Parts for your 2006 Ford Territory-Throttle position sensors

2006 Ford Territory throttle position sensors: what they do and how to look after them

Based on the Ford Territory SX/SY workshop manual and Ford powertrain service literature for the Barra 4.0, plus Bosch electronic throttle control documentation, the 2006 Ford Territory does use throttle position sensors (TPS). They’re not a separate, bolt-on sensor though. Instead, the TPS is built into the electronic throttle body as a pair of redundant position tracks that report throttle plate angle to the PCM. The accelerator pedal has its own pedal position sensor, and the PCM cross-checks both. So, while some listings show a “separate TPS”, the factory design integrates TPS inside the throttle body assembly.

The TPS’s job is to tell the PCM exactly where the throttle plate sits, so the engine can meter fuel, spark and idle speed properly. On the Territory, those dual TPS signals also support cruise control, gearbox shift quality, traction control and limp-home strategies. If the signals disagree or go out of range, the PCM flags a fault and may limit throttle to protect the engine and driveline.

There’s no scheduled TPS replacement interval on a 2006 Territory, but it’s smart to include throttle body checks in routine servicing every 40–60,000 kilometres. Keep the intake tract clean and inspect the throttle body connector and loom for chafing. If drivability gets a bit off, scan for DTCs such as P0121, P0122, P0123, P0220 or P2135. Common symptoms include:

• Erratic idle, stalling or surging
• Sluggish response or limp-home behaviour
• Warning lamps with stored TPS correlation codes

Because the TPS is integrated, replacement usually means fitting a complete throttle body. That’s the reliable fix if the position sensors are faulty. Some aftermarket parts claim to replace the sensor only, but the factory approach is to replace the assembly so the motor and dual sensors stay matched. When fitting a new throttle body:

• Disconnect the battery, remove the intake duct, unplug the connector and swap the unit with a new gasket
• Avoid forcing the throttle plate and don’t soak electronics when cleaning
• Perform an idle/ETC relearn with a scan tool, or follow Ford’s key-on/engine-idle drive cycle so the PCM can recalibrate
• Clear codes and road test for smooth response and stable idle

A careful clean of the throttle bore and plate using a suitable throttle-body cleaner can restore crisp response if deposits are the culprit. If faults persist after cleaning and relearn, the throttle body assembly is due for replacement.

Does a 2006 Ford Territory have a separate TPS?
Yes, it has throttle position sensing, but it’s built into the electronic throttle body as dual sensors. There isn’t a separate external TPS like older cable-throttle setups. The PCM cross-checks those signals against the accelerator pedal sensor for safety and accuracy.

Can the TPS be replaced on its own?
On most 2006 Territory variants, the TPS isn’t a serviceable standalone part. If the position sensors fail or go out of spec, the recommended repair is to replace the complete throttle body assembly. That keeps the motor and dual sensor tracks correctly matched and sealed.

Is a relearn needed after throttle body replacement?
Yes. After replacement or a thorough clean, run an ETC/idle relearn. A scan tool procedure is ideal, but a key-on/idle and short drive cycle can also let the PCM relearn throttle limits. Skipping this step can leave an unstable idle or hesitant tip-in.