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.
2012 Mazda CX-9 FWD V6-3.7LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Throttle Position Sensor: Testing and Inspection
THROTTLE POSITION (TP) SENSOR INSPECTION [MZI-3.7]
NOTE:
- Before performing the following inspection, make sure to follow the procedure as indicated in the troubleshooting flowchart. Description and Operation
- The TP sensor cannot be removed as a single unit. When replacing the TP sensor, replace it together with the throttle body as a single unit.
Voltage Inspection
1. Verify that no DTC related to APP sensor has been detected. On-Board Diagnostic Test
- If any DTCs related to APP sensor have been detected, perform the DTC inspection. Engine - DTC Table
2. Connect the M-MDS to the DLC-2.
3. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
4. Operate the accelerator pedal and verify that the TP sensor output voltage (PID: TP1, TP2) changes as shown in the following graph. On-Board Diagnostic Test
- If not verified, perform the "Circuit Open/Short Inspection".
- If there is no open or short circuit, replace the throttle body. Service and Repair
Circuit Open/Short Inspection
1. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Removal and Replacement
2. Disconnect the throttle body connector.
3. Disconnect the PCM connector.
4. Inspect the following wiring harnesses for open or short circuit. (Continuity inspection)
Open circuit
- If there is no continuity, there is an open circuit. Repair or replace the wiring harness.
- Throttle body terminal C and PCM terminal 2AL
- Throttle body terminal D and PCM terminal 2AP
- Throttle body terminal E and PCM terminal 2Z
- Throttle body terminal F and PCM terminal 2AN
Short circuit
- If there is continuity, there is a short circuit. Repair or replace the wiring harness.
- Throttle body terminal C and power supply
- Throttle body terminal C and body ground
- Throttle body terminal D and body ground
- Throttle body terminal E and power supply
- Throttle body terminal F and body ground
- Throttle body terminal F and power supply
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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