Parts for your 2021 Ford Ranger-Throttle position sensors

2021 Ford Ranger throttle-position-sensor (TPS) — what it does and how to look after it

Based on Ford’s own technical documentation, a throttle-position-sensor is fitted and relevant on the 2021 Ford Ranger. The Ford Workshop Manual (WSM) for Ranger T6 (2019–2021) details the Electronic Throttle Body (ETB) on the 2.3L EcoBoost petrol with dual throttle position sensors, and an electronically actuated intake throttle valve with position feedback on the 2.0L Bi-Turbo and 3.2L diesel variants (WSM Sections 303-14 and related ETB/IAT valve procedures). Ford’s diagnostic charts for this model also list TPS-related OBD-II codes (P0121, P0122, P0123, P2135), confirming the PCM monitors throttle position.

On the 2021 Ranger, the throttle-position-sensor is built into the throttle body (petrol) or intake throttle valve (diesel). Its job is to report the exact angle of the throttle plate to the engine computer so airflow can be controlled precisely. On the petrol EcoBoost, that means smooth response and correct fuelling. On the diesels, the throttle plate helps manage EGR flow and engine shutdown smoothness, and the position sensor keeps that plate where the PCM wants it.

There’s no fixed service interval for a TPS, but it’s smart to check it as part of routine servicing. Look under the bonnet for clean, tight electrical connectors at the throttle body or intake throttle valve, and make sure the wiring isn’t rubbed through. If the engine hunts at idle, hesitates off the line, drops into limp-home, or shows the MIL with codes like P0121/P2135, the TPS signal may be out of range. On these Rangers the sensor is integrated, so replacement generally means swapping the throttle body (petrol) or throttle valve assembly (diesel).

When replacing, use quality parts and avoid forcing the throttle plate by hand. After fitment, a throttle/idle relearn is usually required so the PCM can relearn stop positions. Many scan tools can run the routine, or it may relearn after a key-on/engine-off cycle and a short drive if the software supports it. If the plate is sticking due to carbon (more common on diesels), careful cleaning of the bore using a suitable intake-safe cleaner can help—avoid soaking electronics and don’t damage any coatings.

Day to day, there’s not much to maintain beyond keeping connectors dry and secure, scanning for codes if the MIL pops up, and addressing any drivability quirks early rather than letting them worsen.

• Common symptoms: erratic idle, poor throttle response, surging, limp mode, increased fuel use, MIL on
• Common TPS/ETB codes: P0121, P0122, P0123, P2135, P2111, P2112

Popular questions

Where is the TPS on a 2021 Ford Ranger?
It’s integrated into the throttle body on the 2.3L EcoBoost petrol (mounted at the intake manifold), and into the electronically controlled intake throttle valve on the diesels (in the intake piping near the manifold). There’s also an accelerator pedal position sensor at the pedal, which is separate from the TPS.

Does the TPS need calibration after replacement?
Yes. Because the sensor is part of the electronic throttle assembly, the PCM needs to relearn the throttle plate’s closed and open positions. Use a capable scan tool to run the throttle/idle relearn, or follow the service manual’s key-on and drive cycle procedure where applicable.

What fault codes point to a TPS issue on this model?
Look for P0121, P0122, P0123 (range/performance, low, high), P2135 (correlation), and sometimes P2111/P2112 (stuck open/closed). Always check wiring and connectors before condemning the throttle body or throttle valve assembly.