Be careful cleaning your throttle body! - Check Engine Light

I cleaned the throttle body for my 2010 Chevy Equinox and caused more issues than I bargained for. After putting it back on, my check engine light turned on with code P0223, which is triggered when the voltage output from the Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch to the PCM is too high.
I also got messages "Service Stabilitrak" and "Reduced Engine Power", and it wouldn't accelerate past 25mph, so it was practically undriveable.
For the 2010 model year the TPS sensor isn't serviceable so I had to put on a whole new throttle body assembly.
Personally, I recommend leaving the throttle body attached to the car when cleaning it. This won't give you a deep clean, but it might prevent the possibility of needing a new assembly. Apparently on newer models you CAN replace the TPS, but if you have a 2010/2011 GM you might not be able to.

[@jimlively6884]

In all reality. After being a mechanic for 32 yrs. I have never taken one of these off to clean it. Do it on the vehicle. DO NOT OPEN IT WITH YOUR HAND. Turn the key on have someone push the pedal to the floor and hold it while you clean it. When you open it manually it throws it out of calibration. I am A.S.E. Certified mechanic for 32 yrs .

[@galtha58-trannybear14]

Could that issue be resolved if one cleared the codes after done with the job? Let the ECM start back from scratch and recalibrate itself? I also wonder if I were to unplug the TPS before cleaning it if that would avoid creating the issue in the first place? Guessing that spraying cleaner on a rag and using the rag to clean the throttle body would be safer than spraying the cleaner into the body where it might seep into the TPS or get into the engine and cause a problem. What do you think?

[@jimlively6884]

@@galtha58-trannybear14 not exactly. Once the computer knows a problem it picks the code back up once you turn the key on. When the throttle body has been out of calibration it's out for good. Even unhooking the battery doesn't help. It's still gonna be there. Only replacing it is the cure. Some times the dealer say they can recalibrate it but don't think they do.

[@douglasbollinger3626]

Jim, how do you open the flap on a PUSH-BUTTON start 2016 Hyundai Elantra with the 1.8L 4 cylinder engine? I went to accessory mode and had someone press the gas pedal and it won't open. I couldn't get it to open unless the engine was running.

[@jimlively6884]

@@douglasbollinger3626 try holding the accelerater down then push the button. Just don't let it start. If that doesn't work. Then it's programed to only come open when running. If that's the case just start it have some one inside opening it just a little off idle then spray in short small burst. May have to clear codes if any set.

[@douglasbollinger3626]

@@jimlively6884 I will try that, thank you. I appreciate the help and reply!

[@markricherzhagen4026]

After viewing the video and reading a ton of comments(thank you all!), I can say the following worked fine for me: After removing the TB, I sprayed paper toweling with cleaner and carefully wiped the majority of gunk off. There was a LOT. I got up against the throttle plate but did not move it. I then used a small screwdriver to get the sprayed paper towel right to the edge of the throttle plate. No need to use a lot of pressure - just go over it multiple times and change paper towel when it gets dirty. I did spray a bit of the cleaner right onto the throttle body at each end of the throttle plate pivot. A LITTLE BIT, not soaked. Also keep the electrical side UP so the cleaner doesn't run into it. Finally, after holding it up to the light I could see a few little bits of dirt between the throttle plate and the wall of the TB. I got some regular paper (needs to be stiffer than paper towel), and ripped off a piece (the ripped side was thinner than the regular paper width) and carefully slipped it in the gap, then moved it around taking out those little bits of dirt in the gap. With all your warnings and advice this went very easy - I do believe the gentle and easy approach that takes a little more time will save you a lot of headaches.

[@AndysAccessories]

Thank you thank you!! I only work in my car out of financial necessity. I’d much rather take it to a mechanic. So I do research on line watch videos then get to work. Nobody except you warned me of this. Thank you again. If this was a year ago I cannot imagine the cost today with parts being so costly right now.

[@alancuriel123456]

I love my cable operated throttle body. No headaches!

[@ketale3365]

if you are going to take of your throttle position sensor, you HAVE TO disconnect the battery! either way you have an electric throttle or cable...

[@thurm101]

You can do that with a NON ELECTRONIC throttle body.

[@pecschailert3428]

Alan V yeah

[@Chickenassable]

I'll take a Bosch E-TB over a cable throttle any time any day. I dont drive or use American cars. Had every major make. They are trash.

[@davesendit1348]

86 f150, cables, no problem👍🏼. I’ve cleaned in and put it back together a boom it’s fine

[@mattjones78]

Simple, don’t push or play around with the butterfly valve (round plate inside) too much as it can knock it off a tooth or two on the gearing inside the black cover, which on that one you CAN remove and reset it as it’s held on with four clips. The sealed units you cannot open. So when cleaning the throttle body just don’t move the valve plate too much.

