The Throttle Position sensor measures the throttle position, which is controlled by the gas pedal. It is used to determine engine load and if it fails it can cause automatic transmission shifting problems.
It tell's it when to shift ....depending on throttle position
Throttle position sensor
Normal cause is a failed TPS. (throttle position sensor)
Probable failed throttle position sensor.
Could be your TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) is bad.
tps throttle position sensor
On a computer controlled transmission, the throttle position sensor is one input used for shift timing.
My 1997 would not shift out of first gear, was 'throttle position sensor'.
a bad throttle position sensor will cause: transmission shift issues, bucking, jerking, idle surging, engine cuts off, hesitation on take off, surge while cruising down highway. all or part of these symptoms will indicate a bad sensor. not all the time will check engine light be on!! sometime these symptoms will not set a problem code.
Mine did the same thing. Change the throttle position sensor. It's only $20.
I had the same problems and it was 3 sensors gone bad. Map sensor, Throttle position sensor and mass airflow sensor. Have those checked out by a reputable mechanic 1st.
It is possible, along with a miss-adjusted kick-down cable or a worn kick-down band.