How to Clean a Toyota's Throttle Body

The throttle body on a Toyota is part of the air intake system. It is designed to regulate the flow of air into the engine through the intake manifold. It is controlled by a cable that runs through the firewall and attaches to the accelerator pedal. As time passes, carbon buildup accumulates inside the throttle body. This buildup can be removed with carburetor cleaning solvent. The throttle body must be removed from the intake manifold in order to clean it thoroughly.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Battery terminal wrench
• 3/8-inch ratchet
• 3/8-inch metric socket set
• Torx screwdriver set
• Flat-head screwdriver
• 1 can carburetor cleaner
• 2 clean shop rags
• Small wire brush
• Throttle body gasket

1. • 1

     Disconnect the negative battery terminal using the battery terminal wrench. Place the car in park and engage the emergency brake.

   • 2

     Loosen the clamps on the air filter and air intake tube with the flat-head screwdriver. Remove the air filter and air intake tube from the vehicle.

   • 3

     Loosen the bolts holding the throttle body to the intake manifold using the 3/8-inch ratchet. Disconnect the throttle cable and unplug all of electrical connectors from the throttle body. Lift the throttle body off of the intake manifold.

   • 4

     Use the torx screwdriver to remove the torx screws that hold the throttle position sensor and idle air control valve in place. Remove both of these electrical components from the throttle body.

   • 5

     Place the bare throttle body on a clean shop rag. Spray it thoroughly with carburetor cleaner. Scrub the carbon off with the wire brush. Dry it completely with another clean shop rag.

   • 6

     Place a new throttle body gasket on the intake manifold. Reverse Steps 1 through 4 in order to complete the procedure. Installation is reverse of removal.