[@joepuszakowski9052]

I removed the clips I could not lift tps more than a millimeter or two

[@kathys9999]

very kind of you to warn people!

[@coolbema]

always remove the negative terminal from battery and then dismanttle the throttle body. I did many times on my cars even BMW E60 2009 removed whole throttle body cleaned with Wurth throttle cleaner using soft brush to remove debris from edges and links connected back and no problems later on. Just make sure not to push metal plate with fingers instead use soft brush and cotton cloth.

[@WorldWithoutBorder]

May be the sensor needs to relearn after cleaning it. This was what I did on my GMC Acadia. Turn on the key without engine start, wait after 60 seconds. I normally look at the seat belt light blinking 60 times then it stops, turn off the key. Turn it back on without engine start again, then off.

[@murphykurphy2620]

Thanks. It's seemingly never as simple as one would think. I've been watching vids on cleaning TBs and it seemed like there had to be something to be careful of. Greatly appreciate the info.

[@rabbitLifelove]

It is serviceable all you have to do is open the 4 clips and reset the TPS back to zero to match the position of the throttle

[@Eric0778]

So there's 4 clips on the TPS?

[@krishnapaudel7423]

How to reset the TPS back to zero to match the position of the throttle???

[@hnguye22]

There is repair kit. Just pop out four clips on the side. Make sure the sensor is at 9 o'clock position. Adjust with a flat head screw drive. Install the replacement. DO NOT DISTURB the plastic gear. Handle with care. Install the unit. Hope this help.

[@alexrothschild5044]

Do you have a link for the repair kit?

[@octavio152]

1. Key on, engine off. 2. Depress accelerator pedal 3. Verify throttle is open 4. Disconnect tps 5. Unbolt and clean your throttle body, will work on most drive by wire throttle body but it's best to look at the actual procedure because most cars have their own way.

[@Kingdingaling75]

Step 1: disconnect battery. Step 2: turn on headlights to eliminate residual electricity. Step 3: clean throttle butterfly valve without removing it from engine. Step 4: connect battery. Step 5: start engine. No reprogramming required.

[@junglejuice23]

Some need to be reprogrammed

[@dalemettee1147]

When opening the butterfly valve open and closed, you must be careful not to open it too fast. Handling this unit should be with caution and moved gently. Too much cleaner can get where it shouldn't go.

[@montydaniels1054]

Wow, good advise. I can remember spraying some sort of cleaner into the air intake, which caused the engine to throttle up so high, the engine threw a rod. That was back when it only cost a grand to have the engine rebuilt & installed. So I'm really careful when I buy stuff that's supposed to be sprayed into the intake....

[@charlesjuett7445]

That was most likely starting fluid not cleaner

[@rowanparmiter7622]

Yikes scary

[@skye2211]

To anyone with a 2007-2008 Toyota Yaris, if you just cleaned your throttle body and your check engine light comes on, just turn your key to the on position but don’t crank the engine. Leave it there for 30 seconds and then take the key back out and then crank your car. It resets it

[@soniarican6275]

I made that mistake and had to Buy a new one 😭🤦🏽‍♀️ clearing the code just temporarily fixes the issue I suggest having a mechanic put on the new one so they can program it , unless you have a scanner that resets the TPS don’t replace it yourself ! Lesson Learned 😂👍🏽

[@chris-rfs]

Good info,needless to say i do clean the throttle body but while it is still in the engine. The other thing to remember is to make sure the ignition is off or better still,disconnect the battery. Make sure also that the throttle body is dry before reconnecting etc. And yes,the old throttle bodies were better and you could repair them.I think maybe car makers went to far with an electronically controlled throttle plate,totally unnecessary.

[@MIKEMARBLES]

SMFH! Thank you...At least you taught us through the error of our mistakes.. I'm now dealing with an high idle issue

[@leejones3155]

How do we fix this issue? Any ideas?

[@trevorreid4180]

Mine also iddling high on my chevrolet captiva 2.4lt petrol after cleaning must I buy a new throttle body need help please

[@straightto8]

I just took mine off my Dodge Charger and cleaned it, knew not to get any cleaner in or in the ECM, used a tooth brush, clean rag to clean it, new gasket, no issues. Had a heater hose start leaking two days after the fact, now I got a check engine light from it overheating a bit this morning, argh!! Not one thing it’s another.

[@GymChess]

Just clean it without removing it. I did so this afternoon on my car. All I did was pull off the hose and sprayed a lot of electronic cleaner on the plate. Actually, it's placed in such a way on my car model that you'll have to do it blindly. That's why I used a third of the spray can. It dried out almost instantly which is why electronic cleaner is a good choice in my opinion. I did actually notice a difference. The car became more responsive. It probably wasn't particularly dirty in the first place. After 100+ thousand miles it doesn't hurt to clean it anyway.

