What is a Throttle Body and Where is it Located?

The throttle body is part of the air intake system. It controls the flow of air to the engine, which controls engine power and speed. It is positioned between the air intake hose and the intake manifold. When you step on your car’s accelerator pedal, a butterfly valve in the throttle opens to allow more air into the intake manifold - hence the phrase "wide open throttle." The fuel injection system then adds more fuel to match the increased volume of air. When the pedal returns to the top position, the butterfly valve closes and effectively chokes off, or “throttles”, the air flow. So in reality, you could call the gas pedal the air pedal. 

In older vehicles, the throttle valve was controlled directly by a cable that was attached to the accelerator. These days, throttle bodies are electronically controlled by the vehicle’s computer. The computer sends a signal to an electric motor to open the throttle valve. Still, the principle remains the same - open up the throttle to let more air in and go faster.

How do I Know if my Throttle Body Assembly Needs to be Replaced?

Problems with the throttle body assembly result in the throttle letting in too much or too little air. Too much air causes engine surging and rough idling. Too little air causes slow or uneven acceleration and sometimes stalling. Throttle body problems can also decrease your fuel mileage. 

The throttle body can become clogged up with carbon buildup from engine exhaust, and any dirt that slips past your air filter. Often you can solve this problem by cleaning the throttle body assembly with a solvent. It is also possible for the throttle valve to gradually wear out the throttle body. The space that gets worn out then lets more air through. 

Some throttle body problems result from problems with the throttle body motor. The motor might become jammed in an open or closed position. Sometimes the motor's electrical contacts develop buildup or get worn and act as though the throttle is wide open or fully closed when it is not. This can result in many of the symptoms mentioned above. In some cases where the motor is the root of the problem, you can replace the motor alone.

Can I Replace a Throttle Body Assembly Myself?

A do-it-yourselfer with some previous experience can certainly replace a throttle body assembly. First, you need to separate the air intake hose from the car or truck’s throttle body. Then you will need to remove any other hoses from the throttle body. Next, remove sensors like the idle air control valve and throttle position sensor. If the throttle is controlled by a cable, separate the cable. If your vehicle is equipped with electronic throttle control (ETC) technology rather than the aforementioned mechanical linkage, disconnect the wiring harness from the throttle body motor. Unbolt the throttle body from the intake manifold.

Before you install the new throttle body, thoroughly clean the mounting area and install a new gasket. Then, simply reverse the above steps to install the new throttle body. You can test the new throttle body by starting the engine and listening for smooth, even idling. Then, in park or neutral, rev the engine and check for a smooth response. Some vehicles may have a learning procedure that will automatically begin when the vehicle is started, others may need to be calibrated by an external computer or scan tool. 

Need a Throttle Body Replacement?

A gasoline internal combustion engine requires a balanced air/fuel ratio in order to function properly. The basic function of the throttle body assembly is to control the amount of air that flows into the intake manifold. The fuel injection system reacts to this increase in the volume of air by adding more fuel to match it. So, needless to say, the throttle body is an important part of your car or truck. If it has been damaged or is no longer functioning properly, many issues can occur due to the imbalances in the ratio that are caused as a result. Thankfully, 1A Auto carries a large selection of aftermarket throttle body assemblies for many makes and models, and at great prices. Our replacement throttle body assemblies are just what you need to get your vehicle running great again! We also carry other parts for your throttle body as well, including motors, gaskets, position sensors and more!

At 1A Auto, we also make shopping for a replacement throttle body assembly for your car, truck, SUV or van easy - we're here to help you select the right parts for your vehicle! Call our customer service toll free at 888-844-3393 if you have any questions about our aftermarket throttle body assemblies, warranty, compatibility or to purchase, or you can buy online.