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The throttle position sensor in the 2008 Chevy Cobalt plays a crucial role in helping the car's computer gauge the airflow entering the engine. Typically located on the throttle body at the top of the engine, it can be accessed from under the hood. When the driver presses the gas pedal, it triggers the opening of a plate that covers the throttle body. The more pressure applied to the pedal, the wider the plate opens, allowing more air into the combustion chamber. This operation relies on the TPS, which relays the gas pedal's position to the ECU, powering the plate accordingly. If the sensor gets dirty or faulty, the Cobalt's "check engine" light will come on, gear shifting may be affected, and you might encounter starting issues or a decrease in engine performance. Replacing the TPS typically costs around $180-$200, including both parts and labor.
The throttle position sensor on the 2008 Chevy Cobalt can be found at the back of the intake manifold.