Sensor: A Complete Guide
Fix your Aspen's hesitation, rough idle, and stalling issues by understanding and replacing the throttle position sensor.
- Common symptoms include hesitation, erratic idle, hard shifting, and stalling.
- Replacement is very easy for a DIY mechanic and takes less than 30 minutes with basic tools.
- While aftermarket sensors work, many Chrysler owners prefer OEM (Mopar) or premium aftermarket (Delphi, Standard) sensors for best reliability.
- No specific recalls exist for the TPS, but be aware that similar symptoms can be caused by a failure of the entire throttle body assembly.
Is Your Aspen Hesitating or Stalling? It Could Be the TPS.
If you're experiencing frustrating engine problems like sudden hesitation, a shaky or unpredictable idle, or even stalling, a failing throttle position sensor is a likely culprit. This small sensor plays a big role, and when it starts to send bad information, your Aspen's computer gets confused, leading to poor performance. These symptoms can appear suddenly and make the vehicle feel unreliable.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Throttle Position Sensor
- Hesitation and Poor Acceleration: The vehicle may feel sluggish and unresponsive when you press the gas pedal.
- Rough or Erratic Idle: The engine might idle too high or too low, or the RPMs may bounce up and down.
- Hard Shifting: You may notice harsh downshifts, particularly when you take your foot off the accelerator.
- Engine Stalling: The engine may shut off unexpectedly, especially at low speeds or when coming to a stop.
- Check Engine Light: A faulty TPS will almost always trigger the Check Engine Light and store diagnostic trouble codes like P0123 or P0124. 🎬 Watch: A breakdown of the 6 most common TPS symptoms.
The 'Red Lightning Bolt' Warning
On your Aspen, a failing throttle sensor can sometimes trigger the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) warning light, which looks like a red lightning bolt. This often puts the vehicle into a reduced-power 'limp mode,' making it very slow to accelerate. While this can be caused by the TPS, it is also a common symptom of a failure in the entire throttle body assembly on these vehicles.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket TPS Brand
When replacing your TPS, you have several options. While some owners of Chrysler vehicles prefer to use original Mopar parts to guarantee compatibility, many high-quality aftermarket brands offer a reliable and affordable alternative.
- Premium Aftermarket (e.g., Delphi, Standard Ignition): Brands like Delphi are often original equipment manufacturers for many car companies and are known for their quality. Standard Motor Products is another well-regarded brand that produces reliable electronic components. These are solid choices for a dependable repair.
- Value-Focused (e.g., Dorman, Motorad): Dorman is a widely known brand that produces a vast range of parts, sometimes with improvements over the original design. These brands offer a good balance of performance and cost for the average driver.
- Budget Options (e.g., Replacement, True Tech): These brands provide the most cost-effective solution. They can get your vehicle back on the road, but their long-term durability may not match that of the premium or OEM parts.
Pro Tip: Given the low cost and ease of replacement, choosing a premium aftermarket or even an OEM sensor can be a worthwhile investment to avoid the frustration of a premature failure from a budget part.
Cost to Replace the 2007 Chrysler Aspen TPS
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Sensor | $29.99 - $72.42 |
| New OEM (Mopar) Sensor | $80 - $130 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $80 - $230 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) the same as the Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor (APPS)?
No. The APPS is located on the gas pedal assembly inside the car and reads your foot's input. The TPS is located on the engine's throttle body and reads the throttle blade's actual position. Both are part of the same electronic throttle system, but they are different parts.
Can I just clean the throttle position sensor?
No. The TPS is a sealed electronic sensor. The issue is usually internal wear, not dirt. While it is a good idea to clean any carbon buildup from the throttle body itself while you are working there, cleaning the sensor will not fix it. 🎬 See how to properly clean carbon buildup from your Hemi throttle body. A faulty TPS must be replaced.
Do I need to reset the computer after replacing the TPS?
Generally, a specific reset procedure is not required for just replacing the TPS. After installing the new sensor, the vehicle's computer will 'relearn' the new sensor's parameters as you drive. It is always a good practice to disconnect the negative battery terminal for about 15 minutes during the repair, which will clear any fault codes and reset the system.
Is this a difficult repair to do myself?
No, this is a very easy repair for a DIYer. It typically requires only a screwdriver or small socket set and takes less than 30 minutes. The sensor is easily accessible on the side of the throttle body.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide to replacing the sensor yourself.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 5017479AA 4861552AC 4861552AB 4861552AA
The throttle position sensor for the 2007 Chrysler Aspen is a 3-terminal electronic sensor that mounts directly to the throttle body assembly.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Chrysler Aspen:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Aspen Hesitating or Stalling? It Could Be the TPS.
- Common Symptoms of a Failing Throttle Position Sensor
- The 'Red Lightning Bolt' Warning
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket TPS Brand
- Cost to Replace the 2007 Chrysler Aspen TPS
- Frequently Asked Questions
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