Time: 1-2 hrs

Difficulty: moderate

Costs: $60-220 (aftermarket vs OEM)

BACKGROUND

The throttle body on the 2007 and newer Jeep Patriot is electronically controlled. The computer utilizes a position sensor on the foot pedal, along with several other inputs, to adjust the amount of incoming air.

With the high demands on the throttle motor, failure is not uncommon. In a running engine, the throttle plate is constantly making micro adjustments in response to vehicle speed, temperature, load, airflow, driver input, and so-on. When it fails, the fail safe is to default to a closed (idle) position so as to not run you off the road.

SYMPTOMS

Lack of power, poor throttle response, erratic idle, and various dash light indicators could mean you have a throttle body on the way out. It's common for the Jeep Patriot to throw an associated P0221, P2135 trouble code as well.

REPAIR PROCEDURE

Doing the repair as a DIY'er is relatively inexpensive and easy.  Removing the air duct from the air filter box down to the throttle body provides reasonable access. It's not a messy job and no computer programming is necessary. Simple tools can be used.

Watch the video below to see how the throttle body assembly was replaced on a 2014 Jeep Patriot with the 2.4L engine.