What is the throttle body cleaning procedure?
3 Answers
1. First, disconnect the wiring harness connector next to the throttle body, use a hex screwdriver to remove the mounting screws, and then take off the throttle body. 2. Cover the intake port to prevent debris from entering the engine. 3. Spray cleaning agent onto the dirt. Be careful not to spray the cleaning agent outside the throttle body, do not forcefully pry the internal throttle plate, and avoid damaging the adjacent throttle motor. 4. Finally, let it air dry naturally. It is best not to wipe it with a cloth, as this may remove the surface lubricating coating. 5. After reinstalling the throttle body, perform a power reset or throttle body relearn procedure.
I've cleaned the throttle body myself many times, it's quite simple and not worth spending money at the shop. First, park the car and turn off the engine, let it cool for half an hour to avoid burns, then disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent short circuits. Locate the throttle body behind the air filter, it's a metal cylinder. Loosen the connecting pipe and electrical connectors, being careful not to damage fragile components. Spray specialized throttle body cleaner on a soft cloth and gently wipe the internal blades and holes, avoid using a wire brush to prevent scratching the surface. For areas with heavy carbon buildup, spray more cleaner and let it soak for a few minutes before wiping, stubborn stains can be gently scrubbed with an old toothbrush. After cleaning, let it dry for a few minutes to ensure no residue remains, then reassemble everything and reconnect the wires. Start the engine and let it idle for 5 minutes to allow the computer to relearn, this will result in faster throttle response and more stable idle. It's recommended to clean it every 20,000 kilometers to save fuel and prevent shaking issues, doing it yourself takes about an hour and is great value.
Here are the basic steps for cleaning the throttle body. Ensure the engine is cool and disconnect the battery. Remove the intake hose to expose the throttle body, then spray the interior with cleaner, especially the valve area. Use a soft brush to gently remove carbon deposits without damaging the surface. Wipe clean, let it dry, and reassemble. Start the vehicle and let it idle to allow the ECU to adjust parameters. This process can improve fuel efficiency and acceleration performance. For older cars with severe carbon buildup, the effect is more noticeable. Be careful not to over-clean to avoid damaging electronic components. Regular maintenance of this part reduces faults and saves money and hassle. After cleaning, drive for a few days and you’ll notice smoother performance—give it a try and see for yourself.