Rough idle & engine performance · Chicago, IL 60636
Throttle body cleaning & rough idle repair in Chicago
A rough or shaky idle, an engine that nearly stalls when you stop, slow throttle response or an idle that hunts up and down are common signs that carbon has built up inside the throttle body. Chicago Express Auto Service at 5901 South Ashland Avenue cleans the throttle body as part of its full tune-up, so the engine gets fresh spark and clean airflow in one visit.
- 4.9 on Google (339 reviews)
- Mon–Sat 9 AM–6 PM
- 59th & Ashland, Chicago
Posted prices · 5901 S Ashland Ave
Full tune-up prices with throttle body cleaning
Tune-up prices — 4-cylinder
Parts and labor included.
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Basic tune-up: spark plugs | $160 |
| Standard tune-up: spark plugs + engine air filter | $190 |
| Full tune-up: spark plugs, engine & cabin air filters, oil change, throttle body cleaning | $260 |
Tune-up prices — 6-cylinder
Parts and labor included.
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Basic tune-up: spark plugs | $220 |
| Standard tune-up: spark plugs + engine air filter | $250 |
| Full tune-up: spark plugs, engine & cabin air filters, oil change, throttle body cleaning | $320 |
Prices are the shop’s posted prices in US dollars. Oil change prices are plus tax. Card and app payment fees are listed under payment methods. See the full price list.
What the throttle body does
The throttle body is the valve that lets air into the engine. Over time, oily vapor and carbon coat the throttle plate and bore, so less air slips past at idle. The engine computer struggles to keep a steady idle and you feel shaking, rough running or stalling. Cleaning removes that buildup and restores smooth airflow.
Full tune-up price with throttle body cleaning
Throttle body cleaning comes in the full tune-up package: spark plugs, engine air filter, cabin air filter, an oil change and throttle body cleaning. 4-cylinder: $260. 6-cylinder: $320. Parts and labor included. Smaller packages start at $160 for 4-cylinder plugs only. See every package on the price list and in the auto tune-up service guide.
When it's more than a dirty throttle body
A rough idle can also come from worn spark plugs, a failing ignition coil, a vacuum leak or a fuel problem. If the check engine light is on or flashing, we start with a diagnostic computer scan so the right part gets fixed. Drivers from West Englewood, Englewood, Gage Park and Back of the Yards can walk in Monday–Saturday.
Ways to pay
Payment methods we accept
Pay at the shop with cash, credit or debit card, Apple Pay, Zelle or Cash App. Small processing fees apply to card and app payments, as posted at the counter.
- CashNo fee
- Visa$3 card fee
- Mastercard$3 card fee
- Apple Pay$3 fee
- ZelleNo fee
- Cash App$2 fee
In-shop special
$5 off your payment
Leave positive feedback for Chicago Express Auto Service on Google — scan the code or tap the NFC card at the counter — and get $5 off your payment.
South Side auto repair
Auto repair & oil change in Chicago, close to home
Chicago Express Auto Service is a neighborhood auto repair shop at 5901 South Ashland Avenue, serving drivers from West Englewood, Back of the Yards, New City, Gage Park, Chicago Lawn and the Midway area. Stop in for an oil change, brake repair, battery replacement, tune-up or check engine light diagnostics — walk-ins welcome Monday–Saturday, 9 AM–6 PM.
- Oil change near meQuick oil changes with the oil grade your engine specifies, new filter and a fluid check.
- Brake shop on AshlandBrake inspections, pads, rotors, drums and brake fluid service for cars, SUVs and trucks.
- Auto tune up serviceSpark plugs, ignition coils, filters and fuel system cleaning to restore smooth running.
- Transmission fluid changeTransmission and differential fluid service using the correct specification.
- Check engine light diagnosticsComputer scans and testing so repairs match the real cause.
- Battery & alternator testingBattery, starter and charging system tests before Chicago winter hits.
Rough idle & throttle body questions
How much does throttle body cleaning cost?
Throttle body cleaning is included in the full tune-up: $260 for 4-cylinder engines and $320 for 6-cylinder engines, with spark plugs, engine and cabin air filters and an oil change.
Why does my car shake at a red light?
Common causes are a dirty throttle body, worn spark plugs, a bad ignition coil, a vacuum leak or worn engine mounts. A quick inspection tells which one it is.
Will cleaning the throttle body fix a rough idle?
It often helps when carbon buildup is the cause. If the idle is still rough, we check spark, ignition coils and stored trouble codes.
Full service menu
More auto services in Chicago
Chicago Express Auto Service
Talk to the shop about your vehicle.
Oil changes, brake repair, battery testing, check engine diagnostics and suspension work at 5901 South Ashland Avenue. Monday–Saturday, 9 AM–6 PM.