A clean throttle body regulates how much air enters the combustion chamber when you push the gas pedal. But if your car is consuming excess fuel and idling roughly, the throttle body needs a good scrubbing.
Cleaning the throttle body isn’t difficult, but the steps can be confusing, as they differ for mechanical and electrical throttle systems.
So, let’s explore how to clean the throttle body, the signs it needs attention, and why it’s an important preventive measure.
This Article Contains:
- How to Clean a Cable-Operated Throttle Body
- How to Clean an Electronically-Operated Throttle Body
- 7 Warning Signs You Need to Clean the Throttle Body
- How Much Does It Cost to Clean a Clogged Throttle Body?
- Is It Important to Clean the Throttle Body?
- How Often Should You Clean the Throttle Body?
How to Clean a Cable-Operated Throttle Body
For throttle body cleaning, you’ll need experience handling air intake system components under the hood. You’ll also need access to several materials, such as a throttle body cleaner (or air intake cleaner), socket wrench set, paper towels, rubber gloves, and goggles.
Remember, the throttle body cleaner is a flammable spray, so it’s best to let a professional handle the job for your safety and convenience.
Here’s how a mechanic will clean the cable-operated throttle body:
Step 1: Prep the Vehicle and Disconnect the Battery
The mechanic will first park your car on flat ground in a ventilated area and open its hood. Then, to avoid electrical accidents, they’ll disconnect the car battery.
Step 2: Locate the Throttle Body
Next, they’ll look for your car’s throttle body, a metallic part with a disc on one side. They’ll mostly find it between the engine air filter (or air cleaner) and intake manifold.
If they can’t locate it, they’ll ask you to press the gas pedal (with the engine off) to observe the movement of the throttle shaft.
Here’s why:
In cars manufactured before the 2000s, there’s a throttle cable that connects the metallic body and shaft to the accelerator pedal. When you push the pedal, the throttle shaft moves, making it easier for your mechanic to find it.
Step 3: Detach the Air Intake Tube
Once they find the throttle body, they’ll use a socket wrench or a screwdriver to detach the air intake tube connected to it. To disconnect the tube, the mechanic will carefully remove its hose clamp, screw, or bolt and set them aside.
Step 4: Clean the Throttle Body
Now, they’ll wear safety goggles and rubber gloves, then spray the air intake cleaner onto the open end of the throttle body.
Then, turn the disc-like device on the throttle body’s side to open the butterfly valve (throttle plate). With the valve open, they’ll spray a few more times and gently use an old toothbrush or paper towel to wipe off the dirt.
If they don’t have paper towels or toothbrushes, they’ll use a clean rag or a cotton swab for throttle body cleaning.
NOTE: Your mechanic will only use a recommended spray to clean the throttle body, avoiding other products like a carburetor cleaner.
Step 5: Reinstall the Parts
Once the throttle body is spotless, they’ll let it dry for five to ten minutes.
Then, they’ll reinstall the air duct (air hose) and fix its hose clamp or bolt. To ensure it’s fixed properly, they’ll tighten it according to the torque specifications in your car’s manual.
Step 6: Reconnect the Car Battery and Test
Finally, the mechanic will reconnect the battery and start your car, allowing it to idle for a few minutes. In the beginning, the engine may stutter as the spray’s residue burns in the combustion chamber, but gradually, this won’t be an issue.
Next, let’s go over the steps for cleaning an electronically-operated throttle body.
How to Clean an Electronically-Operated Throttle Body
Newer cars have an electrical throttle system, where a sensor controls the butterfly valve.
Let’s see how a mechanic will clean it:
Step 1: Follow Steps 1 to 3 From Above
Your mechanic will park the car and locate the throttle body between the air filter (air cleaner) and the intake manifold.
Afterward, they’ll remove the air duct connected to the throttle body.
Step 2: Switch On the Ignition
Then, they’ll turn the key to the “ON” position, which will power your car’s electrical system without starting it.
Once the ignition is on, the mechanic will press the accelerator pedal, triggering the butterfly valve (throttle plate) to open. To ensure it stays open, they’ll use a metal pole or torque wrench to pin down the pedal.
Step 3: Spray the Throttle Body Cleaner
Next, they’ll spray the cleaner onto the throttle body and clean it. They’ll use a paper towel, clean rag, or cotton swab to wipe away the grime accumulated around it.
While wiping away the dirt, they’ll be careful not to harm the wiring of components like the mass airflow and throttle position sensor.
NOTE: Usually, there’s no need to remove the throttle body to clean it, but sometimes, it’s easier to do so. Your mechanic will simply unscrew its bolts to remove it.
Step 4: Switch Off the Car
After thoroughly wiping the throttle body, they’ll turn off the ignition and remove the metal rod that held down the gas pedal.
They’ll let the throttle body dry for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Reinstall the Air Intake Hose and Test
The mechanic will reinstall the air intake hose and crank the engine. They’ll wait to observe if the Check Engine light switches on. If not, then the cleaning process is complete.
But how do you know your throttle body needs cleaning in the first place?
Let’s have a look.
7 Warning Signs You Need to Clean the Throttle Body
A dirty throttle body will exhibit these symptoms:
- Reduced fuel economy
- Delayed acceleration
- Poor engine performance
- Rough idling or stalling
- Inconsistent throttle response
- Electrical issues due to debris and grime buildup on the throttle’s sensors
- A lit check engine light
If the above signs sound familiar, let’s check out your possible costs for fixing the issue.
How Much Does It Cost to Clean a Clogged Throttle Body?
You may have to spend around $170 to $300 to clean the throttle body, depending on your car’s model and local labor costs.
However, if you still notice engine performance issues after cleaning it, your throttle position sensor could be the culprit. Replacing the sensor will cost you an additional $200.
Not convinced enough to spend on the service?
Read further to understand why you shouldn’t ignore a filthy throttle body for long.
Is It Important to Clean the Throttle Body?
Yes, it is.
A clean throttle body ensures the right amount of air mixes with the fuel for ignition. When grime or debris accumulates, it can’t regulate the airflow efficiently.
Without an appropriate air-fuel ratio, your car can run too rich (more fuel, less air), increasing gas consumption. You’ll eventually notice issues like slow acceleration, rough idle, and a lit check engine light.
So, keeping the throttle body clean is essential for your car to run smoothly. And if you’re unsure when to clean it next, we’ve got you covered.
How Often Should You Clean the Throttle Body?
Depending on your vehicle’s fuel type, age, and driving condition, you should clean the throttle body every 25,000 to 90,000 miles. However, you might need a replacement if you notice poor engine performance despite cleaning it.
Normally, a car’s throttle body lasts about 100,000 to 150,000 miles. So, if your car has accumulated enough miles, cleaning the throttle body won’t suffice.
If you’re confused about whether the throttle body needs a thorough cleaning or a full replacement, it’s best to consult a mechanic for expert advice.
Keep the Throttle Body Squeaky Clean with AutoNation Mobile Service
A clogged throttle body can’t regulate airflow for ignition in the combustion chamber, leading to issues like rough idle and misfire. In such a situation, the solution is to clean it.
Don’t want to deal with a dirty throttle body?
Our mechanics from AutoNation Mobile Service can make the throttle body spotless right from your driveway.
We’re a mobile auto repair solution available seven days a week and offering upfront pricing. All our services, including a throttle cable, carburetor, and throttle plate shaft replacement, come with a 12-month | 12,000-mile warranty.
Book an appointment to keep your throttle body and air intake system in top condition.