How to Clean the Throttle Body on a Sienna Van
by Jacqueline GonzalesAn automotive throttle body determines the amount of air flowing into the engine's combustion chambers. The throttle body, therefore, directly affects how well your Toyota Sienna minivan accelerates. You should clean your Sienna's throttle body periodically to remove any dirt and debris. This can lengthen the life of the throttle body and therefore your Sienna's engine itself. A clean throttle body will help to ensure smooth acceleration as you drive. You can take your Sienna to a dealer service department or to a professional mechanic to have the throttle body cleaned, or you can save some money and do it yourself. Fortunately, you can clean your Sienna's throttle body in your driveway in an afternoon using items available at your local auto parts store.
Step 1
Remove the hose clamp and vent hose from the Sienna minivan, using the screwdriver. This will allow you to reach the throttle body.
Step 2
Spray throttle body cleaner liberally onto the throttle body and butterfly valve. Make sure you spray the inside of the throttle body, too.
Step 3
Wipe the throttle body cleaner off your throttle body and butterfly valve using a clean rag. Use a toothbrush to clean the areas that the rag may not reach easily.
Step 4
Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until the throttle body is completely clean.
Step 5
Reattach the vent hose and hose clamp.
References
Tips
- Your Sienna may stutter the first time you start it after cleaning the throttle body. This is normal; the throttle body is cleaning out any remaining cleaner.
Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Throttle body cleaner
- Clean rag
- Toothbrush
Warnings
- Never work in the engine compartment of a car while the engine is on or while the battery is connected.
Writer Bio
Jacqueline Gonzales is a professional writer specializing in education, family and home topics for various home and garden websites. Gonzales is working on her first romance novel.