[@wilsonrawlin8547]

You can remove and clean your TB/ETM. Just disconnect the battery before you remove it. Un plug the TB before removing it from the intake. Use TB cleaner and don't dunk it in a parts cleaner tank and you will be fine. I've taken them apart to even clean the solenoid and contact surfaces on the electronic control components. Do not use TB cleaner on the electronics, PCBs, etc.

[@SilverBullet93GT]

just a suggestion : after gently cleaning the tb with the battery disconnected, dry it off completely, then remove battery leads and safely connect them together to drain pcm completely - reinstall everything - start car and idle for 15 min so it relearns base idle - turn engine off, then start again for 5 min - go for a non excessive drive, to relearn shift points edit: use correct tb cleaner, maybe plastic tb cleaner is best suited, or electronic components cleaner

[@johnhoy7756]

Thanks for the warning. I made the same mistake sadly -- always pays to do research first

[@nfdayap]

John Hoy hey there, what happened to your car when u made this misktake? like did the car jerks while driving? does it idle roughly?

[@johnhoy7756]

@@nfdayap The car wouldnt idle correctly. When the body is off the car do not touch the butterfly as it upsets the sensor

[@jakejones5736]

@@johnhoy7756 How, exactly, does it upset it? The sensor does nothing more than sense the position of the throttle plate.

[@johnhoy7756]

@@jakejones5736 not sure mate. It wasnt the same after I messed with it. Have a look at the video -- might explain things clearer

[@ronfreeman2012]

Some have plastic gears if you open that butterfly it can strip,break or throw off that throttle body. Have to be careful and if your lucky it will relearn its place. I learned this the expensive hard way

[@rburton34]

Since is electric and not cable, you should not open and close the plate by hand when cleaning. You can open/close it if controlled by cable only.

[@mikelarry8704]

So what happens if you do?

[@johnbrasher1495]

@@mikelarry8704 Same thing that happened in this video! To open the TB flap for cleaning on an electrically-controlled TB, have someone depress the accelerator pedal (WITHOUT ;engine running) or wedge the pedal down. This will open the TB flap and you can then clean the opening, the flap and behind the flap, wiping away crud with a clean soft cloth. Use TB cleaner only. Then let dry for about a minute. NEVER force the flap open on an electrically-controlled TB. If you do, you'll need a new TB like this guy did, or at least a new TPS. He obviously doesn't even know what he did wrong or should've done right. Also, the guy in the vid probably did not need to replace the TPS, just the TB. He could've undone the 4 clips holding the TPS on and moved it to the new TB.

[@plantmanstudios]

@@johnbrasher1495 thanks and you should make a video about that!! This is what happens when you watch a video on car repair on KZbin they always leave out HUGE MASSIVE CRITICAL details that can ruin your parts or car. One day I'm going to make car repair videos and I'm going to do a professional job about it. I know you know. Car repair is an exact science. One thing done wrong causes the car to fail.

[@MrFatalfurry]

just disconnect the battery terminals before removing the part you wont have to reset the check engine light

[@-_Michael]

You could also use the electric motor cleaner, it wont mess with the sensors and costs roughly the same as the throttle body cleaner. It cleaned the same and I didnt have a problem after I finished cleaning it and reinstalling it back on my 07 Ram.

[@DonziGT230]

Removing the throttle body won't cause codes. After cleaning a really gunked up TB you change the amount of air it can flow at idle position and can cause the computer to think something's wrong. Disconnecting the battery clears the computer's memory and forces the computer to relearn the idle and can cure any symptoms. Also note that some GM cars have specific 'idle re-learn' steps you have to take. It's possible to get some cleaner into the sensor area of the TB and cause problems. As for it not being serviceable, false. There's even a kit where you replace just the sensor portion of the TB for about $30 which would have probably fixed Dan's car.

[@aacuna4420]

I did the same. Didn’t go past 25 mph. Looked up the re-learn and it worked. There’s a quick idle re learn. Closed and open relearn

[@girlmastergeneral]

Came here to say this very thing. I just bought one and put it in!

[@Sachinsk03]

Best Comment. I have experienced this.

[@Sachinsk03]

Sir Please Help. I have Chevrolet Aveo UV-A. Last time I did a cleaning with a good quality spray. Now my car's engine Ideling is uneven. Sometime engine stalls at trafic signal while accelerating. I fear the cleaning had damaged the electronic TB, Trottle position Sensors. And as per my knowledge TB is very costly. Does calibrating TB require after cleaning? Please help. I love my car very much. Regards.

[@louf7178]

I believe they're in a constant recslibrating process. It makes sense since it can continually get out if synchronization.

