Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Code 41, TP Sensor Circuit, Open Or Shorted Circuit: Notes
Throttle Position (TP) sensor consists of a contact point (idle switch) and a potentiometer, and is connected to throttle valve shaft on throttle body. TP sensor detects throttle valve opening. Idle switch detects throttle opening and turns on during idle. Fully opened throttle is detected by potentiometer.
ECM provides a 5-volt reference voltage to TP sensor and as brush moves over resistance according to throttle valve opening, output voltage varies accordingly. ECM monitors on/off signal and sensor output voltage, and uses these to detect throttle valve opening.
Code 41 will set if throttle position input at ECM indicates Wide Open Throttle (WOT) with engine idling for at least .5 second, or if throttle position input at ECM indicates and idle signal with engine off idle for at least .5 second.
- Checks for a fault in Yellow wire between ECM and TP sensor.
- Checks for open in Brown wire between ECM and TP sensor.
- Checks for a fault in Light Green wire between ECM and TP sensor, a faulty ECM, or a misadjusted or faulty TP sensor.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.