Problem with sticking throttle

[Artslinger]

I recently purchased a certified preowned 2001 BMW 325i with a manual trans.

I'm having a problem with the throttle it seems to me to be sticking and does not feel smooth. It also seems to be lagging and slightly unresponsive. After driving the BMW for a few days I started to notice this problem. I was driving a 97 Mustang GT before I purchased this BMW, and the Stang's throttle seemed much more responsive.

My question... is this my imagination? and has anyone here experienced this problem.

I plan on taking the car to the dealer to fix another problem and I'll have the tech check the throttle when its in the shop.

[SimonP]

I don't know about US-market BMWs but the Euro models have a long throttle pedal travel and an eccentric cam on the throttle body. It gives you a much finer control of the throttle, especially useful in city traffic. It also contributes to better gas mileage.
BUT compared to some other cars, it does seem that you have to give the car a lot of gas to make it do anything.
Upto half pedal travel may open the throttle just over 1/8. But then the power really starts to come in.

If it is actually sticking, that's another story.

[alibrownbmw]

The sticking throttle is a common problem found on the E46, if bad enough BMW replace the faulty unit under warranty. But basically if you look on your throttle housing, on the spring mechanism and then operate it and you will see what is causing the problem.Just click it back and lubricate it well (white grease or similar) and that should solve your problem - Cheers, ali

[hydrazine]

Thanks Ali, doing that will bring a few smiles back into the face. =)