[@gabblem.777]

It is very simple when doing DIY maintenance. Disconnect your negtive battery terminal first, so you can't hurt any kind of electronic in your car. When the terminals are installed there's an electricity flowing in your system and there's a posibility that you can destroy some electronic parts.

[@brionburkett2754]

Unplug your battery before you remove anything attached to a sensor (seats, throttle body, headlights, etc). And dont plug your battery back in until that thing is reinstalled. Otherwise youll get a code for a malfunction. And depending on your make/model, if that code has to do with safety, you will have a hard time clearing it. Just unplug the battery every time you are replacing anything with a sensor. Will save you a whole lot of resources.

[@craigbarrett2278]

So I got caught out on my Australian 6.0l GM powered ute. Engine code, throttle alignment.... had it read by a proper technician, said it's dirty.....cool, I can clean that! Yes and no.....unplug it from the car before you touch anything! With the key off the whole car is still active...as soon as I moved the butterfly it fed power back to the ECU and fried.....high idle, only repair......new ECU. I had to get my map transferred from the damaged one. I opened my throttle body and there was nothing to damage by moving it manually as long as it's not connected to the car......lesson learned!

[@mochenmat]

i ALWAYs unplug the negative terminal from the battery if i know im going to unplug anything in the engine bay to prevent this...also wait 30min for safe measure. Sorry you had to learn that lesson that way :(

[@furryrupert3739]

I believe the throttle body cleaner seeped into the electronic part of the component and screwed things up. Which is why it is better to leave the throttle body on the engine and use a clean cloth soaked with the cleaner to clean it. It would also be safer to disconnect the battery when doing so. And after the throttle body has been cleaned , to wait for a while maybe an hour to let all the cleaner dry up before fixing back the battery.

[@DVX755]

I had the same problem, threw a code soon as it was hooked back up. I didnt take the battery cable off, so I did this overnight and re-seated the throttle body moving plate a bit. The code went away the next morning and no problems so far.

[@awakeandalive4248]

The key is to disconnect the battery first and be very careful if you spray directly on to the throttle body make sure the side with the electrical part is pointing up so no fluid gets into the electrical part and better yet get a lint free towel the blue shop towel is perfect for it spray on the towel and wipe the throttle body, I just clean mine a week ago and it worked perfectly, so just simply disconnect battery first and avoid spraying into the side of the throttle body by the electrical part. The people that have issues after they clean it is because they didn't disconnect the battery and that will cause idle issues and spraying fluid into the electrical part of the throttle body will destroy the electrical part and the throttle body but no need to be afraid to clean it just use common sense and be careful.

[@grc787]

From what little I've gathered about this process of cleaning electronic throttle, when cleaning, always keep electronics connector side up to prevent getting solution on the electronics. Secondly, from some research I've done for electronic throttle, never spray directly on the component. Always spray on a shop towel and work in. And finally, only use nylon bristles is using them and never steel. Once you are done cleaning, let the electronic throttle enough time to adequately dry in the event any solution seeped through to prevent shorts. This process should be done with the negative battery terminals disconnected to clear trim values if not preset like in Toyotas. Upon reconnecting everything and the negative battery terminals, an idle relearn procedure need be performed

[@teravolt6113]

I highly doubt you can get an apolar solvent to actually short out something. And keep in mind that PCV is ducted to behind the throttle plate, so it's always dipped in an oil mist while the engine is running.

[@unclebishoppeskitchen5838]

When cleaning the throttle body you shouldn't move the butterfly flap. It will set your throttle position sensor to make the ECM think it's running at a higher RPM and you'll throw several codes. That's what your problem was caused from. It could have been fixed by reprogramming the system by relearning the sensor. But that would have been more money than buying the new throttle body. LoL

[@inverseuniverse5727]

You did not damage it . You just helped it along .. unplug it before moving it manually .

[@thurm101]

Never stick your fingers to clean a ELECTRONIC throttle body. Get a person or a brick to hold the butterfly open so that you can clean the walls of the throttle body. Do not turn the car on. Just turn the key to allow the accessory on. Then put a brick or go grab your kid to press the gas pedal. The kid would love it.

[@DragonL33t]

I did a little research and sources say that they just need to be relearned because the sensor in there makes adjustments to the butterfly based on the situation (example being the carbon build up) to keep the car running close to spec. If yours went out it must have just been rotten luck which really sucks. I have been considering cleaning mine but it still scares me a great bit.

[@ronaldsosa951]

If you take it out to just clean it Dont touch the plate inside dont muve it. Just spray it araund but dont muve it

[@amartinez2071]

There is a video were a guy tells you to try not to move the butterfly and to keep the motor side up when you are spraying it.

