Parts for your 2016 Ford Falcon-Throttle position sensors

2016 Ford Falcon throttle position sensor

Based on the Ford FG X Falcon Workshop Manual (Section 303-14B – Electronic Throttle Control), Ford Australia service literature, and parts catalogues for FG X XR6 and XR8 throttle bodies, the 2016 Ford Falcon uses an electronic throttle body with twin, integrated throttle position sensors (TPS). They’re not a separate, cable-era bolt-on, they’re built into the drive-by-wire throttle body and work alongside the accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor. So yes, the TPS is relevant and fitted on the 2016 Falcon, but it’s part of the throttle body assembly.

The TPS tells the powertrain control module exactly where the throttle plate sits, so fueling, ignition timing, idle control, cruise, transmission shift scheduling, and torque management all behave as they should. With a dual-sensor arrangement, the PCM constantly cross-checks for accuracy and redundancy, helping the Falcon avoid unwanted surges and keeping it compliant with emissions targets. It’s worth noting the TPS is different from the pedal sensor, one reports what the driver asks for, the other reports what the throttle actually does.

There’s no scheduled replacement interval for the TPS on a 2016 Falcon, but it pays to keep the throttle body clean. Under the bonnet, oil vapour and dust can gum up the throttle plate and skew readings. During routine servicing, a careful clean with throttle-body-safe cleaner and a lint-free cloth can smooth out idle and response. Avoid forcing the plate by hand and don’t drown the motor. If TPS faults show up (typical DTCs include P0121, P0122, P0123, P0222, P0223, P2135), expect symptoms like limp-home, erratic idle, poor shift quality, or cruise control dropping out.

Because the TPS is integrated, replacement means swapping the throttle body assembly. Use a new gasket/O-ring, keep the connector dry, and torque mounting fasteners to spec per the Ford manual. After cleaning or replacement, perform an electronic throttle/idle learn with a capable scan tool, or run a basic learn procedure (key-on for 30 seconds without touching the pedal, key-off, then start and allow to idle until warm, followed by a gentle drive cycle). This helps the Falcon relearn its throttle adaptations and restores a smooth, predictable pedal feel.

• Signs of trouble: check engine light, reduced power, hunting idle, harsh shifts, high fuel use.
• Service tip: inspect and clean at major services or every 30,000–40,000 km if driving in dusty conditions.

Popular questions about 2016 Ford Falcon throttle position sensors

Does the 2016 Falcon have a separate TPS I can replace?
No. On the FG X, the TPS is part of the electronic throttle body and comes as an integrated, dual-sensor unit. If the sensor is faulty, the correct fix is to replace the throttle body assembly and carry out a throttle/idle relearn.

Can a dirty throttle body cause TPS codes on a 2016 Falcon?
It can. Grime around the throttle plate can cause inconsistent position feedback, triggering correlation or range/performance faults. A careful clean with the right solvent often restores stable readings. If codes persist, test wiring and the throttle body assembly.

How do you reset the throttle after cleaning or replacement?
Best practice is to use a scan tool to run the electronic throttle and idle learn routine. If that’s not available, a basic learn often works: key on for ~30 seconds (no pedal), key off, then start and let it idle to operating temp, followed by a steady drive. This helps the PCM relearn adaptations for smooth response.