Throttle Actuator Failure in European Cars: Leading Causes and Their Fixes

There are certain components that high-end European cars come equipped with that play a stellar role in the top-notch performance displayed by these cars. The throttle actuator, also known as the electronic throttle body, is one such component, that is responsible for controlling the amount of air entering the engine.

This has a significant impact on the operational efficiency of the engine and affects the overall performance of the car. Now, when the throttle actuator fails, it can lead to serious damage and costly repairs. In this article, we will discuss the leading causes of throttle actuator failure and their fixes.

Buildup of Carbon

Over the years, as your luxury European car gains miles, carbon deposits, dirt, oil vapors, and other contaminants start accumulating around the throttle plate and its housing. This buildup of dirt and contaminants creates problems in the optimal functioning of the throttle actuator as its movement gets restricted, and this is when you get erratic readings, which affects the actuator’s ability to properly control airflow.

This is when you are going to encounter rough idling, engine hesitation during acceleration, a drop in fuel economy, and activation of the "limp mode" in your car. Most of the time, it is seen that cleaning the throttle body thoroughly does fixes the problem.

However, if you find the buildup of contaminants is very severe, then you must reach out to a certified auto repair shop to get rid of the carbon buildup in your throttle actuator.

Bad Electrical Connector

There are numerous electrical systems and connections in your vehicle that can play spoilsport with the functioning of the throttle actuator when they encounter issues. Most of the time, it is seen that corrosion, damage, or loose connections affect the functioning of the electronic throttle body.

In fact, these problems can adversely affect the electrical signal, and this is when you encounter issues with the functioning of the throttle actuator. Often, drivers experience stalling, erratic idling, and an illuminated check engine light when the throttle actuator fails due to bad electrical connector problems.

Mostly, the problem is caused by the exposure of the throttle actuator to moisture and road salt that ultimately corrodes or damages the throttle actuator’s internal components, and this leads to erratic signal transmission and intermittent faults.

This is why you must inspect the plug and wiring for signs of corrosion, broken wires, and bent pins. In addition to that, you must clean the contacts with an electrical contact cleaner, and any damaged sections of wire or connectors must be fixed or replaced accordingly.

Malfunctioning Throttle Actuator Motor

The electric motor within the throttle actuator can encounter issues with its functioning, leading to its failure over time. Now, the electric motor makes it possible for the throttle actuator to move around; however, with its failure, you are going to experience complete loss of throttle control, "limp mode" activation, and an illuminated check engine light on the dashboard.

This is when a diagnostic scan is needed for your European car to determine the exact pinpoint of the problem with the throttle actuator motor in your vehicle. Now, whenever the throttle actuator motor goes bad in your car, you need to replace the entire throttle body assembly because the motor isn’t a serviceable part.

Vacuum Leaks

At times, it is seen that vacuum leaks in the intake system of your high-end car can adversely affect the air-fuel mixture in your engine. This is when the Engine Control Unit (ECU) makes an adjustment to the throttle plate for the smooth running and better performance of the car.

Nevertheless, this puts extra pressure on the throttle actuator, leading to its failure. In fact, you must have a look at all the vacuum hoses for the presence of cracks, leaks, and disconnections. Furthermore, a smoke test is a very effective method to determine whether there is an underlying vacuum leak in your high-end car.

Most of the time, replacing the damaged vacuum hoses or intake manifold gaskets can help fix the problems with the functioning of your throttle actuator.

Finally

The above-discussed factors are some of the leading causes behind throttle actuator body failure in high-end European cars. If you come across anything unusual in your vehicle, then get in touch with us at our auto repair shop to get your throttle actuator body inspected and fixed accordingly.

Peak Auto is one of the most sought-after luxury auto repair and maintenance facility located in Apex, NC. We are having years of experience in looking after high-end European, Asian, and Domestic cars. Our technicians are trained & ASE-certified.