[@furryrupert3739]

Correct. Otherwise the throttle body cleaner will seep into the electronics assembly and cause all sorts of shorting there.

[@BigBlock632]

The only thing that happened is when you manually opened the butterfly you through the computer off.

[@geeveeb]

Same thing happened to me...except that I just removed the negative terminal connection on the car's battery, reattached it, and that cleared the check engine light. Could have saved you $189 :)

[@RicardoMartinez-we4vc]

I just cleaned my throttle body but did not touch the flap. Tampering with the flap WILL alter the original position.

[@garysimmons2020]

My Chevy Cruze LS 2016 Had the code P1101. I pulled the boot off the top of the trottle body and cleaned it. I did push and clean around the flaps. Engine light off and car runs GREAT

[@adrianthebest3310]

Just disconnect your battery if you have issues it just needs to relearn it by driving it around

[@richrd0001]

Thanks for taking the time to publish this info.

[@PupShorts-ep1vj]

The can of CRC directions specifically state to manually move the butterfly....

[@johnbrasher1495]

But NOT on a TB with an electrically-controlled butterfly. See my repsonse to @Mike Perez above.

[@arodriguez9636]

IT depends on the kind of vehicle, mine is Toyota i had done it couples of times, NO PROBLEMS AT ALL

[@bigtreesfall]

True. I clean my TB on my Volvo and gti and had no issues afterwards. I did disconnect the battery and for both, once reinstalled, I switched the key to the on position for about 3 mins then started them and no issues.

[@steveneric2298]

I found this out the hard way on my 07 Buick lacrosse. Thanks for the video!

[@jiml20]

I cleaned my throttle body while on vehicle best I could with spray and moved the flapper open and closed many times and reassembled. No issues whatsoever . I guess I was lucky. Originally the idle is low on my 2008 Avalanche around 550-600 when warm but no other issues I just don't want oil pressure to low or it may seize. I wish I could raise it up to around 650 RPM. cleaning it made no change except the gratification of knowing it has been cleaned

[@HomeImProveMentHow]

... thanks for the heads up! That's good information. I've just joined your community looking forward to your future videos Keep up the good work looking forward to hearing from you Ken.

[@mrhamburger6936]

When I hear the word basically basically basically basically tells me somebody doesn't know what the hell they're doing

[@ezescousin14213]

Actually actually actually actually your right! 😅

[@3adel2222]

Thank you I was about to take it off my car but now I will just clean it in its place.

[@jamesbarrett894]

If you have someone turn the key on and then push the gas pedal down it opens the butterfly and you can clean it and it won't produce your codes.

[@davidbush8710]

James Barrett won't that flood your engine?

[@JohnyComeLately]

David Bush key on, engine not running. Since fuel is controlled by computer based on engine speed, it won't.

[@jamesbarrett894]

No It won't flood your motor since it's not actually running.

[@jamesbarrett894]

Strange, what year is yours? and what kind of vehicle is it?

[@jamesbarrett894]

Hmm. Not sure about a KIA but i do know that on any 07 and newer GM will work the way i listed. I wish i could help you out with some insight but i really am not sure on that KIA.

[@evelynlopez669]

IF U HAVE A THROTTLE BODY SENSOR DO NOT OPEN BUTERFLY WHEN CLEANING SPRAY BACK N FRONT AND HAND CLEAN BEST U CAN. IF U OPEN BUTTERFLY U WILL RIUN THROTTLE BODY POISITION SENSOR

[@thehegt]

I did on my Veracruz, now it open a bit not dead but high rpm in the morning but when it warm up it dropped down ok , but the plate is stuck open 20%

[@jameswilson9966]

I'm just going to buy a new throttle body but do you recommend I buy a new senor aswell??

[@franciscoayon9470]

@@jameswilson9966 yes

[@jakejones5736]

Since the only purpose of a sensor is to sense position, how does manually changing the position of the valve damage the sensor?

[@SuperMoofie]

If it's electronic you can't force open the butterfly valve or you'll damage the electronics inside.

[@issaycperez679]

Clean it with out disconeting it works fine

[@traveler142]

"Clean it with out disconnecting it works fine" This is a Temporary Fix Only...Taking the Throttle Body Off and the EGR Valve Off and Cleaning them is the Proper Way... Bonus is that You Will be able to Clean the Passage Way from the EGR Valve to the Throttle Body...Then Your Vehicle Will Run Great. Doing a Half Ass Job does Not benefit Anyone...other than the Half Ass Mechanic.

