I've got an '86 2m4, and every winter my TPS starts going to hell... Is there something that is causing them to wear out? Is this a common problem? I'm kind of sick of spending money on the blessed things..

Thanks!

First, let me say I don't know what I am talking about.

OK, now I would suspect some bad ground somewhere making life difficult for your TPS. Maybe near the ECM, maybe on the engine....If you can look up that circuit and find connections to clean it may help.

A bad TPS ground would set a code 21 AND a code 15, they share the same return path. The splice is next to the ECM in the cabin.

Any codes? Is the tab that keeps the connector on the sensor still intact?

It is setting a code, IIRC it is 21, but I'll have to double check it to make sure... This seems to go off like clockwork every winter :/

Yes, the tab is still on the connector...

I'll see if I can't run that test tomorrow, supposed to be pretty warm...

A corroded/loose connector can cause this problem. When replacing the TPS, reinserting the connector wears clean a connection point. However a loose connection (of the pins) causes the connector pin to corrode and eventually fail.

I would replace the TPS connector and see if the trouble returns.

Well, finally got out and took a look at it... (I am a master procrastinator) The connector is indeed most likely at fault... The bottom pin in the connector was backed out of its tube. I pulled it forward, and held the wire at the back when I put it back in, so it should have gone in all the way this time... If I still have issues, I'll buy a new plug.

Thanks for saving me $80 :3