How often does the throttle need to be cleaned?
2 Answers
The throttle needs to be cleaned every 20,000 kilometers. The throttle is a controllable valve that regulates the air entering the engine. There are two types: traditional cable-operated and electronic throttles. After the air enters the intake pipe, it mixes with gasoline to form a combustible mixture, which then burns to perform work. It is connected to the air filter at the top and the engine block at the bottom. The throttle control mechanism in traditional engines operates via a cable or rod, with one end connected to the accelerator pedal and the other to the throttle linkage plate. Electronic throttles primarily use a throttle position sensor to control the throttle opening angle based on the engine's energy requirements, thereby regulating the amount of air intake.
I've been driving for decades, let's talk about throttle body cleaning frequency. Generally speaking, it should be cleaned every 30,000 kilometers, especially in urban areas with frequent stop-and-go driving. Dust in the air and engine oil recirculation can form carbon deposits on the throttle valve flaps, which over time affects air intake volume. If not cleaned, symptoms like unstable idling, increased fuel consumption, or even starting difficulties may occur. For my own car, I check it every two years or so - if significant carbon buildup is found, I'll get it cleaned professionally for a few hundred yuan. After cleaning, the engine immediately runs much smoother. From experience, driving conditions are crucial; highway driving produces less carbon buildup, allowing cleaning intervals up to 40,000 km, but don't be too lazy to avoid major repairs. Regular maintenance saves money and gives peace of mind - don't wait until the warning light comes on to panic.
