Gas pedal hard to depress + higher than normal rpms, please help

[Bug Guy]

Hey all,
So I know it's not always the best thing to jump on a forum to ask a question when I know I won't have anything to add. So let me preface by saying I did search the site (and the internet), and while I think I have the answer, I'd like some other opinions. I'm also looking to help a friend of mine who doesn't have a ton of money maybe avoid a costly repair bill, because we live in a city and I can't tell you the number of times people I know have gotten ripped off my mechanics in the area).

She has a 2000 Toyota Avalon. The gas pedal is difficult to depress, and when she does she gets higher than normal RPM's. I'm assuming any loss of power is slight because she said she didn't notice any. Car is overdue for an oil change. Sits in the driveway mostly except for a long trip recently where the problem did not occur. Does not go away when the car heats up (my first though since the DC area where we live is having some cold weather lately).

From my knowledge and searches on this site, the most likely problem is the throttle body (inside and/or linkage) needs to be cleaned. However, I'm wondering if there is a problem with any mechanical parts related to throttling up (from pedal to throttle body) especially given the difficult time depressing the pedal or an electrical/computer issue. Any help wold be greatly appreciated.

Cheers,

bob

[kegunder]

Hmm. Stumper.

Get the Throttle body cleaned and the intake inspected. (Maybe put a new air filter in yourself beforehand.) Tell them to only do that and to let you know if they see anything binding up the trottle. Get a quote and stick to your guns when they call and tell you the engine is about to fall out of the car (just kidding.)

Try changing the oil more. The engine may be nearly destroyed due to sludge. If so, don't let anyone clean out the sludge for you unless you really trust them.

[Bug Guy]

kegunder,
Thanks for the reply. I said the same thing essentially to my friend, but she ended up taking it to the mechanic and didn't call me with the diagnosis and a quote. Short story:

Appears that cleaning the "fuel / air induction system" worked. I wasn't able to get from my friend what they actually did but I'm assuming that means they cleaned the throttle body at the very least - total cost of $190 (you try and help someone...). I'm hoping they ran injector cleaner and replaced the air filter for that price as well, but I have no idea. Of course, they also checked the transmission fluid and at 54k miles that apparently needed changing too (they said it was black - auto trans), so add another $150 for flush and refill.

At the least my question will go into the archive and will hopefully help someone else figure out the problem through searching the forums.

Thanks for all the help,

Cheers,

bob