GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Object Number: 153103  Size: MF
(1)Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) Module
(2)Throttle Body Assembly
(3)Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor

The throttle actuator control (TAC) system uses vehicle electronics and components to calculate and control the position of the throttle blade. This eliminates the need for a mechanical cable attachment from the accelerator pedal to the throttle body. This system also performs the cruise control functions as well.

The TAC system components include the following:

    • The accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor
    • The throttle body
    • The throttle actuator control (TAC) module
    • The powertrain control module (PCM)

Each of these components interface together to ensure accurate calculations and control of the throttle position.

Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor


Object Number: 153097  Size: SH

The APP sensor is mounted on the accelerator pedal assembly. The APP is actually 2 individual accelerator pedal position sensors within one housing. Two separate signal, low reference, and 5.0-volt reference circuits are used to connect the APP and the TAC module. The APP sensor 1 signal voltage is low at the rest position and increases as the accelerator pedal is applied. APP sensor 2 signal voltage is high at the rest position and decreases as the accelerator pedal is applied.

Throttle Body Assembly


Object Number: 153098  Size: SH

The throttle body for the TAC system is similar to a conventional throttle body with a couple of exceptions. One exception being the use of a motor to control the throttle position instead of a mechanical cable. The other exception is the new design throttle position (TP) sensor. The TP sensor mounts on the side of the throttle body opposite the throttle actuator motor. The TP sensor is actually 2 individual TP sensors within one housing. Separate signal, low reference, and 5.0-volt reference circuits are used to connect the TP sensors and the TAC module. The TP sensor 1 signal voltage increases as the throttle opens, from around 1.0 volt at 0 percent throttle to above 3.5 volts at 100 percent throttle. TP sensor 2 signal voltage increases as the throttle is opened, from around 1.0 volt at 0 percent throttle to above 3.5 volts at 100 percent throttle.

Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) Module


Object Number: 153102  Size: SH

The TAC module is the control center for the electronic throttle system. The TAC module and the PCM communicate via a dedicated redundant serial data circuit. The TAC module and the PCM monitor the commanded throttle position and compare the commanded position to the actual throttle position. This is accomplished by monitoring the APP and the TP sensor. These 2 values must be within a calibrated value of each other. The TAC module also monitors each individual circuit of the TP sensor and the APP to verify proper operation.