That typically includes 0.5 – 0.8 hr of labor plus a small parts cost (cleaner and a new gasket). If heavy carbon buildup requires removing the throttle body for a deep clean and a throttle relearn, expect 0.8 – 1.2 hr labor plus 0.2 – 0.4 hr for adaptation — overall throttle body relearn cost in this scenario can climb to $200 – $350.
Join other customers on the Jerry app to get insights into throttle body cleaning costs using real parts and labor data.
Real customers Jerry helped
While pricing can vary based on different factors like location, parts used, and exact vehicle, Jerry uses real customer experiences to show what drivers are paying right now. Here are some customer examples:
Estimates are modeled based on real vehicle and location data; names have been changed. Actual prices will vary by shop, parts, and vehicle condition.
What is a throttle body?
Think of the throttle body as your engine’s air valve. It sits between the air intake and the intake manifold, controlling how much air enters the engine. Inside, a round throttle plate pivots open when you press the gas. Older cars use a cable; most modern vehicles use an electric motor (drive-by-wire). The housing contains idle-air passages and position sensors. Some units have coolant passages, and many bores are coated — use throttle-body-safe cleaner only. Oil vapors and exhaust residues deposit sticky carbon that narrows passages, so cleaning restores stable idle and crisp response.
Signs you need a throttle body cleaning
Not every idle issue is a dirty throttle, but certain symptoms of a dirty throttle body that Jerry customers are seeing are classic. Watch for:
- Rough or high idle — carbon along the plate edge reduces precise airflow at idle.
- Stalling when stopping — sticky deposits can starve airflow as the plate closes.
- Sticky accelerator feel — buildup makes pedal movement jerky.
- Idle surge or hunting — the computer chases airflow targets but overshoots due to restriction.
- Poor fuel economy — restricted idle airflow can enrich the mixture.
- Check Engine Light with idle/throttle codes.
- High idle after a battery disconnect — dirty throttle plus cleared adaptations often requires cleaning and relearning.
If you see these symptoms, a targeted cleaning is the logical first step before pricier parts.
Cost breakdown: Why the price varies
A few key variables are swinging Jerry customers’ throttle body service price up or down. Here’s how each factor influences your final bill:
Vehicle design and access:
Some vehicles let you open the intake tube and clean the throttle body in place. Others require removing engine covers, air ducts or even the upper intake plenum. Easier access means 0.5 – 0.8 hr; tougher jobs run 1.0 – 1.5 hr.
Labor rate by shop type:
Independent shops often charge $90 – $140/hr while dealerships commonly charge $140 – $200/hr. Since the service is straightforward, labor rates drive much of the cost spread.
On-car vs. off-car cleaning:
Wiping the plate and bore in place is cheapest. Removing the unit for a bench clean (best for thick, tar-like deposits) adds time, plus a new gasket ($5 to $20). Use a cleaner safe for coated bores.
Throttle adaptation/relearn:
Drive-by-wire systems may need a scantool relearn after cleaning — typically +0.2 to 0.4 hr. Skipping this can cause high idle or surging.
Diagnostic time:
If a Check Engine Light (e.g., P0507, P2111) triggered the visit, your tech may add 0.3 to 0.5 hr to confirm it’s not a vacuum leak, bad mass air flow sensor or failing throttle. Quick checks include a smoke test for leaks, comparing “desired vs. actual” throttle angle, and checking fuel trims.
Add-on services:
Some shops bundle “intake/fuel induction” services. These can help on high-mileage engines but aren’t always necessary. Expect $30 – $150 extra if you authorize them.
Regional market:
Big metro areas and high cost-of-living regions raise labor rates; rural areas may be cheaper.
The bottom line: The cost to clean a throttle body on accessible engines can be under $120; deeper cleaning with adaptation and a new gasket at a high-rate shop can approach $300+. Quotes above $350 without plenum removal, coolant handling or diagnostics deserve a second look.
Your action plan: How to save money
Confirm the symptom fits: Throttle issues often show as rough/unstable idle, poor gas pedal response, stalling when stopping or a high idle. Inspect the intake boot for cracks near the MAF.