[@XwpisONOMA]

I have suzuki sx4 that is with electronic throttle. It was very dirty but only behind the butterfly. I had no clue about the proper procedure, I slowly opened the butterfly with one hand use a chinese chopstick to hold it open, I sprayed almost half a CRC can (the small size) of cleaner and wiped it with a soft paper towel. Car had problem starting but it did start and seemed to be running fine. Took it for a ride less than 1/4 mile later once I stepped more on the gas the car hesitated and the engine light came on. It did not stall just behaved like it was running out of gas. Drove back to my house let it sit for a while while checking codes. It did have a misfire in cylinders 1, 2 and 4. I cleared the codes and restarted, it was running rough for a few minutes and engine light was coming on and off but once I revved it up it started to smooth out and eventually, it was idling fine with no engine light on. I took it for a ride, drove it hard it accelerated fine, no hesitation, drove around for 20 minutes no engine light and no problems what so ever. I hope what ever it was it was momentary or the car self repaired itself. Time will tell. Any comments, welcome, except for the usual stuff, e.g. it was stupid to do that without doing homework first. Cheers all!

[@iosifroussos7617]

hello I am from Greece. I also have a suzuki , I experienced a rough idle and I opened the throttle body for cleaning. It was really very dirty , especially after the butterfly , I used carburater cleaner and a rug just like you , but I used much and guess what....It affected the electronics in the idle air control ( iac)valve , so when I mounted it back the situation worsened and while in idle the rpm was going up and down by itself. I couldn't find just the iac valve , so I had to replace the whole throttle body, I bought a used one ( 80ευρω). Since I mounted it everything was ok. Lesson to be learned : We should be carefull with the cleaners use just little of it and with caution.!!! Έχεις διαγνωστικό φίλε?

[@catwilson1774]

NEVER SPRAY ON IT!! Always use a clean cloth preferably shop rag and spray rag then clean.

[@manawydan760]

stop pretending to know about something

[@prostreetcamaro]

I do not recommend doing this unless you have a proper scan tool so you can do idle relearn after you clean it. The let run for 3 minutes, cut off 1 minute, run 3, off 1, run 3 and off 1 did not work on our 08 2500HD. I went ahead and bought a $730 autel scan tool and did the idle relearn and she's perfect now. Another tip. Never spray the throttlebody. Use a toothbrush with throttlebody cleaner to clean it. Scrub and wipe clean. Do it until everything is clean. Just trying to help folks not get into the same situation I did.

[@rogersmith8614]

You can replace just the sensor and reprogram it. Those silver clips pop off.

[@sekcyseraph2001]

That’s interesting. I’ve cleaned so many GM TBI’s (‘88-‘95, i think) and they take cleaner like a champ. You just have to make sure your TPS and IAC is in good condition, as well as making sure you disconnect the battery for at least thirty mins to reset the ECM.

[@JakeSmith-ux1xk]

Thanks

[@Nytellem]

I never took the battery out should I redue the process again with the Battery out? or should I just simply remove the battery for 30 mins while everything is in there.

[@travelinman482]

@@Nytellem No, you only need to disconnect the negative terminal to the battery. Make sure it’s not touching any metal framing of the car. Wrap it in a small clothe or towel if need be.

[@niacal4nia]

On newer VWs you need a VAG scanner to reset the throttle position sensor or car won't start after either a battery disconnect or throttle body removal.

[@Eric0778]

Check the codes 1st. If its P0171 Just replace the Mass Air sensor and the air intake filter, make sure there's no holes and reset the thing with an obd2 like Mr Kilmer and others have said, then also reset by disconecting the batery for 15 min. Most likely you have ruined the MAS without knowing it. Most likely faulty

[@treytrey4411]

Thanks good looking out I never thought of that. Thanks for sharing.

[@rockrivera5339]

If you have an electronic throttle body, you will damage your throttle body if you manually open the throttle plate. You can only do that on throttle body's that still use a cable to open and close. The newer one's don't have a cable and are controlled by a sensor.

[@kevinbrislawn5918]

Rock Rivera so then how do you clean an electronic t T. Body?

[@delroyaugust6975]

K B apparently u gotta buy a new one once this pissy system gets dirty...I'm buying old vehicles from now on!

[@perezrd]

Delroy August you need to turn the key to the on position but do not start the vehicle. Then have someone sit in the vehicle and step on and hold the gas pedal all the way down.

[@mattyb1030]

I assembled these on the iafm at GM. Millions of them lol.

[@ianwilds3139]

I did on my '05 Silverado 6.0L without any problem. .you have to disconnect the - battery cable before you unplug your throttle body connector.

[@Sebastianrogersmusic]

I cleaned mine in my Honda Accord v6 and got a check engine right after. just disconnected the battery for 5 minutes and reconnected it worked. The computer has to relearn it...

