What is a throttle cable? What does the throttlewire do? What are the symptoms for a throttle wire problem?
What is Throttle Wire exactly?
The throttle cable, also known as the throttle control cable, is a simple component that plays a significant role in the operation and control of the engine. The throttle cable has one end connected to the spring-loaded latch at the throttle body (also known by a throttle), and the other to the accelerator pedal. When the accelerator pedal is pressed, the wire can be pulled and the throttle will open due to the mechanical rotational movement. The engine’s air volume increases as the throttle is opened. This information is sent to the PCM / ECM/ ECU by a sensor called the Mass Air Flow (MAF). The PCM adjusts the amount fuel that is sent to the injectors based on the amount air in the engine. This increases the engine’s operating speed and produces more power.
Modern vehicles have an electronically controlled throttle. They do away with the need for a throttle cable. The throttle is opened to the proper range based on the amount of pressure applied to the accelerator pedal.
The throttle wire is composed of a protective outer layer and a braided, steel wire that slides inside. This allows the throttle lever to transfer force. The most common problem that throttle wires face is breakage. Over time, the wire will wear out. Rarely, the wire may come in direct contact with moving parts of an engine. In these cases it can wear out and fail prematurely. The outer casing may be damaged, but the inner metal wire could also be damaged. The throttle wire is subject to constant stress and can break if it gets even the slightest bit of damage. The service life of the throttle wire is typically 5 years. It should be checked at regular maintenance intervals.
If this simple component is not working properly, it can cause malfunctions. Here are some signs that your throttle wire needs to be replaced.
- The engine should respond immediately, and the vehicle should accelerate when the accelerator pedal is pressed. Over time, stretching and abrasions can occur. The throttle cable could become loose. Intermittent delays in pressing the accelerator pedal can result. The driver may delay their reaction, which can result in a more aggressive throttle response. This could lead to dangerous situations.
- – Throttle wires can become stretched over time. This not only delays throttle response but also makes them more susceptible to breakage.
- – A very dirty throttle cable can cause slow throttle response.
- A problem with your throttle cable could cause hardening, loosening of falling down or sticking to the accelerator pedal. If this happens, you should get the throttle cable checked.
- It could also be caused by a problem in the throttle cable if the idle speed is too high/low.
- Cruise control can be affected by the above symptoms if it is fitted to your vehicle. Because the cruise control operates with the same gear, it can be difficult to maintain a constant speed.
- If you feel the pedal jerk or stick in the pedal when you activate the cruise control it is likely that the throttle cable is faulty.
