Comparing Throttle Controllers – Featured Loaded vs. Budget
I am sure you have seen and heard of these units called “throttle controllers.” And it’s likely that you’ve encountered the Pedal Commander before.
I experience an awful lag in the throttle response in my 2019 Tacoma, but it is a common issue in most Tacomas. Tacomas, and 3rd Gens in particular, have a mushy feel to the gas pedal. People look to buy these units for better gas mileage, getting a potentially “faster” truck, or having a more sensitive and appropriately controlled gas pedal.
Regardless of make or model, these units typically have different modes and settings, making them customizable to your needs. To get rid of the lag in my Tacoma, I recently installed two different throttle controller units. One is the more expensive option, which many people are familiar with, and the other is the more affordable one, which is newer to the market. Both are very similar, but which one should you go with?
Common Throttle Complaints
Have you ever felt the awful lag in your gas pedal when getting up to speed on the freeway? The dead spot right in the middle of every acceleration and the truck’s sluggish response off the line? Everyone with a Tacoma, and even other vehicles, relate to this. Who likes a car that feels like it doesn’t want to move?
This issue lies primarily in how the truck’s computer reads the input from your gas pedal.
There are a few different ways to help with acceleration. More expensive solutions, such as a supercharger or a regear, could cost hundreds to a few thousand dollars, depending on what you go with. Or you could choose a simpler and more affordable option, which are the throttle controller units, which range from about $100-300. You shouldn’t have to spend a crazy amount of money when something as simple as a plug-and-play unit has the potential to address the issue.
What Is A Throttle Controller?
A throttle response controller is a unit that modulates the input effect that your pedal has on the truck’s electronic throttle positioning sensor. How this is programmed from the factory leaves much to be desired and is responsible for the common issue of gas pedal lag in your vehicle.
These controllers are plug-n-play install and do not void the warranty on your vehicle. Of course, this claim only references qualified companies. That Amazon special throttle controller for $50-75? You should definitely avoid those.
If you want to potentially save gas, alter the responsiveness of your gas pedal, or affect your truck’s overall quickness, then a throttle response controller might be exactly what you need. These units are compatible with cars, trucks, SUVs, etc. They are practical and have a simple installation process.
Let’s take a close look at these two units, what makes them the same, and what makes them different. This should help you visualize what you are getting when deciding between these two options.
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Note: This article was originally published on January 13, 2023. Check the latest Fukin Tuned prices here and Pedal Commander prices here.
