How often should the car throttle be replaced?
3 Answers
Generally, it should be replaced every 50,000 kilometers or 3 years. Steps to replace the throttle: 1. Exhaust: Open the engine compartment, slowly unscrew the expansion tank cap to release the air in the cooling system, preparing for the later removal of the preheating hose on the throttle. 2. Remove the air filter box assembly: Open the co-pilot seat, use a ten-T wrench to remove the screws fixing the air box assembly, then use a cross screwdriver to loosen the buckle connecting the intake bellows to the throttle, pull off the bellows, and take out the air box assembly. 3. Disconnect the wiring harness and throttle cable: Unplug the idle speed motor sensor and throttle position sensor connectors on the throttle, and remove the throttle cable on the throttle. 4. Remove the throttle: Use pliers to first remove the two hose clamps on the throttle, then use a 10T wrench to remove the four screws on the throttle, use pliers to pull off the hoses, and take out the old throttle. 5. Install the new throttle: After removing the hoses, immediately install them on the new throttle to minimize the outflow of antifreeze, use pliers to clamp the hose clamps, install the four screws fixing the throttle, install the throttle cable, and plug in the connectors. 6. Match with special equipment: Nowadays, after replacing the throttle, the car needs to be matched. Use special equipment to reset all adaptive values to zero, clear the computer memory, match successfully, install the air box assembly, test drive normally, and the throttle is successfully replaced.
Many friends have asked me how often the throttle body should be replaced. Honestly, the throttle body isn't a part that needs regular replacement. It's mainly a valve that controls engine air intake. Over time, carbon buildup can cause it to stick, leading to unstable idling or shaky acceleration. My advice is to just clean it regularly—like getting it professionally cleaned every 20,000 to 40,000 kilometers, which only costs around 100-200 yuan. Replacement should only be considered if it's truly broken, such as when carbon deposits are too thick to remove by cleaning or if the valve is worn or cracked. Most cars can go over 100,000 kilometers without needing a replacement. Don’t fall for unnecessary frequent replacements—it’s just a waste of money. Have it checked during routine maintenance to save hassle and costs while avoiding breakdown risks. Making a habit of cleaning it will keep your car running smoother and extend the engine’s lifespan.
I usually enjoy researching these things while driving, and throttle body replacement depends on driving habits. If you often encounter stop-and-go traffic in the city, carbon deposits can easily accumulate, leading to throttle body issues. I once experienced severe engine shaking at idle in my own car, and upon inspection, it turned out the throttle body was dirty—cleaning it fixed the problem without needing a replacement. Generally, the cleaning interval is every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers, using specialized cleaning sprays at a repair shop. Replacement is only necessary for severe issues like valve deformation or control failure, which might occur after 100,000 kilometers or more. Never attempt to disassemble it yourself, as it’s easy to damage the wiring. Preheating the engine for a few minutes before driving can also reduce carbon buildup—develop good habits. In short, focus more on cleaning and maintenance rather than replacement.