[@danielmihai4]

Sebastian Rogers mine won’t go back to normal after cleaning it what did you do

[@Eric0778]

This one's worth a try

[@MrPatdeeee]

Down below Dan Chapin asked a great question: "does any body could tell me what's the bennefits gives a viechle by cleaning out this throttle body on cars. Or what would be an issue a vehicle can have if we don't clean out this throttle body?". I noticed no one had answered him in 5 months. So I tried to. If you are interested, the following is how I commented to his questions: Good question. First: Over time, carbon will build up throughout the Throttle Body. This usually cause the damper NOT to close and open properly. The computer notices this and tries to correct it, but that is NOT going to happen. So the "Throttle Body" NEEDS to be thoroughly cleaned with a cleaner specifically designed for Throttle Bodies. DO NOT USE ANY OTHER CLEANER. VERY IMPORTANT! Some try to do it with it still mounted in the air flow connectors. I do NOT suggest this. Secondly: REMOVE THE NEGATIVE CONNECTOR TO THE BATTERY before you begin cleaning the TB. VERY IMPORTANT! Then... Remove the TB carefully. Any connectors or other things connected to the TB; remove them carefully. Use the "CRC" cleaner for TB's. Use care THOROUGHLY cleaning that damper on BOTH sides. Make it look brand new! Then... Dry it completely. Wait for the cleaner to completely become dry. VERY IMPORTANT! The following shows properly how to clean the TB: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5qypX6Yn5xofs0 Rags and towels can leave lent, dust and dirt. You do NOT want this to happen. Use your air compressor. Re-install the TB. Be careful in connecting all the connectors and bellow (ribbed rubber) connectors, etc. Wait for about 6 hours; to MAKE sure the cleaner is thoroughly dry. Make sure ALL things disconnected are back where they were. Then reinstall the negative connector to the battery. Start your engine. In most cases the "Check Engine" light WILL come on sooner or later. Also, your engine will NOT run smoothly.The reason for this is: when you disconnect the wires to the TB, it looses all data from the computer. So the TB must be "RE-LEARNED"; before that "check engine" Icon is going to stay off. Not to mention the poor smoothness of the engine. Research "KZbin" to show you HOW to "RE LEARN" your computer, when idle is too high and/or not smooth. Make sure you follow these steps. This is VERY IMPORTANT. The following link is one that I recommend to RE LEARN your TB; after you have cleaned it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rIWXeKGBqqt-qMk In most cases it will not work the first time. Do it again and maybe again. After a while you will get the knack of it. And when you have done it correctly; the engine light will be out; and your idle will be around 700 rpm; where it is supposed to be; and your car will (in most cases) run like it was brand new. Promise! I recommend you do this about every 30K miles. But NO later than 60K miles. Get this: some dealers charge hundreds of dollars and most of them ONLY spray the TB in a very short time. Sad indeed. Downright criminal IMHO. Hope this helps.

[@adrianthebest3310]

Dont touch the butterfly at all before and after disconnecting it if you do the computer might not simly fix WITH a drive, what happens is they are covered in sludge over time and your computer will compensate by sending signals and making adjustments when you clean it the butterfly moves and no longer stops on sludge so your computer wants to run the car like before so a learning process is required by simply driving it or dealer

[@rogerr7856]

Seafoam spray cleaned it right up, along with everything behind it. No issues. 2011 Tahoe.

[@ole_rusty0747]

Your throttle portion sensor comes off with ease it is the silver clips thry pop off and you can replace the tps

[@josephtarlue6871]

Thank you very much buddy that was very thoughtful of you!!!

[@jumbie4972]

Warning ⚠ if you take out the throttle body to clean it make sure you replace the gasket for it. That's why some people don't take it out. It's a cheap gasket, just take it out and clean it thoroughly.

[@tommy6633]

I didn't see a gasket in the video....but I was wondering if there was one.

[@FlyingPilot2012]

Disconnecting the battery beforehand may have prevented your issue

[@Maximilian0011]

correct

[@louf7178]

Thanks. This makes sense as to what's going on, now.

[@jaddabi8334]

I disconnected it and still had reduced power.

[@chrisgraham2904]

When cleaning, do not allow the butterfly flapper to move at all. Move it and the calibration is gone.

[@thehandymanchannel5357]

Thank you so much for helping me clean my throttle body. I’m not a mechanic but I am a carpenter.

[@davegergick8659]

I have a 09 Aura and KNOW 2 things: if you move the plate much, it will screw up the idle. I cleaned mine about 3 years ago and it wouldn't idle right for about a week! It slowly fixed itself and has run fine since...... #2 - the ones that have a half-round plastic top like in this video cannot be rebuilt. mine started acting up today (P2135, reduced power mode) and tried to take the top off and it's NOT like the others in all the videos. This one will not come off (gm part 217-3428). I gotta buy the whole thing.

[@davecpgh]

Just got done cleaning mine. Not back on my truck yet. Doing it tomorrow. Or possibly taking off more parts to clean. Hoping didn't mess up mine.

