throttle stuck on freeway!

[benz320]

I was driving around 65mph in my 85 190E 2.3 - when I came to the exit, I realized the throttle was stuck. I braked hard but that slowed the car only gradually. Thankfully I pulled into a vacant lot, and killed the ignition to stop the car.

This has never happened before. And it seems to be back to normal now, but I am concerned about driving it again until I show it to a tech.

What could be the possible culprits?

Thanks.

[suginami]

You probably need to lube your throttle linkage.

The required maintenance interval is every 7,500 or every 15,000 miles - I don't remember which.

[benz320]

I got the 30,000 mile service done 8K miles ago - so I guess the throttle lube is due if the interval is 7.5K.

Could it also mean that the throttle body needs to be cleaned? Is that a simple procedure?

Thanks.

[suginami]

I don't recall if Mercedes has a maintenance requirement on the throttle body.

I do believe, however, that the common fix for a sticking throttle is to lubricate the linkage and to clean out the (for lack of a better word) swivel joints.

[benz320]

Thanks, I am taking it for an oil change friday, will get this also done.