If you’re wondering whether the brake cleaner is safe to clean your throttle body, the answer is No.
Brake cleaner contains severe chemicals that can ruin the sensitive rubber and plastic parts in the throttle body, such as the sensors, valves or gaskets. When you ignite the motor, it will create more significant burning than your engine is used to, resulting in engine damage or even leading to a rough idle.
Can I Use Brake Cleaner To Clean Throttle Body? It’s advisable to avoid brake cleaners when detaching carbon deposits and dirt on the throttle body.
However, if you have no choice and must use this solvent, check that you use the non chlorinated brake cleaner by verifying the label to ensure it is unharmed for use on this component, for instance, Brakleen Brake Parts Cleaner. Look for a brake cleaner labeled safe for use on throttle bodies or electronic components.
What Is Throttle Body?
When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, one crucial component that often does receive enough attention is the throttle body. The throttle body regulates the amount of air that enters the engine, which is vital for proper combustion and performance.
Over time, dirt and debris can build up in the throttle body, causing it to become clogged and less efficient. Is there the best way to clean your throttle body? Can you use brake cleaner? We are here to help you to find answers to those questions.
What Is a Brake Cleaner?
Brake cleaner is a type of solvent designed to remove oil, grease, and other contaminants from the surface of brake parts. It is typically sold in an aerosol can and contains chemicals such as acetone, toluene, and methanol. Brake cleaner is known for its ability to evaporate quickly, leaving behind oily residue and a clean and dry surface.
However, brake cleaner is not ideal is not ideal for cleaning the throttle body. Brake cleaner is produced to get rid of oil and grease from brake pads and discs, and it can be too harsh for the sensitive components of the throttle body.
Why Does Throttle Body Need to Be Cleaned?
If the throttle body becomes dirty, it can cause many issues. The most typical problem is that the engine will run lean, which means that more fuel needs to be getting into the engine for combustion starting fluid. This can lead to engine problems, including knocking, hesitation, and stalling.
In extreme cases, it can even cause engine failure. That’s why it’s essential to clean the throttle body. The good news is that it’s relatively easy, and you can easily do it as a regular maintenance routine with the help of some throttle body cleaner.
The filter aims to refine the air moving through the throttle body via the butterfly valve into the engine. Even if you don’t notice these signs, a check engine light may come on. The throttle body filled with carbon accumulation and filth must be cleaned.
What Should I Use To Clean My Throttle Body?
It is essential to assess the ingredients of the cleaners when it comes to cleaning your throttle body.
Some cleaners can be too harsh and harm the butterfly valve or other parts. On the other hand, other cleaners, such as brake cleaners, can be combustible and destroy the engine if traces are left in the throttle body. Which cleaning products are safe to use to clean your throttle body?
The best option is to purchase a dedicated throttle body cleaner. Since these products are created especially for throttle bodies and will include safe components, let us review these in detail.
Throttle Body Cleaner
Many car enthusiasts recognize consistent maintenance is vital to handling your vehicle smoothly. The throttle body is one of the essential elements of any car. The throttle body regulates airflow into the engine, and gradually it can become blocked with carbon deposits.
This can lead to declined performance and fuel efficiency. A throttle body cleaner is formulated to clean this part of the vehicle thoroughly. These cleaners are designed to penetrate through carbon buildup and break it down for easy removal.
It gives your throttle body a deep cleanse, ensuring no filth can block airflow. You will be glad that a throttle body cleaner is considered sensor safe. A throttle body cleaner won’t ruin the air sensor in your vehicle, and the throttle body cleaner will be gentle on this lining.
So next time you’re looking for a way to boost your car, reach for a throttle body cleaner. Always better to go for a safe solution.
What About Carb Cleaner?
Carb cleaner is comparable to throttle body cleaners in that it is a carburetor cleaner, and carb cleaner can be employed here to clean the throttle body.
Remember, it is not recommended to make a habit of putting on carb cleaner on the throttle body but good to highlight that they are slightly less harsh on sensitive rubber and plastic parts than brake cleaners. If you don’t have a throttle body cleaner, occasionally, you can utilize carb cleaner.
How to Clean a Throttle Body
Let’s take a look at the steps involved in the process.
Step 1: Locate the Throttle Body
The first step in cleaning your throttle body is to locate it. The throttle body is typically found near your engine’s air and intake manifold and is connected to the air intake hose. It will have a butterfly valve that regulates the amount of air that enters the engine.
Step 2: Remove the Air Intake Hose
Once you have located the throttle body, you will need to remove the compressed air or fluid intake hose that is connected to it. This hose is typically held in place with clamps or screws.
Step 3: Clean the Throttle Body
Now that you can access the throttle body, you can begin cleaning it with the cleaner you choose. Spray it directly onto the throttle body, covering all surfaces. Use a clean rag or brush to remove any dirt or debris that is loosened by the cleaner.
Step 4: Reinstall the Air Intake Hose
Once you have finished cleaning the throttle body, you can reinstall the air intake hose. Be sure to tighten any clamps or screws that were loosened during the throttle cleaner removal process.
Step 5: Test the Throttle Response
After cleaning the throttle body, it is crucial to test the throttle response to ensure it works properly. Start the engine and rev it a few times to ensure the throttle responds smoothly.
Why Do Many Car Owners Use Brake Cleaner To Clean The Throttle Body?
There are different reasons why many car owners still apply brake cleaner to clean the throttle body, and the most typical reason is that brake cleaner are more readily available than throttle body cleaners.
Many car owners are unaware of throttle body cleaner and may have difficulty finding them. Another reason to use brake cleaner is that it is designed to be strong on dirt but gentle on the protective finish in a throttle body.
It is significant because a throttle body’s sensors and other elements are delicate and can be easily damaged.
Hence, getting a cleaner created for the job of the throttle body is the best way to ensure that it the job is taken care of effectively and safely and servers you longer.
What’s The Worst That Can Happen If I Use Brake Cleaner On Throttle Body?
If you apply brake cleaner on the throttle body, you will observe a decrease in engine performance, and the vehicle may stall and surge more frequently. In addition, the brake cleaner can harm sensitive elements of the throttle body, causing long-term problems.
If you must use a cleaner on the throttle body, choose one specifically manufactured for automotive components. You should follow the instructions attentively and keep away from using too much cleaner. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure your vehicle continues running smoothly.
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