What are the effects of not cleaning the throttle body?
2 Answers
If the throttle body is not cleaned, it can lead to increased fuel consumption, increased carbon deposits, abnormal idling vibrations or fluctuations in the vehicle, and over time, it may even prevent the engine from starting. If symptoms such as unstable idling, difficulty starting, or the engine not running smoothly after starting occur, accompanied by noticeable vibrations, the throttle body should be cleaned promptly. Below are some relevant details: 1. The function of the throttle body: Simply put, the throttle body is a controllable valve that regulates the amount of air entering the engine. It is located between the air filter and the intake manifold. Its primary role is to adjust the volume of air entering the engine. The depth of pressing the accelerator pedal directly affects the cleanliness of the throttle body, which in turn impacts idling, power performance, and other related factors. 2. The necessity of cleaning the throttle body: Over time, dirt and grime inevitably accumulate on the throttle body. If the buildup is excessive, it can restrict airflow into the engine, leading to issues such as engine vibrations, sluggish acceleration, and increased fuel consumption. Therefore, it is advisable to clean the throttle body periodically to ensure the engine maintains optimal performance.
Having run an auto repair shop for decades, I've seen numerous vehicles develop issues due to untimely throttle body cleaning. When this component gets dirty, it restricts engine airflow, directly causing unstable idling and noticeable vehicle shaking—especially when stopped at traffic lights. Additionally, acceleration response becomes sluggish, with a perceptible lack of power when pressing the gas pedal, accompanied by steadily increasing fuel consumption that can add several liters per few hundred kilometers. Prolonged neglect leads to incomplete engine combustion, emitting more exhaust pollutants and potentially clogging the catalytic converter—a costly repair. I always advise drivers to inspect their throttle bodies every 20,000 kilometers. A quick spray with specialized cleaner does the trick, preventing long-term damage to engine components like valves or sensors that drive up repair costs. Regular maintenance not only saves money but also ensures smoother, safer vehicle operation.