Throttle Body Service & Repair Costs
The cost of throttle body repairs can vary depending on the specific issue and vehicle model. Here's a breakdown of common throttle body services:
Throttle Body Cleaning
Average Cost:$125 - $175
Includes professional cleaning service using specialized chemicals and tools. Typically takes 1-1.5 hours at our shop rate of $125/hour.
Throttle Body Replacement
Average Cost:$375 - $850
Labor typically runs 2-3 hours ($250-$375) plus parts costs ($125-$475 depending on vehicle make and model).
Throttle Position Sensor Replacement
Average Cost:$200 - $400
Usually requires 1-1.5 hours of labor ($125-$187.50) plus parts ($75-$212.50).
Throttle Cable Adjustment/Replacement
Average Cost:$125 - $250
Simple adjustments typically take 1 hour ($125). Full cable replacement may take up to 2 hours ($250) including parts.
Note: These are estimated costs based on our standard shop rate of $125/hour. Actual costs may vary depending on your specific vehicle and the extent of repairs needed. We always provide detailed estimates before beginning any work.
Additional Costs to Consider:
- Diagnostic fees (typically 1 hour: $125)
- Additional parts if required
- Emergency or after-hours service may incur additional charges
Replacement Procedures
When dealing with the replacement or repair of a throttle body in a vehicle, several components and steps are typically involved. The throttle body is a crucial part of the air intake system, controlling the amount of air entering the engine. Here's what is generally included in the process:1. Diagnosis:A thorough diagnosis is performed to confirm that the throttle body is the source of the problem. This involves using diagnostic tools to read error codes from the vehicle's computer and performing visual inspections.
2. Removal of the Throttle Body:If replacement or repair is necessary, the throttle body must be removed. This involves disconnecting the battery, removing any air intake hoses or ducts, and disconnecting electrical connectors and throttle cables or linkages.
3. Cleaning:In some cases, the throttle body may just need cleaning rather than replacement. Carbon deposits and dirt can accumulate, affecting performance. A specialized throttle body cleaner is used to remove these deposits.
4. Inspection:Once removed, the throttle body is inspected for damage or excessive wear. This includes checking the throttle plate, shaft, and any sensors or actuators attached to the throttle body.
5. Replacement:If the throttle body is damaged or worn beyond repair, it is replaced with a new or remanufactured unit. This involves installing the new throttle body and reconnecting all hoses, cables, and electrical connectors.
6. Calibration and Relearning:After installation, the throttle body may need to be calibrated or relearned by the vehicle's computer. This ensures that the throttle body operates correctly with the engine control unit (ECU).
7. Testing:The vehicle is tested to ensure that the throttle body is functioning properly. This includes checking for smooth operation, proper idle speed, and the absence of error codes.
8. Additional Parts:Depending on the vehicle and the extent of the repair, additional parts such as gaskets, seals, or sensors may also be replaced during the process. Overall, the repair or replacement of a throttle body involves careful diagnosis, precise mechanical work, and electronic calibration to ensure optimal vehicle performance.
What is a Throttle Body and what does it do
The throttle body is a crucial component of a vehicle's air intake system. It is typically located between the air filter and the intake manifold. The primary function of the throttle body is to regulate the amount of air that flows into the engine. This regulation is essential for maintaining the proper air-fuel mixture, which is necessary for efficient combustion and engine performance.Here's a more detailed explanation of its components and functions:
1. Throttle Plate/Butterfly Valve:The central part of the throttle body is the throttle plate, also known as the butterfly valve. This is a flat, circular metal plate that pivots on a shaft. When the driver presses the accelerator pedal, the throttle plate opens, allowing more air to enter the engine. Conversely, releasing the pedal closes the plate, reducing airflow.
2. Throttle Position Sensor (TPS):This sensor is attached to the throttle body and monitors the position of the throttle plate. It sends data to the engine control unit (ECU) to help determine the correct amount of fuel to inject, ensuring optimal engine performance and efficiency.
3. Idle Air Control Valve (IAC):In some vehicles, the throttle body includes an idle air control valve, which helps maintain a steady engine idle speed by allowing a small amount of air to bypass the throttle plate when it is closed.
4. Electronic Throttle Control (ETC):In modern vehicles, the throttle body is often part of an electronic throttle control system, also known as "drive-by-wire." Instead of a direct mechanical link between the accelerator pedal and the throttle plate, sensors and electronic actuators control the throttle position. This system allows for more precise control of the throttle and can improve fuel efficiency and emissions.
5. Airflow Metering:The throttle body works in conjunction with other sensors, such as the mass airflow sensor (MAF) or manifold absolute pressure sensor (MAP), to measure the amount of air entering the engine. This information is used by the ECU to adjust fuel delivery and ignition timing.Overall, the throttle body plays a vital role in engine management by controlling airflow, which directly affects engine power, efficiency, and emissions. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the throttle body, can help ensure it functions properly and prolongs the life of the engine.
How do I know I need to replace my Throttle Body
Throttle Body: Signs of Failure and Maintenance Guide
Common Signs of Throttle Body Failure
Check Engine Light
One of the first indicators of throttle body issues is an illuminated check engine light, often accompanied by trouble codes P0121, P0122, or P0123.
Rough Idle
Your vehicle may experience irregular or rough idling, with RPMs fluctuating unpredictably while stationary.
Poor Acceleration
The car might hesitate or stumble during acceleration, or fail to respond properly to throttle input.
Stalling
Unexpected stalling, especially when coming to a stop or when the engine is warming up, can indicate throttle body problems.
Maintenance Schedule
Regular Cleaning
Professional throttle body cleaning is recommended every 75,000 miles or when symptoms of carbon buildup appear.
Inspection Schedule
• Visual inspection every 30,000 miles
• Electronic throttle position sensor testing during routine diagnostics
• Check for carbon buildup during regular tune-ups
Preventative Maintenance
Using high-quality fuel and maintaining clean air filters can help prevent premature throttle body issues.
Important Note: These intervals are general guidelines. Actual maintenance needs may vary based on:
- Vehicle make and model
- Driving conditions
- Climate
- Driving habits
Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for manufacturer-specific maintenance schedules and recommendations.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
