What to Do If the Throttle Body Gets Waterlogged?
3 Answers
Slowly remove the waterlogged throttle body. Use a machine to blow dry the wet parts or wait for them to air dry naturally. Reassemble the dried throttle body. If you notice irregular idle speed fluctuations, use an automotive computer diagnostic tool to perform a throttle body adaptation.
A couple of days ago, I drove through a deep puddle and got a bit of water in the throttle body, which really scared me. I immediately turned off the engine and parked in a safe spot, then opened the hood to check if the air intake was wet. I didn't dare start the engine again because I was afraid water might get sucked in and damage it. I quickly called a tow truck to take the car to the repair shop. The mechanic used an air gun to thoroughly dry the throttle body and sensors, and also checked the electronic components for any corrosion. Luckily, since I acted fast, there was no major damage, but it still cost me a few hundred bucks in repairs. Since then, I've been extra careful about water depth when driving and never force my way through flooded roads. This incident reminded me how important regular maintenance is—cleaning the air filter can help reduce risks. If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, don’t try to start the car recklessly. Safety first—call the professionals for help.
I remember one rainy season when water got into the throttle body while driving. As someone who enjoys DIY repairs, I first tried to fix it myself. I turned off the engine, disconnected the battery, and carefully removed the intake pipe to find water traces, which I wiped dry with a cloth. Then, I used a hairdryer on low speed to dry the components thoroughly. After everything was completely dry, I reassembled it and tested the car—it started but ran unevenly, so I immediately drove to a repair shop for a detailed fix. They recommended installing a snorkel to prevent future issues and advised avoiding flooded roads to save on repair costs. DIY can save some money but carries risks—if sensors or seals get damaged, it could lead to bigger problems. For prevention, it’s good to learn wading techniques like driving slowly to avoid splashing water. Regular maintenance to keep the intake system clean and unclogged is also essential.
