How to Clean the Throttle Body

The throttle body is essential to a car’s air intake system. Dirty throttle bodies can significantly impact performance if your vehicle runs poorly.

A dirty throttle body can lead to poor acceleration and the check engine light turning on. You may also detect that your car isn’t idling as smoothly as it should.

Remove the Air Ducts

Air Ducts supply air to the throttle body, which controls how much air enters your engine. Over time, these ducts may wear out and need a replacement for your engine to run optimally.

Before removing the air ducts, disconnect their small connecting hoses to the throttle body. These may have clamps that can be easily undone with a screwdriver, or you may have to twist them away from their attachment point.

Once the air ducts are off, you can access and clean your throttle body in your garage. Not only does this improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions from your car, but it makes starting easier and running more smoothly.

Spray the Throttle Body Cleaner

The throttle body is an essential component of an engine, and when it becomes dirty, it can negatively impact performance. This could result in several issues, such as a rough idle, stumbling initial acceleration, or stalling.

To effectively clean a throttle body, spray Throttle Body Cleaner on it. This will help remove dirt, gum, and varnish from the area.

This task is relatively straightforward, and you only need a few supplies. However, this cleaning requires caution and safety; therefore, adhere to all safety precautions before beginning.

WD-40’s Throttle Body, Carb, and Choke Cleaner are designed to simplify this task. This powerful solvent quickly dissolves carbon deposits, gum, varnish, and leaders from around the carburetor and chokes without leaving residue behind.

Clean the Throttle Body

When cars age, it’s easy to overlook the throttle body. But dirty throttle bodies can have severe consequences for performance – from acceleration issues to fuel consumption issues.

Observing your car’s performance while idling lets you tell if your throttle body is dirty. A dirty throttle body could be the issue if it’s challenging to achieve a smooth idle or if the vehicle appears to be running rough.

A throttle body is a valve that allows air into an engine through the gas pedal. It works with several sensors to send data about how much throttle is depressed.

On some older vehicles, the throttle body is manually operated with a cable; however, it’s controlled electronically on others. Before cleaning an electronically controlled throttle body, read your owner’s manual for instructions on how to do so correctly.

Install the Throttle Body

The throttle body is an essential element of the air intake system that controls airflow to the engine. It should be checked regularly for optimal performance and longevity, making it a must-have component in any car.

Over time, the throttle body can become blocked with dirt and carbon deposits which restrict its function. This may lead to rough idling, increased fuel consumption, diminished power output, and more.

Cleaning the throttle body is a straightforward car maintenance task that anyone can do themselves, with no mechanic required. It takes only 10 to 15 minutes and can be done from the convenience of your garage.

Begin by locating the throttle body and removing any air ducts, hoses, or sensors attached to it. Be sure to label each connection so you don’t mix them up later.