Has Your Electronic Throttle Control Gone Bad? [Simple Guide]

Cables are outdated, and computers are in.

This is the case for all cars equipped with an electronic throttle controller over a traditional cable system. However, even the marvel of technology can eventually run into issues.

What occurs when an electronic throttle control goes faulty?

Rather than moving a cable, ETC uses sensors to inform the ECM of the position of the gas pedal, and when it fails, symptoms can be severe.

Some of these include abrupt idle surges and engine stalling, an engine light that flashes intermittently, or a substantial drop in mileage.

Ignoring a defective ETC will not only cause your engine performance to suffer but can also be a serious hazard.

Thankfully, this complete guide will cover everything you need to know about an ETC, including what to do if it fails.

We will start by taking a thorough look at what an electronic throttle controller is and how it operates.

Let’s understand the basics first!

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What Is Electronic Throttle Control?

There are two main types of throttle control systems. There’s cable, the more conventional of the two, and then there is electronic.

Cable

With a traditional cable system, an internal wire connects the gas pedal and the control linkage on the throttle body housing. A throttle body is a circular valve regulating the amount of air allowed to enter the combustion chambers.

When you press down the accelerator pedal, it opens the throttle mechanism.

Electronic

With electronic throttle control, the pedal is connected to a position sensor instead of a wire. When you press the gas pedal, its location is communicated with the ECM, which uses it to open the throttle as efficiently as possible.

One of the remarkable things about an ETC is that it’s easily linked to other systems, like cruise control, engine control, traction control, and ESC control. Basically, it ensures the entire system operates more smoothly.

Signs That Suggest Your Electronic Throttle Controller Has Gone Bad

The throttle positioning sensor (TPS) has a crucial job, and if it fails, you’ll likely experience some substantial problems.

Decreased Fuel Mileage

If your TPS is acting up, it may cause the erratic valve inside the throttle body to allow too much or too little air through.

When this occurs, your ECM will attempt to compensate for it, leading to a significant reduction in fuel efficiency.

Acceleration Issues

Imagine if your vehicle suddenly started accelerating for no obvious reason.

Rather disturbing, right?

This is one of the possibilities if your TPS fails. It may also result in a shortage of power, where you’re able to start the car, but it doesn’t remain functional for long.

Sporadic Idling

If your TPS calls it quits, you’ll likely experience random idle surges. Alongside unpredictable idling, you may also notice your engine misfiring, a rough idle, or stalling. It’s also possible that your car idles too high or too low.

Intermittently Flashing Indicator Light

Your engine is designed to run as efficiently as possible. For this reason, if something isn’t operating correctly, it can throw the entire system out of balance.

Fortunately, this is the exact purpose of the “check engine” light.

If your TPS stops working, there’s a significant possibility that you will be informed suddenly through a blinking indicator light.

Here’s What To Do If Your Electronic Throttle Controller Goes Bad

There are many reasons an ETC might act up. However, the most likely issue is that it’s dirty. Thankfully, cleaning an electronic throttle body is relatively straightforward.

If it has failed entirely, though, you may need to replace the throttle body completely. However, first, you’ll need to test it using a simple multimeter.

Depending on the location of the throttle body, you may be able to replace it yourself without undue difficulty.

If you choose to take it to a shop, be prepared to spend between $400-$1,500 for both components and labor on a digital throttle body replacement. Though, again, much of this depends on the make and model of your car.

Just Because Your Throttle Hesitates Doesn’t Mean You Should

If your electronic throttle controller goes defective, then do not be the one that waits to address it.

Not only will your engine suffer in terms of performance, but it also poses a possible safety concern due to abrupt acceleration issues.

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