Jim Grant's Tech Tips

'98 Chevy Blazer, Sticky Gas Pedal

Q: The gas pedal in my '98 Chevy Blazer sticks. It only sticks immediately after starting the vehicle. After that it usually does not stick until the next time I start the vehicle. Do you have any suggestions to prevent this?

- David

A: When you say the gas pedal is sticking do you mean just as you step on the gas pedal, that very first moment of movement? If that is the case it is likely that you have carbon deposits on the throttle plate and bore of the throttle body. The problem may even be more pronounced when the engine is cool. The solution is a simple cleaning of the throttle plate and bore. Use a soft plastic brush or rag and mild cleaner. A little WD-40 works pretty well at softening up the deposits, add a some elbow grease until the surfaces shine again and the problem should be gone.