While driving, you notice that your gas pedal sticks and does not press down or release easily. In most cases, cleaning your throttle body will fix the problem. Before doing this, however, make sure that your car has a cable-actuated throttle body, not a throttle body controlled electronically. Check your owner's manual or contact the dealer to find out which type you have.
Purchase throttle body cleaner from an auto parts store. Make sure you do not use a carburetor cleaner or silicone because either can damage your oxygen sensors.
Lift the hood and prop it open. Remove the air intake hose using a screwdriver to loosen the clamp. If your car is an older model without fuel-injection, remove the breather cover so you can get to the carburetor.
Open the butterfly valve on the carburetor. You can either gently open it with your finger, or enlist the help of a friend to press down on the gas pedal.
Spray a generous amount of the throttle body cleaner on a rag, and wipe the entire area. Spray the cleaner on a toothbrush to get at hard-to-reach areas.
Wipe off the throttle body with a rag. Spray and wipe a few more times if necessary.
Spray the butterfly valve on the joints so that it is well-lubed. This helps the valve to operate efficiently.
Reattach the air intake hose or breather.
Start your engine and let it run for about 10 minutes to burn off excess cleaner. Test your gas pedal to see if it is still sticking. Consult a mechanic if the problem persists.
