What would a short circuit in the TPS sensor circuit likely cause?

A short circuit in the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) circuit would likely lead to high voltage Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). The TPS is responsible for providing the engine control module (ECM) with information about the position of the throttle plate. If there is a short circuit, the TPS may send an incorrect voltage signal back to the ECM. This can result in the sensor reading higher than normal voltage levels, which the ECM interprets as a malfunction.

Furthermore, many modern vehicles are equipped with built-in diagnostics that monitor sensor outputs. When a sensor provides a reading outside of the expected range due to a fault like a short circuit, it triggers a fault code to be stored in the system, which is why high voltage DTCs would likely be recorded as a direct consequence.

In contrast to other potential issues like engine stalling, fuel pressure problems, or overheating, these would not generally be direct outcomes of a TPS short circuit. Stalling and overheating could be caused by a variety of sensor malfunctions or engine management issues, but they do not specifically correlate with the immediate electrical failure indicated by a short circuit in the TPS circuit.