Note: Always ensure that the car battery is disconnected before attempting any electrical work.
1. Locate the Throttle Body:
- Open the hood of your 2006 Honda Element.
- The throttle body is located at the front of the engine, connecting the air intake hose to the engine block.
2. Remove the Air Intake Hose:
- Loosen the hose clamp that secures the air intake hose to the throttle body.
- Gently pull the hose off the throttle body.
3. Remove the Throttle Body:
- Locate the four bolts securing the throttle body to the engine block.
- Use a socket wrench to loosen and remove these bolts.
- Be careful not to drop the bolts into the engine bay.
4. Clean the Throttle Body:
- Inspect the throttle body for dirt, grime, or carbon buildup.
- Use a throttle body cleaner and a clean rag to remove any build-up.
- Be sure to clean both the inside and the outside of the throttle body.
5. Clean the IAC Valve (Optional):
- If you notice a lot of carbon build-up, take this step. The Idle Air Control (IAC) valve is located on the side of the throttle body.
- Use a throttle body cleaner to gently remove carbon deposits from the IAC valve.
6. Reinstall the Throttle Body:
- Position the throttle body back onto the engine block and install the four bolts that secured it.
- Tighten these bolts securely but do not over-tighten them.
7. Reinstall the Air Intake Hose:
- Reattach the air intake hose to the throttle body.
- Secure it using the hose clamp.
8. Reconnect the Car Battery:
- Reconnect the battery terminals back to the battery posts.
9. Start the Engine:
- Start the engine of the Honda Element and let it run for a few minutes.
- Check for any leaks around the throttle body area.
10. Test Drive:
- Take your vehicle for a short test drive to ensure that the throttle body is functioning correctly.