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Parts for your 2011 Ford Falcon-Throttle position sensors
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2011 Ford Falcon throttle position sensors: what they do and how to look after them
Based on the Ford FG Falcon Workshop Manual (PC/ED – Electronic Throttle Control), factory wiring diagrams for the FG series, and Bosch drive‑by‑wire throttle documentation, the 2011 Ford Falcon does use throttle position sensors. They’re built into the electronic throttle body as dual, redundant tracks and are not a separate, bolt‑on sensor. The accelerator pedal also has its own position sensor. So yes, the Falcon has TPS functionality, but it’s integrated into the throttle body assembly rather than a standalone part.
On a 2011 Falcon, the throttle position sensors tell the PCM exactly where the throttle blade sits at any moment. With drive‑by‑wire, the pedal is a request and the PCM commands the throttle motor to open the blade, the TPS tracks confirm the actual angle. That feedback is used for fuelling, spark timing, idle control, auto shift behaviour, cruise control and stability/traction systems. The twin‑track design is a safety feature: the PCM constantly compares both signals and throws a fault if they disagree.
As part of servicing, there isn’t a separate TPS to swap. If a TPS fault is confirmed (typical codes include P0121, P0122, P0123, P0222, P0223, P2106, P2110), the fix is usually to replace the complete electronic throttle body. Before condemning it, it’s worth checking the harness and connector under the bonnet for corrosion, loose pins or oil ingress, and verifying good battery voltage and grounds. Symptoms can include a wrench or check‑engine light, limp‑home mode, erratic idle, surging or poor throttle response.
Cleaning can help if the blade is gummed up: remove the intake duct and gently clean the bore and edges with a throttle‑body safe cleaner and a lint‑free cloth. Don’t force the blade by hand and avoid soaking the motor housing. If the unit is removed, fit a new gasket/O‑ring and tighten evenly. After replacement or a thorough clean, perform a KAM (Keep Alive Memory) reset and throttle/idle relearn using a scan tool where possible. Many techs also do a basic relearn: key on (engine off) for ~30 seconds without touching the pedal, then start and let it idle for a few minutes, cycling the A/C on and off.
Quality matters here. An OE or reputable brand throttle body tends to play nicest with the Falcon’s PCM logic and helps avoid repeat faults.
- Technical references: Ford FG Falcon Workshop Manual (PC/ED – Electronic Throttle Control), Ford FG wiring diagrams (APP/TPS circuits), Bosch ETC system overview, Autodata service guidance for FG Falcon throttle body.
FAQs
Does a 2011 Ford Falcon have a throttle position sensor?
Yes. The FG‑series Falcon uses an electronic throttle body with dual, built‑in throttle position sensors. They’re part of the throttle body assembly and work alongside the accelerator pedal position sensor to manage drive‑by‑wire throttle control.
Can the TPS be replaced separately on a 2011 Falcon?
No. On this model the TPS is integrated into the throttle body and isn’t a serviceable separate piece. If the sensor has failed, the practical repair is to replace the complete electronic throttle body after confirming wiring and power/ground integrity.
What are common symptoms of a failing TPS on a 2011 Falcon?
Owners often see a wrench or check‑engine light, limp mode, rough or high idle, surging, flat spots or poor throttle response. Scan tools typically show TPS‑related or ETC‑limp codes. Always rule out connector issues or a dirty throttle before replacing parts.