How To Test The TPS Idle Switch (1992-1996 3.0L V6 Toyota Camry)

The idle switch, part of the throttle position sensor assembly on the 1992-1996 3.0L V6 Toyota Camry, can be quickly and easily tested to determine if it's functioning properly, faulty, or misadjusted.

In this tutorial, I'll walk you through the entire testing process and explain how to adjust the TPS and idle switch step by step.

APPLIES TO: This tutorial applies to the following vehicles:

• 3.0L V6 Toyota Camry: 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996.

If you need to test the throttle position sensor part of the idle switch, this tutorial will help: How To Test The TPS (1992-1996 3.0L Toyota Camry).

Idle Switch Continuity Tests

Testing the idle switch portion of the TPS is a pretty simple process that involves checking continuity between two specific terminals using a multimeter set to Ohms (Ω) mode.

Using the illustration of the TPS as a guide, identify and test terminals #3 and #4:

• Disconnect the TPS from its 4-wire connector.
  • NOTE: The engine must be OFF during this test.
• Insert the recommended thickness of the feeler gauge between the throttle stop screw and the throttle lever.
  • Refer to the table below for the correct continuity reading (if you need help finding the throttle stop screw, see: Location Of The Throttle Stop Screw).

If the continuity reading is out of specification, adjust or replace the TPS assembly as needed.

Idle Switch Continuity Specifications
Feeler Gauge Thick.	Pins	Ohms
0.020 In. (0.50 mm)	1 and 2	Continuity
0.028 In. (0.70 mm)	1 and 2	No Continuity

If the throttle switch on your 3.0L Toyota Camry fails any of the pin continuity tests mentioned above, it's important to verify that it isn't simply misadjusted before replacing it. The next section will guide you through the adjustment process.

Adjusting The Throttle Position Sensor Assembly

If you need to remove and replace the throttle position sensor assembly, it's critical to adjust it to the correct specifications before securing it in place.

The adjustment process isn't difficult, and in this section, I'll guide you through it step by step.

Here's what you'll need to do:

1. Turn the ignition switch to its Off position and make sure the TP sensor assembly is disconnected from its connector.
2. Place your multimeter in Ohms mode.
3. Insert a.024 In. (0.60 mm) feeler gauge between the throttle stop screw and the throttle lever and:
   • Test continuity between terminal #3 and #4. Your multimeter should register NO CONTINUITY.
   • If continuity exits, adjust the TPS sensor by rotating it until the multimeter just looses continuity.
   • Slightly tighten the TPS screws.
4. Place a.020 In. (0.50 mm) feeler gauge between the throttle stop screw and the throttle lever and:
   • Test continuity between terminal #3 and #4. Your multimeter should register continuity.
   • If continuity does not exist, adjust the TPS sensor by rotating it until continuity exists.
   • Slightly tighten the TPS screws.
5. Place a.028 In. (0.70 mm) feeler gauge between the throttle stop screw and the throttle lever and:
   • Test continuity between terminal #3 and #4. Your multimeter should register NO continuity.
6. Repeat steps 3 and 5 to verify No Continuity and Continuity exist with the indicated feeler gauge thickness.
7. Once the proper continuity specs have been verified, tighten the TP sensor assembly mounting bolts.
8. Once you're done, recheck the continuities once more to make sure the TP sensor didn't move on you when you tightened the two bolts.

Location Of The Throttle Stop Screw

NOTE: To check or adjust the TPS assembly, you'll need to slide a feeler gauge between the throttle stop screw and the throttle lever. The orange arrow in the photo above points to the throttle stop screw.

The throttle stop screw is a small, adjustable screw on the throttle body of your 1992-1996 3.0L Toyota Camry. Its job is to set the lowest position of the throttle plate when you're off the gas pedal.

This keeps the throttle plate from shutting completely, which helps maintain a steady idle and prevents the engine from stalling.

Where To Buy The TPS And Save

Probably, the best place to save on the purchase of a new TPS, for your 3.0L Toyota Camry, is online. Check out the following links. I think they'll save you a few bucks:

Not sure if the above TPS fits your particular 3.0L Toyota Camry? Don't worry, once you get to the site they'll make sure it fits by asking you the specifics of your particular Nissan vehicle. If it doesn't fit, they'll find you the right one.

More 3.0L Toyota Camry Tutorials

You can find a complete list of 3.0L Toyota Camry tutorials in this index:

• 3.0L Toyota Camry Index of Articles.

Here's a sample of the tutorials you'll find there:

• How To Test Engine Compression (1992-2006 3.0L V6 Toyota Camry).
• How To Test For A Blown Head Gasket (1992-2006 3.0L V6 Toyota Camry).
• How To Test The TPS (1997-2001 3.0L V6 Toyota Camry).
• How To Test The Alternator (1997-2001 3.0L V6 Toyota Camry).