[@verinb9]

Damn! I wish I saw this video before I decided to clean my throttle body. I sprayed and cleaned it real good. Had it looking like it was brand new. When I go to start the car I get a P0300 code saying multiple misfiring! Now the RPM's are going crazy, the brakes take a little longer to stop but as far as take off it goes lightning fast just like the Flash. 🤦🏾‍♂️

[@tmollet08]

Sounds like you idle air control valve is open or unplugged

[@dakuush]

How did you get rid of that code ?

[@verinb9]

@@dakuush I did a throttle body relearn procedure and then I was good. You can Google or try looking it up on KZbin. Good luck.

[@lukegipson4684]

Wish I had found this yesterday. Cleaned the TB on my trailblazer trying to correct my car going into “limp mode.” Didn’t correct the issue and now the cruise control light is on. I guess I was too careless with the fluid, not knowing this. Car is stuck in my driveway and I don’t own a scanner. Smh... looks like a few purchases are in order.

[@MasterChief-sl9ro]

You do it on the car and it does a swipe from the ECM. You might lose a finger. If it's in there while it does. As there is a warning you can lose your finger. You have to unplug it and disconnect the battery.

[@andrewsrenson1212]

i did the same thing, thinking why do anything half way when i can do it properly... kinda sucks, when you start out with good intentions and it goes pear shaped lesson learned

[@CarlosGonzalez-ch6xw]

did you disconnect the battery before you disconnect and connected the throttle body?

[@brionburkett2754]

Exactly. Always disconnect the battery if replacing anything connected to a sensor

[@godzilla7391]

Almost seems easier to just replace it then to try to clean them, and then have to worry about potential codes

[@daveyt4802]

Gears get spun or out of position when you move the blade by hand, proabably.

[@Sonee777]

Thanks for the tip I’m waiting on mine in the mail.

[@sharkfinn6469]

On a bmw, audi, vw, mercedes and honda you can recalibrate these things with the workshop softwate and cable

[@CharlieTechie]

Yes, we now live a throwaway society and people wonder why car service costs so much. :(

[@AdrianJayeOnline]

on the BMW's, you can do a relearn for the TPS, but you need to correct software to do it, good learning curve, sometimes it's better to leave well alone, a little bit of carbon, wont really mess up your car.. :) great vid though

[@AdrianJayeOnline]

ps plenty of info on the forums on the best way to clean your particular TB and the problems you could have !

[@jwodehouse7087]

What about cleaning the actuator motor under that black cover? I’m my personal experience with my SAAB 9-3, as that motor gets a touch dirty or old lube gums up the gears that move the butterfly, the codes begin to pop. Cleaning the intake and butterfly is the first half the job. Good video in that respect.

[@jameseichele7118]

They are serviceable now

[@TrillJay15]

Appreciate you're video having this issue right now 😐

[@birdking6389]

A few month ago, I took apart the sensor from the body, and sprayed a lot of brake cleaner into the sensor first and then sprayed a lot of WD40 into the sensor again. no problem at all, and I believe it makes a good lubrication and better contact inside the sensor. before buying a new one, try this way first. my car is 2005 buick lacrosse. similar thing.

[@angeliquejones4963]

actually they due sell the TPS by itself and this video was very helpful and it just happened to me yesterday! Thanks

[@glowiever]

in toyota it just turn on, push pedal down, hold for 15 secs. release. repeat three times. sounds like a no brainer to callibrate the throttle.

[@Andy44Andy]

Code error is normal regardless of removing or not after cleaning very dirty throttle plate. Most Honda will require relearn computer for idle reset after cleaning throttle body. Just Google how to relearn computer for idle. Video is good but needs revise with reset procedure.

[@motorcyclemike43]

The electronic unit can be replaced..it's held in place by several clips!

[@teddyvillaflor4036]

Thank you for the warning much appreciated.

[@Romenite]

After you clean your throttle body you have to reset the throttle position sensor . what happens over time as you drive and it gets gummed up the calibration changes , after a while of doing that it can cause it to give you a code . So after you clean it or you get the code what you have to do is unplug the negative terminal on your battery . Next hook a jumper to the positive post on battery and hook the other end of jumper the negative lead (not the negative battery post ) What your doing is draining the capacitors so you can reset the calibration . Then after a few minutes reattach the negative leade make sure all auxilliary things are off radio air conditioning etc . Then turn key to on position and what for gauges to and dash lights to turn off then start it , let it run until its warm at operation temps then go for a drive and all codes will reset back to normal . Hope this helps some of you .

[@excessmeteor9704]

RomeniteNY I’ve always disconnected both positive and negative and held them together.

[@thing-a-majig3345]

Did you use sensor safe cleaner