Warning Signs of a Failing Throttle Body Assembly:
- Rough idling or stalling, especially at stoplights
- Hesitation or poor acceleration when pressing the gas pedal
- Check Engine Light is on (often with codes related to throttle position or air intake)
- Engine surging or fluctuating RPMs
- Reduced fuel economy
How to Test If This Part Is the Problem:
- Visual Inspection: Check for dirt, carbon buildup, or damage around the throttle plate.
- Throttle Plate Movement: Manually move the throttle plate. It should move smoothly and return to its closed position without sticking.
- Scan for Codes: Use an OBD2 scanner to check for trouble codes related to the throttle body, throttle position sensor (TPS), or mass airflow (MAF) sensor.
- Voltage Test: Use a multimeter to test the voltage signals from the TPS. Compare the readings to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Cleaning: Sometimes, cleaning the throttle body can resolve issues caused by carbon buildup. If cleaning helps, but the problem returns quickly, the throttle body may be failing internally.
Common Failure Causes:
- Carbon buildup restricting airflow
- Electrical failure of the throttle position sensor (TPS) or throttle actuator motor
- Physical damage to the throttle plate or housing
- Wear and tear over time