How to Fix a Sticky Accelerator on a Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry is legendary for its longevity, but even the Camry needs a tune-up sometimes. One problem that commonly affects the Camry is the sticky accelerator pedal. When this problem strikes, you may feel some resistance from the gas pedal nearly every time you try to accelerate. It's usually little more than an annoyance, but why suffer when a few simple steps will have you accelerating smoothly in no time?

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Philips-head screwdriver or hex wrench
• Aerosol carburetor cleaner (make sure it's safe for oxygen sensor systems and catalytic converters)
• Old toothbrush
• Assistant
• Drop cloth or drip pan

1. • 1

     If possible, park the car on a slight slope with the driver's side slightly lower than the passenger's side.

   • 2

     With the engine off and cold, find the throttle body assembly. This is located just behind the main valve cover on the driver's side. It is connected to a large plastic shell (which holds the air filter) by a black rubber hose about three inches in diameter. Place the drop cloth or drip pan under the throttle body.

   • 3

     At the point where the hose connects to the throttle body, you'll find a clamp secured by a small bolt. Using either a Philips screwdriver or hex wrench, loosen the bolt and remove the hose from the throttle body.

   • 4

     Spray the carburetor cleaner inside the throttle body and scrub with the toothbrush. You should see black sludge coming out of the throttle body. Have your assistant step on the accelerator pedal to open the air intake, then spray more carburetor cleaner and scrub again until you've removed as much sludge as you can.

   • 5

     Attach the black hose to the throttle body and tighten the clamp. Move the car and clean up the sludge on the ground.

Tips & Warnings

• Next time you have your car serviced, ask the mechanic to check the PCV valve, as this often accumulates sludge as well, then vents it into the part you just cleaned.

• Since you'll be working on the vehicle's fuel system, be careful. This procedure isn't inherently dangerous, but smoking while performing it, for example, might be.