Throttle Body Cleaning Tips [Expert Advice]

Throttle Body Cleaning Tips

If the engine is running rough while idling, it might be from a dirty throttle body. If this is the case, this problem can be solved with a quick cleaning and some simple tools.

Pro Tip: If the throttle body is electronically controlled, do not manually move the throttle body blade since this can throw off its calibration and cause other issues with the engine.

Watch the video below or read on for tips on cleaning the throttle body with help from 1A Auto’s expert mechanics.

Signs the Throttle Body Needs Cleaning

One symptom of a dirty throttle body is a rough running engine on idle. Overdue engine tune ups, bad spark plugs, and other problems can cause an uneven, shaky, or rough running engine while idling that might rev, but usually it’s from a dirty throttle body. Too much carbon can build up on the interior of the throttle body can cause symptoms like rough idling.

How to Clean the Throttle Body Yourself

Steps to clean a throttle body

  1. Locate the Throttle Body and Remove the Air Intake Hose

    Find the throttle body’s location on your vehicle and remove the air duct, air intake hose, or air filter housing from the throttle body. This may require the use of a tool like a Phillips screwdriver or a flat blade screwdriver to loosen a hose clamp.

  2. Spray Carbon Cleaner into the Throttle Body and Clean It

    Spray carbon cleaner into the upper and lower section of the throttle body and let it soak in for a few seconds. Put some carbon cleaner on a clean rag. Insert the rag into the throttle body and clean the top and bottom, removing any carbon build up.

  3. Reinstall the Air Intake

    Connect the air intake tube or other air intake parts to the throttle body, securing the clamp if necessary.

  4. Start the Vehicle

    Test the engine by starting the vehicle. The engine will have a bit of a rough start at first due to the carbon cleaner, but it should smoothen out as the engine runs.

How to Thoroughly Clean the Throttle Body

For a more extensive look on how to clean the throttle body, check out this video. To find repair videos specific to your year, make, and model, visit 1A Auto’s how-to video library.

Fix your vehicle yourself with quality auto parts at 1aauto.com

Shop Parts Featured in This Article

Featured Content

Summary
Throttle Body Cleaning Tips - Expert DIY Advice - 1A Auto
Article Name
Throttle Body Cleaning Tips - Expert DIY Advice - 1A Auto
Description
If the engine is rough idling and the throttle body has too much carbon build up and needs cleaning, our experts will show you how.
Author
Publisher Name
1A Auto
Publisher Logo

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *