* Faulty Fuel Injectors: This is the most common culprit. A faulty injector can leak fuel constantly or intermittently, allowing fuel to drip into the intake manifold and subsequently the throttle body. This can be due to a worn-out injector, a clogged injector, or an electrical problem with the injector circuit.
* High Fuel Pressure Regulator: If the fuel pressure regulator is malfunctioning and allowing excessive fuel pressure, it can force fuel past the injectors and into the intake manifold.
* Cracked or Damaged Fuel Rail: A crack or damage in the fuel rail can allow fuel to leak out, potentially leading to fuel entering the throttle body.
* Faulty Fuel Pump: While less likely to directly cause a leak *into* the throttle body, a malfunctioning fuel pump that delivers excessive pressure can contribute to the issues mentioned above.
* Vacuum Leaks: A large vacuum leak *after* the throttle body could theoretically draw fuel into the system if a sufficient amount has already leaked in from another source (e.g., a leaking injector). This wouldn't be the primary cause but could exacerbate the situation.
Consequences of Fuel in the Throttle Body:
Leaking fuel into the throttle body is dangerous because:
* Rich Fuel Mixture: This leads to a very rich air/fuel mixture, causing rough running, poor performance, and potentially engine damage.
* Hydrolock: In severe cases, an excessive amount of fuel can accumulate in the cylinders and hydrolock the engine, causing catastrophic damage.
* Fire Hazard: Fuel is highly flammable, and a leak near the hot engine components presents a significant fire risk.
Important Note: Do not attempt to diagnose or repair this issue yourself unless you have significant automotive experience. The presence of fuel in the throttle body indicates a potentially dangerous problem that requires professional attention from a qualified mechanic. Driving with this problem is strongly discouraged.
