Parts for your 2009 Ford Falcon-Throttle position sensors

2009 Ford Falcon throttle position sensors (TPS): what they do and how to look after them

Based on Ford’s own technical literature—namely the FG Falcon Workshop Manual (Engine — Electronic Engine Controls, Section 303‑14A) and the factory FG wiring diagrams—the 2009 Ford Falcon uses electronic throttle control (drive‑by‑wire). The electronic throttle body contains two internal, redundant throttle position sensors, while the accelerator pedal carries its own dual position sensors. That means a throttle position sensor is absolutely present and relevant on the 2009 Falcon.

On an FG, the throttle position sensors aren’t a separate bolt‑on item like older cable‑throttle cars. They live inside the electronic throttle body and constantly report the blade angle to the PCM so fuelling, ignition timing, and idle speed stay smooth and on song. This redundancy helps the Falcon avoid runaway or erratic throttle behaviour, if the two signals don’t agree, the car will often drop into limp mode to keep everyone safe.

When the TPS signal goes off, the Falcon can show rough idle, hesitation on take‑off, cruise surging, poor fuel economy, or the wrench/check‑engine lamp. Common OBD‑II codes include P0120–P0123, P0220–P0223 and P2135. Because the sensors are integrated, a confirmed internal TPS fault usually means replacing the whole throttle body.

Good servicing practice for a 2009 Falcon includes:

• Inspecting the throttle body connector and harness under the bonnet for corrosion, oil ingress, or chafed wiring.
• Cleaning the throttle body with a throttle‑body safe cleaner every 40–60,000 km if deposits build up. Don’t force the blade by hand and avoid soaking the electronics.
• Checking battery health and grounds, low voltage can make throttle sensors look guilty.
• Scanning for DTCs before parts swapping, rule out pedal sensors and wiring faults.

If a replacement is needed, the usual steps are to disconnect the battery, remove the intake duct, unplug the connector, and unbolt the throttle body. Fit a fresh gasket or O‑ring, torque the fasteners to the workshop manual spec, reconnect everything, then carry out an idle/throttle relearn with a scan tool (or the prescribed key‑on/engine‑off procedure detailed in the WSM). Afterward, clear codes and road‑test to confirm the fix. Most workshops in Australia and New Zealand will treat this as a straightforward job, but the relearn and quality parts make all the difference to drivability.

• Is the TPS separate on a 2009 Falcon or part of the throttle body?
  On the FG Falcon, throttle position sensing is built into the electronic throttle body. If the TPS fails internally, the remedy is generally to replace the complete throttle body rather than a stand‑alone sensor.
• What are the common signs of a failing TPS on a 2009 FG Falcon?
  Owners often notice erratic idle, flat spots, cruise surging, reduced power/limp mode, or worse fuel economy. The wrench or check‑engine lamp may appear with codes like P0121 or P2135. Always verify with a scan and check the wiring first.
• Does a TPS/throttle body replacement need recalibration?
  Yes. After fitting, perform a throttle/idle relearn using a capable scan tool or the specific ignition‑cycle procedure in the Ford workshop manual. This helps the PCM relearn throttle limits for smooth idle and crisp throttle response.