My check engine light came on (solid not flashing). Dealer has told me that I need a new throttle body at $1000.

Is this something that I can easily replace myself? I do routine maintenance on my car including spark plugs, timing belt, etc.

Thanks.

 

part is between 200 - 450 dollars I think, if you can take off the airbox you can probably do it, but I might get a second opinion before throwing money at it. Were you experiencing uneven throttle or smoke on startup?

 

Thanks for the reply. No smoke, no uneven throttle. The check engine came on after I had to drive over a very dusty road. I'm wondering if a throttle cleaning is all I need. Dealer just said that they were getting an error code on the throttle body and recommended replacing. I change my air filters regularly, so no problem with taking the air box off.

If I clean or replace, sill the check engine light go off without a dealer turning it off (assuming there is nothing seriously wrong)?

 

If your handy I would have a look at it first, see if it's really gunked up. Maybe have an indy check it if it looks clean and not overly oily/dirty inside. The stock air filters are pretty robust, but if you have an aftermarket like a K & N I am not sure?

There are many good independent mechanics in LA

 

Maybe this can help

 

Typical response from a dealer, IMO. Techs there do part replacement, not repair. They're certainly good at what they do, but very expensive. Your problem could be something simpler, but I'd recommend you get a scan tool so that you can read the codes that trip the CEL. There are many choices, from inexpensive generics to more car-specific ones. I use BlueDriver on iPhone/Pad and also have the Schwaben tool for Porsche. Knowing the code yourself can lead you to a simpler, cheaper DIY repair.

 

As others stated.... clean it.... shoot MAF cleaner in there and then jam in a rag with a screw driver.... the edges of the butterfly are what you really need to clean. You can gently grab the butterfly and pull it open... you won;t hurt it. Then, I shoot a quick burst where the pins go on the sides.... you are not supposed to shoot directly in there but I do for a really short burst. Then quickly move the butterfly open/close over and over. The fluid evaporates really quickly so you have to do your wiping and butterfly moving quickly after the spray.

Pull the MAF sensor out and spray it liberally and forcefully.... and then shake the fluid off.. snap/shake hard.

When you put the hose back onto the throttle body, look inside the hose first.... you will see little nubs that have to go inside the body while the hose goes outside..... you can pinch these and and leave an air leak.... so take good care to mount this hose correctly. Leaving the Jubilee Clip really loose helps.

You dash light should go off.... it may take a few start cycles.....

Then when you are all done.... reset the throttle body...... See my post here:

https://rennlist.com/forums/997-foru...procedure.html

Too see the nubs, see my vid below... it is on a different subject, but I show the nubs later in the vid... it is short.

Let us know how it goes.

Peace
Bruce in Philly