* Faulty Injectors: This is the most likely culprit. Faulty injectors can stick open, continuously spraying fuel even when the engine isn't demanding it. This excess fuel will flow into the intake manifold and potentially into the throttle body. This could be due to worn-out seals, electrical problems (stuck open solenoid), or internal mechanical failure.
* High Fuel Pressure: Excessive fuel pressure in the system can force fuel past the injectors, even if they are functioning correctly. This could stem from a faulty fuel pressure regulator, a malfunctioning fuel pump, or a clogged fuel filter.
* Vacuum Leaks: A large vacuum leak after the throttle body can disrupt the air/fuel mixture. While it won't directly cause the injectors to *flood* the throttle body, a rich fuel mixture will be created, leading to excessive fuel in the intake system and potentially appearing as a flood.
* PCM (Powertrain Control Module) Failure: The PCM controls the injectors. A malfunctioning PCM could send incorrect signals to the injectors, causing them to stay open longer than necessary.
* Fuel Pressure Regulator Issues: A faulty fuel pressure regulator might not be able to maintain the correct fuel pressure, leading to excessive fuel being delivered to the injectors.
* Returnless Fuel System Issues: In vehicles with returnless fuel systems, any blockage or issue with the system can cause excessive fuel pressure and flooding.
* Clogged Intake System: While less likely to be the primary cause of flooding, a significantly clogged air filter or other intake restriction could lead to a richer fuel mixture and contribute to the appearance of flooding.
Consequences of Injectors Flooding the Throttle Body:
This can lead to a variety of problems, including:
* Difficult Starting: The engine will struggle to start due to the excessively rich fuel mixture.
* Rough Running: The engine will run poorly and may misfire.
* Black Smoke from Exhaust: Excess fuel not burned will be expelled as black smoke.
* Engine Damage: Prolonged flooding can lead to hydro-locking (liquid fuel in the cylinders) which can severely damage the engine.
What to Do:
This is a serious issue requiring immediate attention. Do *not* continue driving the vehicle. You should take it to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair. They will likely need to use diagnostic tools to identify the precise cause of the problem. Ignoring the problem will likely lead to costly engine repairs.
