Ignition, fuel and air
Throttle body replacement: what it costs
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $180 | $600 |
| Labor: 1 to 1.8 hours × $125 to $175 an hour | $125 | $315 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $0 | $25 |
| Total, rounded | $300 | $940 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in Boston, $31.54 an hour, times 4 to 5.5 to cover what a shop bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Parts are a band from budget aftermarket to the manufacturer part. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your car, parts and shop change the number.
A failing electronic throttle body is replaced. It can cause reduced power mode, stalling, rough idle and a throttle warning light.
What is usually included
- New throttle body and gasket
- Clear codes
- Idle relearn with a scan tool
- Test drive
What moves the price
- OEM versus aftermarket unit
- Needing programming
- Coolant lines on the body
- Air intake parts removal
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Was cleaning tried first?
- Does the new unit need programming?
- Is the throttle body warrantied, and is the relearn step included?
- Are the codes confirmed to be the throttle?
Can you do it yourself?
A moderate DIY on many cars with a few bolts and a connector, but the new unit usually needs a scan tool to relearn its closed position or the idle will be off.
Shopping for the part? Search car parts on eBay (affiliate link, disclosure). Make sure the part fits your car before buying.
Common questions
What does reduced power mode mean?
The computer limits engine power to protect itself. It often points to a throttle or pedal problem.
Can I just clean it?
Often, yes, if the part is only dirty. Replacement makes sense when the motor inside has failed or a code says the throttle is not moving as commanded.
Why is a scan tool needed?
Most newer throttle bodies must be taught their closed position to the engine computer. Without that step the car may idle badly or set a warning light.
How much does throttle body replacement cost?
A typical range in Boston is $300 to $940. That is an estimate from parts prices, labor hours and the local labor rate, not a quote.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $300 to $940 |
| New York City area | $300 to $930 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $300 to $940 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $290 to $910 |
| Houston area, Texas | $280 to $890 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $280 to $890 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $290 to $900 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $290 to $910 |
| Miami area, Florida | $280 to $900 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $300 to $940 |
Check-engine codes that lead to this repair
More ignition, fuel and air repairs
- Ignition coil replacement (one coil)
- Fuel injector replacement (one injector)
- Fuel pump replacement
- Mass airflow sensor replacement
- Throttle body cleaning
- Vacuum leak repair
- PCV valve replacement
- Crankshaft position sensor replacement
- Camshaft position sensor replacement
- Coolant temperature sensor replacement
- VVT solenoid / cam phaser repair
- Turbo boost leak repair