The throttle position sensor in your Toyota Camry also incorporates the idle switch. If you are here on this page, chances are you are having Toyota Camry idle problems. Today I’ll be showing you how to test a Test a Toyota Camry Idle Switch in a 1995 Camry with a 2.2 liter engine in it. Problems with your idle switch will cause your idle to suffer, and create a rough idle in your Toyota.
This can lead to your engine running inefficiently or your 2.2 liter fouling spark plugs prematurely. In order to test the idle switch accurately using our guide, you’ll need to use a digital multimeter. If the throttle position sensor is what you need to test, check out this guide here.
Where is my Camry Idle Switch Located?
The Camry idle switch is part of your throttle body, and is used to govern your Camry idle air control valve. This valve is mounted to the intake manifold, and has 2 coolant lines running to it. Your idle air control valve is there to meter air into your engine, to maintain an even idle. The coolant lines are meant to quiet the operation of the air valve.
If your engine idle is rough or your Camry has a poor idle, you’ll need to start with the idle switch.
How does the Camry Idle switch work?
As part of your throttle body and TPS sensor, the Camry idle switch triggers a signal when your throttle plate closes. When your throttle body closes your Toyota engine computer will know when to engage the idle air control valve properly. Because your 2.2 liter Camry uses a Throttle Opener Diaphragm Assembly, you’ll need to apply vacuum to this port in order to activate and test the idle switch.
When this idle switch goes out, you’ll see a variety of issues with your Camry idle. Here’s just a few common issues.
- Engine shuts off when air conditioning is on
- Idle too low
- Engine RPM dips after letting off gas
Testing the idle switch is easy to do once you’ve found and disconnected your Camry throttle body. Using your multimeter, you’ll be testing for continuity between the pins on your throttle position sensor.
Here is the Toyota Camry Throttle Position Sensor wiring diagram to show you the values for each pin.
- PIN A – Ground
- PIN B – Idle Switch Signal
- PIN C – TPS Signal
- PIN D – 5 Volts of power
To test your idle switch, you’ll need to turn the dial on your multimeter to measure resistance or OHMS mode. You’ll also be using a feeler gauge to gap your throttle body stop screw. Turn your Camry ignition switch to the “ON” position, and then probe PIN A and PIN B for continuity
With the throttle plate closed, this voltage should show continuity between these two pins. Now insert a .028 In. or .71 mm blade from your feeler gauge into the backing of your throttle body and the stop screw.
With this feeler inserted into the back and the throttle stop screw, there should be no continuity between PIN A and PIN B. If your Camry idle switch shows these results when you insert a feeler gauge, then your idle issues are regarding your air idle controller. If the continuity is still present after you insert the feeler gauge, step it up in thickness.
Insert a .029 inch blade from your feeler gauge and if there’s still continuity it’s time to replace your throttle position sensor. Have any questions about this Camry Idle Switch guide? Leave us a message below and let us know!