How Often Should the Throttle Body of a Tenth-Generation Accord Be Cleaned?
2 Answers
Throttle bodies generally need cleaning every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers, but there is no strict standard; they can be cleaned when they get dirty. If there is oil or carbon buildup in the car's throttle body, it is necessary to promptly visit the car's 4S store or a repair shop to clean the throttle body. Below are the specific reasons for a dirty throttle body and the precautions to take when it is dirty: Specific reasons for a dirty throttle body: A clogged intake tract can cause idle fluctuations, and carbon buildup or oil in the throttle body is the most common cause of unstable idle. Carbon buildup in the throttle body can affect its opening degree and the intake air volume, causing the engine speed to fluctuate erratically after a cold start, accompanied by strong vibrations. Precautions for a dirty throttle body: Severe oil or carbon buildup in the throttle body, including a dirty intake tract, can make the car difficult to start in cold weather. A dirty throttle body requires cleaning, and throttle body cleaning is considered a routine maintenance task. Spark plugs can also accumulate carbon deposits, which can be cleaned to restore their activity.
I've been driving my own 10th-generation Accord for almost three years now, and I've consistently cleaned the throttle body every 30,000 kilometers or so—it's been quite practical. Driving slowly in the city with frequent stops at traffic lights leads to rapid carbon buildup. Over time, you'll notice the throttle feels heavier, acceleration slows down, and sometimes the idle even shakes a bit. After each cleaning, the car feels like it has a brand-new engine—throttle response becomes sharp, and fuel consumption drops slightly. I recommend mentioning it during maintenance; technicians usually use spray cleaners, which are simple and inexpensive. If you frequently drive in congested areas or dusty environments, it's best to check at 25,000 kilometers to prevent minor issues from turning into major problems. Keep an eye on sluggish acceleration when the AC is on, and address it promptly—it’s safer and more worry-free.
