5 Best Throttle Body Cleaners to Restore Lost Performance

Last Updated on November 1, 2021

The throttle body of a vehicle is responsible for managing the amount of air that flows into the internal combustion engine. It is basically a butterfly valve which is positioned between the intake manifold and the air intake filter.

Whenever you step on the gas pedal to accelerate your vehicle, the engine control unit sends a signal to the throttle body to allow more air into the engine. As more air enters the internal combustion chamber, more fuel is injected as well. That way, the engine can respond to the power needs of the driver.

The throttle bottle has many areas, such as the throttle blade and bore, which need to be cleaned regularly using a throttle body cleaner. When you drive your vehicle, carbon deposits and debris build up on the throttle body over time.

If you let this go on for too long without cleaning, a dirty throttle body will diminish the performance of your engine. The best throttle cleaner will quickly restore this lost performance and prevent future damage.

Ignoring the issue may also affect your ability to start the engine or your car’s ability to idle smoothly with the heat or A/C on. These symptoms are due to carbon build up or other debris which prevent the proper amount of air from entering your engine.

See Also: Throttle Body Cleaner vs Carb Cleaner vs Brake Cleaner

Top 5 Throttle Body Cleaners

For the reasons above, it’s important to get your throttle body cleaned on a regular basis. You can either pay a mechanic to do it for you or you can do it yourself. If you choose the latter, you just need to know which throttle body cleaners are the best. Below are what I consider to be the 5 best throttle body cleaners available.

#1 – CRC Throttle Body and Air Intake Cleaner

The popular CRC throttle body cleaner is my favorite and one of the most popular cleaners with professional mechanics. It quickly cleans the most gummed up throttle bodies to restore lost performance and possibly increase your gas mileage.

Your engine will feel like new again and best of all is the price. Make sure you use it in a well-ventilated area.

#2 – Berryman Chemtool Throttle Body Cleaner

Berryman throttle body cleaning formula works to eliminate any varnish, gum, carbon deposits, and fuel residue which has built up on your throttle body and all its linked components. After the debris is dissolved, you shouldn’t see any other residue left over afterward.

Best of all, your fuel economy will improve along with your overall driving experience.

#3 – CRC Mass Air Flow Sensor Cleaner

CRC Mass Air Flow Sensor Cleaner is great for cleaning the throttle body and sensors. A convenient time to use it is while changing your air filter. The formula is safe to use on plastic materials and it will dry very quickly.

It is a lightweight solution which will provide you with better horsepower and miles per gallon. Then you’ll spend less money at the gas station the next time you fill up your tank.

#4 – Mag 1 Carburetor and Choke Cleaner

Mag 1 cleaner contains no chlorination and it is formulated to remove varnish and sludge quickly, especially when it is on your oxygen sensors and catalyst converters.

Since it is non-chlorinated, none of the colors will be removed from the components. You should notice the results of the cleaning rather quickly.

#5 – 3M Throttle Plate and Carb Cleaner

Your engine performance will almost certainly improve with 3M Throttle Plate and Carb Cleaner. The can has a conveniently placed trigger for making it easier to dispense the cleaning solution.

It’s perfectly safe to use on oxygen sensors and all the plates of your throttle body. When you are finished applying, starting your engine should be much smoother.