Parts for your 2013 Ford Territory-Throttle position sensors

2013 Ford Territory throttle-position-sensor (TPS): what it does and how to look after it

Based on the Ford Workshop Manual for the SZ Territory (Section 303-14: Electronic Engine Controls), Ford Electrical Wiring Diagrams for 2013 Territory, and Bosch electronic throttle (ETC) system documentation used with the Barra 4.0 petrol and the 2.7 TDCi V6 diesel, the 2013 Ford Territory does use a throttle-position-sensor. It’s not a separate, old-school sensor on a cable throttle, it’s built into the electronic throttle body (petrol) and, on the diesel, a position sensor is built into the intake throttle/anti‑shudder valve assembly. The accelerator pedal also carries its own pedal position sensors.

On a 2013 Territory, the TPS forms part of a smart, drive‑by‑wire setup. The petrol models use an electronic throttle body with dual, redundant position sensors to tell the ECU exactly where the throttle plate sits. The diesel uses a throttle plate mainly for EGR control and smooth shutdown, and that unit also has a position sensor. The upshot: the car manages airflow and throttle angle electronically for better drivability, emissions and fuel economy.

Because the TPS is integrated, it’s rarely serviced as a stand‑alone item. Routine care is simple:

• Keep the air filter fresh and the intake tract clean to prevent oily deposits on the throttle plate.
• If idle is hunting or there’s lazy throttle response, a careful throttle body clean (petrol) can help. Use appropriate throttle cleaner, don’t flood the electronics, and avoid forcing the plate.
• After cleaning or battery disconnection, perform an idle/throttle relearn: key ON (engine off) for ~30 seconds, key OFF, then start and let it idle (no loads) for a few minutes. A scan tool relearn is ideal if available.

Replacement is straightforward but should be treated like any other electronic component:

1. Confirm the fault with live data: look for smooth, matching TPS1/TPS2 signals and stable idle angle. Rule out wiring and the accelerator pedal position sensors.
2. If the throttle body or diesel throttle valve is faulty, replace the whole unit with quality parts. New gasket/O‑ring as required.
3. Clear codes, carry out throttle/idle learn, and take a gentle drive cycle so the ECU can adapt.

Typical symptoms of a failing TPS/throttle body include intermittent limp mode, rough idle, surging, dead spots on light throttle and a glowing MIL. Don’t ignore it—poor signals can cause odd shifting, higher fuel use and unstable idle. A quick scan and a sensible clean can save a lot of head‑scratching, and if it’s genuinely failed, a new throttle body restores that smooth Territory feel Aussie and Kiwi drivers expect.

Popular questions about 2013 Ford Territory throttle-position-sensors

Does a 2013 Ford Territory have a separate TPS I can change on its own?
No. On the petrol Barra, the TPS is built into the electronic throttle body. On the 2.7 TDCi, the intake throttle (anti‑shudder) valve has its own position sensor built in. In both cases, faults typically mean replacing the complete unit rather than a separate sensor.

How do you reset or relearn the TPS after cleaning or replacement?
Often the ECU will relearn automatically. A handy method is: key ON for ~30 seconds (engine off), key OFF, then start and let it idle with all accessories off for a few minutes. A professional scan tool can run the official ETC/throttle relearn and is the best option after part replacement.

What are the common signs of a dodgy TPS on a Territory?
Look for erratic idle, flat spots, sudden limp mode, surging at cruise, or a check‑engine light with TPS or throttle actuator codes. Always check wiring/connectors and the accelerator pedal sensors before condemning the throttle body.