Throttle Kicker Actuator Repair Service Costs
Basic Cleaning and Adjustment
Labor Time: 1-1.5 hours
Cost Range: $125-$187.50
Includes inspection, cleaning of throttle body, and basic adjustment of the actuator mechanism.
Actuator Replacement
Labor Time: 2-3 hours
Cost Range: $250-$375 (labor only)
Part Cost: $150-$400 depending on vehicle make/model
Total Cost Range: $400-$775
Includes removal of old actuator, installation of new unit, and system calibration.
Complete System Overhaul
Labor Time: 3-4 hours
Cost Range: $375-$500 (labor only)
Parts Cost: $200-$600
Total Cost Range: $575-$1,100
Includes replacement of actuator, throttle body cleaning, sensor replacement, and full system diagnostic.
Note: Prices are estimates based on our standard labor rate of $125/hour. Actual costs may vary depending on vehicle make, model, and year. Additional parts or repairs may be necessary based on diagnostic findings.
Additional Costs to Consider:
- Diagnostic Fee: $125 (applied to repair if work is performed)
- Emergency/Rush Service: Additional 25% surcharge
- Warranty: 12-month/12,000-mile warranty on parts and labor included
Throttle Kicker Actuator Repair Procedures
Electronic Throttle Kicker Actuator
Common Issues:Motor failure, worn gears, electrical connection problems
Repair Steps:
- Diagnostic scan to confirm actuator failure and retrieve error codes
- Remove engine cover and locate the throttle kicker actuator
- Disconnect battery to prevent electrical shorts
- Unplug electrical connectors from the actuator
- Remove mounting bolts and extract actuator
- Clean mounting surface and inspect wiring harness
- Install new actuator and secure mounting bolts
- Reconnect electrical connections
- Perform actuator relearn procedure using diagnostic tool
- Test operation through full range of motion
Hydraulic Throttle Kicker Actuator
Common Issues:Fluid leaks, worn seals, stuck pistons
Repair Steps:
- Verify hydraulic pressure and inspect for visible leaks
- Drain hydraulic fluid from affected system
- Remove actuator mounting hardware
- Disconnect hydraulic lines (catch remaining fluid)
- Remove actuator assembly
- Clean mounting surface and inspect hydraulic lines
- Install new actuator with new seals
- Reconnect hydraulic lines
- Refill system with correct hydraulic fluid
- Bleed air from system
- Test operation and check for leaks
Mechanical Throttle Kicker Actuator
Common Issues:Broken springs, worn linkages, seized pivots
Repair Steps:
- Inspect linkage movement and listen for abnormal noises
- Remove access panels to reach actuator
- Document linkage arrangement (photos recommended)
- Remove retaining clips and pins
- Extract old actuator assembly
- Clean mounting points and lubricate pivot points
- Install new actuator
- Reconnect linkages following documentation
- Verify proper spring tension
- Adjust linkage if necessary
- Test through full range of motion
Important Notes:
- Always refer to manufacturer specifications for torque values and fluid types
- Replace any damaged hardware during reassembly
- Perform calibration procedures when required
- Road test vehicle after repair to ensure proper operation
Note: Repair procedures may vary by vehicle make and model. Always consult vehicle-specific repair manuals for detailed instructions.
Understanding Throttle Kicker Actuators

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Common Failure Symptoms of Throttle Kicker Actuator
Common Signs of Throttle Kicker Actuator Failure & Maintenance Guide
Electronic Throttle Kicker Actuator
Signs of Failure:
- Delayed throttle response
- Check Engine Light illumination
- Irregular idle speed
- Sudden acceleration or deceleration
- Electrical connector corrosion
Service Schedule:
Inspection every 50,000 miles or when symptoms occur. No regular replacement interval unless failure is detected.
Hydraulic Throttle Kicker Actuator
Signs of Failure:
- Fluid leaks around actuator housing
- Sluggish throttle response
- Unusual noise during operation
- Inconsistent throttle pressure
- Visible wear on seals
Service Schedule:
Fluid inspection every 30,000 miles. Seal replacement recommended every 60,000-80,000 miles. Full system flush every 100,000 miles.
Mechanical Throttle Kicker Actuator
Signs of Failure:
- Sticking or binding movement
- Excessive play in linkage
- Metal-on-metal grinding sounds
- Visible wear on components
- Return spring weakness
Service Schedule:
Lubrication and adjustment every 20,000 miles. Inspection of wear components every 40,000 miles. Complete replacement typically needed between 80,000-120,000 miles depending on usage.
Note: These are general guidelines. Actual service intervals may vary based on vehicle make, model, and operating conditions. Always consult your vehicle's manual for specific maintenance schedules.
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.