Is it necessary to have the throttle body cleaned or is that just another dealer ripoff?

 

I cleaned my Infinity's (I know it is not a Lexus) at 130k KM, and it wasn't dirty. Unless you have well over 100k Miles (160k KM), then I would say it isn't necessary.

 

I did mine when I did my plugs @ about 60k miles.

Was not super dirty but a very simple job if you are at all DIY. Can of spray and about 15 minutes. Several YouTube videos out there including Car Care Nut.

 

The question is more of knowing whether it needs cleaning vs just cleaning. Why are you asking? Did you get a code from a scan tool or experience rough idle or acceleration?

 

No codes, no rough idle, or poor anything. Just the dealer constantly wanting to do this for $350.00

 

There's your answer! If you're still concerned, buy a few bottles of Techron fuel system cleaner.

 

uh I treat dealers like doctors…they first have a profit motive and they know how to tell you you need something without legally lying.

So with that, when they point out something, they should show you why then you confirm yourself and get educated. You know your car better than anyone and even the dumbest teenager can tell you when their car isn’t working right.

If I were you, if you don’t have a scan tool, get one and also find out what symptoms occur when a throttle body probably needs a cleaning.

 

I’ve cleaned throttle bodies on several vehicles that had well over 100k miles. More accurately, I took the throttle body off, saw no visible deposits, wiped it off with a rag and stuck it back on without any noticeable benefit from my troubles.

 

Thank you for this answer. I will ignore the service request to clean the throttle body in the future.