What to Do When the Car Throttle Body Gets Waterlogged
2 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 unstable idling, use an automotive diagnostic scanner to perform throttle body adaptation.
I'm an experienced mechanic who has dealt with numerous cases of water entering the throttle body. This is quite common, especially when driving through water after heavy rain. First, you must immediately turn off the engine and never attempt to restart it, as water in the engine compartment can lead to hydro-lock, potentially causing severe damage like cylinder scoring or bent connecting rods, which would cost a fortune to repair. Then, check the throttle body's position to identify where the water came from—whether it's from driving through deep puddles or due to poor hood sealing. If the situation is minor, you can remove the intake pipe, wipe the throttle body and intake tract clean with a dry cloth, let them dry, and then try starting again. However, if there's a significant amount of water or the check engine light is on, it's best to tow the car to a professional repair shop for inspection with specialized tools, followed by cleaning or part replacement if necessary. Additionally, regular maintenance like cleaning carbon buildup from the throttle body can reduce the risk of water ingress. When driving through water, never push your luck—if the water level exceeds the midpoint of the wheel hub, take a detour. Safety always comes first.
