A bad throttle cable can cause cruise control issues and delayed engine response. Both can make it dangerous to drive. That’s why it’s imperative to replace your throttle cable once you find out it’s faulty.
What Does a Throttle Cable Replacement Entail?
The steps for replacing a throttle cable can vary significantly depending on your ride’s make and model.
The process involves opening the hood. The mechanic will also locate the throttle body, which is usually between the air cleaner and the intake manifold.
The mechanic will then remove the throttle cable and the cable bracket, which includes detaching the cable from the firewall. After that, the mechanic will position the new cable (one end to the accelerator pedal and the other end from the accelerator pedal and throttle body).
If you want to do the replacement on your own, you must be careful not to damage the cable or any nearby components.
A Closer Look at the Throttle Cable
The throttle cable is a spring-loaded wire in vehicles with a mechanical throttle body. It connects the gas pedal to the throttle plate.
When you press your accelerator pedal, the throttle plate opens to allow more air to enter the engine. Regulating airflow to the engine lets you control the speed of your vehicle.
Electronic Throttle System
Most modern vehicles have an electronic throttle control (ETC) system. This type of system uses an electric motor to control the throttle plate instead of a throttle cable.
The system also relies on several sensors in the accelerator pedal and throttle body. These sensors help make sure that the vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM) has the correct information in case there will be a malfunction.
How to Tell If Your Car Has a Throttle Cable
You can check your owner’s manual to verify whether your ride has a throttle cable. Generally, if your vehicle was manufactured before 2000, it likely has a throttle cable.
Symptoms of a Bad Throttle Cable
If you notice these issues, there might be something wrong with your throttle cable:
Delayed Accelerator Response Time
The engine must respond when you step on your pedal. If you have to press the gas pedal all the way to accelerate, then you might be dealing with a bad throttle cable.
Delayed acceleration is also one of the many loose throttle cable symptoms, so ensure your cable is correctly adjusted. Luckily, adjusting your throttle cable is easy. Simply loosen the two nuts that keep the throttle body under tension, then slide the cable backward or forward to tighten or loosen it.
Note that, aside from a bad throttle cable, there can be other reasons why your vehicle’s accelerator response time is delayed, like a defective fuel pump or fuel injector.
Physical Damage
If you’re a seasoned automotive DIYer, you can also inspect your throttle cable for signs of wear or damage. Determine if the cable is bent or out of shape as well.
Stiff Gas Pedal
Observe how your gas pedal feels. If it feels stiff or hard when you step on it, take a trip to an auto repair shop and have a mechanic check it. If it isn’t the throttle cable that’s faulty something else might be causing the issue.
Is It Safe to Drive With a Bad Throttle Cable?
No, it’s not. Remember that a failed cable can affect your ride’s ability to accelerate and cruise control function. Contact a mechanic right away to avoid accidents while driving.
When Should I Replace My Ride’s Throttle Cable?
Replace your throttle cable if you’re starting to notice bad throttle cable symptoms. Don’t think twice about replacing a defective throttle cable because it can affect acceleration. If you ignore the issue, you might just end up spending more on repairs, especially if you get involved in a collision.
Replace your throttle cable if you’re starting to notice bad throttle cable symptoms.
–Anthony Harlin, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician
How Much Does a Throttle Cable Replacement Cost?
You can get a top-notch aftermarket throttle cable for less than $50. The price depends on the replacement’s brand and specifications. Your vehicle’s make and model can also affect pricing.
Factor in labor rates and other related repairs, which vary depending on what state you’re in.
You can also buy a throttle cable kit if you also need to replace other throttle-related components. Kits usually include an inner wire, braided stainless steel cable housing, throttle body fitting, throttle cable, and other throttle body components.
Aside from replacing a bad throttle cable, make sure to check other components of your throttle body for faults. Also, inspect the actual throttle body for binding.
If your vehicle is equipped with an ETC system, check the condition of your APP sensors, throttle position sensors, and intake manifold actuators regularly. Also, follow your regular maintenance schedule, so you can enjoy a safe and hassle-free driving experience.
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Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
