Throttle position (TP) sensor

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Focus. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The TP sensor is located on the throttle body.

It supplies the PCM with information about the position of the throttle plate.

It also detects the speed of actuation of the throttle plate.

The PCM uses the signals for the following functions among other things:

to determine the shift timing,
to control the main line pressure,
to control the torque converter lock-up clutch,
for kickdown.

In case of absence of the TP signal the engine control uses the signals of the MAF and IAT sensors as a substitute signal. The main line pressure is increased and hard shifts may occur.