What Causes Weak Throttle Response After Vehicle Wading?
2 Answers
Due to water ingress causing damage to sensors or electronic control mechanisms around the engine. Below is relevant information about the throttle: Introduction: The throttle, also known as the "air valve" or "throttle valve," refers to the control device that regulates engine power. In piston aircraft engines, the throttle controls the carburetor's throttle valve opening to regulate cylinder filling volume, thereby determining engine output power. Causes and Solutions for Throttle Abnormal Noises: Carbon buildup in the throttle causing sticking requires throttle cleaning; wear of the throttle pedal support pin can be resolved by applying grease; poor installation of throttle cable (for electronic throttles, inspect the throttle pedal mechanism and throttle pedal sensor).
Last time my car went through deep water, the throttle became extremely weak, and it took me a while to figure out why. If water rushes into the exhaust pipe and blocks the catalytic converter, the exhaust gets trapped inside. The more severe the blockage, the harder it is for the engine to breathe, causing it to roar without moving when you press the throttle. If the air filter gets soaked, it’s even worse—the engine feels like someone’s pinching its nose, starving for air and messing up the air-fuel mixture. In severe cases, water might even enter the cylinders, causing the engine to stall. In such situations, there’s only one solution—shut off the engine immediately and call for a tow. Trying to restart it could lead to severe engine damage like cylinder scoring, requiring a major overhaul.