Ask for a line-item quote: Separate labor time for cleaning, parts (gasket), adaptation/relearn and diagnostic time. This keeps upsells in check.
Consider timing: Pair the cleaning with an air filter replacement — dirty filters feed the problem. Bundling can save a bit of labor overlap.
Decline blanket “intake decarb packages” unless your tech shows why you need them (leak test results, dirty trims at idle or heavy deposit photos).
Request adaptation if required: On many drive-by-wire cars, a relearn is the difference between a smooth idle and a comeback.
Fix root causes: If crankcase fumes (PCV issues) or vacuum leaks are dirtying the throttle quickly, cleaning alone won’t last. Ask for a smoke test if idle issues persist.
After service, validate: Idle should be stable (often about 650 to 750 rpm) with no surging. If idle isn’t stable, a relearn may be required.
Ask about TSBs/updates: Some idle/throttle concerns are fixed with PCM software.
Download the Jerry app to boost your repair confidence with local quotes and specialized insights into your situation.
DIY vs. Pro: Can I do this myself?
If you’re handy and your vehicle allows easy access, DIY throttle body cleaning is approachable. Jerry offers customers insights into labor and parts rates for a clear comparison.
Related repairs
If a cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue — or the throttle body is damaged — your technician may recommend related work. Here are the related repairs Jerry customers are bundling:
- Throttle body replacement: $300 – $1,000+ for parts and labor, depending on motor/sensor integration.
- Throttle body gasket: $5 – $20, usually replaced whenever the throttle is removed.
- MAF sensor cleaning or replacement: Cleaning is <$30 DIY; replacement runs $120 – $400.
- Intake boot or vacuum hose replacement: $50 to $200 for cracked/leaking hoses.
- PCV valve/hoses: $50 – $250. Excess crankcase vapors accelerate throttle deposits.
- EGR/intake cleaning: $150 – $400 if heavy carbon extends beyond the throttle.
- ECU throttle relearn: 0.2 – 0.4 hr labor; essential for stable idle after cleaning.
- PCM/ECU software update: 0.3 – 0.6 hr labor; check TSBs for idle/throttle fixes before replacing parts.
When DIY makes sense: Easy access, clear idle symptoms and comfort with basic tools.
When pro service makes sense: Drive-by-wire relearn needed, heavy deposits, and warranty coverage or time constraints.
Pro tip: If you DIY, use throttle-body-safe cleaner (not carb cleaner on coated plates), don’t pry the plate open on drive-by-wire units and replace the gasket if you remove the housing. Work cold, ventilate well and mind coolant lines on some throttles. Typical bolt torque is modest (7–10 Nm) — snug, not over-tight.
What our customers are asking
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How often should I clean my throttle body?
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Will cleaning damage my throttle body?
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Do I need a throttle relearn after cleaning?
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Can this fix a Check Engine Light?
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What cleaner should I use?
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Could it be something else?
Spencer Clayton is a mechanic, writer and fabricator who has hands that know their way around engines and a passion for storytelling. He’s diagnosed complex faults, built high performance engines and custom fabricated everything from fine detail parts to entire chassis while sharing how things work and why they matter. His background in everything from dealership technician work to building high performance cars spans a large breadth of experience, and he is driven by a love of all things automotive and a desire to share knowledge.
Steve Kaleff began working on cars at the very young age of nine years old, when his dad actually let him make fixes on the family car. Fast forward to the beginning of a professional career working at independent repair shops and then transitioning to new car dealerships. His experience was with Mercedes-Benz, where Steve was a technician for ten years, four of those years solving problems that no one could or wanted to fix. He moved up to shop foreman and then service manager for 15 years. There have been tremendous changes in automotive technology since Steve started his professional career, so here’s looking forward to an electric future!
Nick Wilson is an editor, writer, and instructor across various subjects. His past experience includes writing and editorial projects in technical, popular, and academic settings, and he has taught humanities courses to countless students in the college classroom. In his free time, he pursues academic research, works on his own writing projects, and enjoys the ordered chaos of life with his wife and kids.
