1999 nissan path finder - racing engine -high rpm's

[riderr]

Hello All
my luck with cars is at an all time low...
my daughter just called and was terrified becasue the engine was racing (rpm's were at or near 6000) and she was barely able to get the car stopped and then had a difficult time getting it into park. I had her turn the ignition off and then put it into park. She waiting for about 5 minutes and tried to start it again but it began "race" and so she turned it off.

any clues before I go to pick her up?

thanks

rob

[OriginalWheelman]

Gas pedal stuck is the obvious answer. If it has a throttle body, make sure the return spring is attached.

[Rev_D21]

Definitely sounds like a sticking throttle. Is the return spring still on the gas pedal?

[riderr]

hey guys and Gals

Just got back from working on the cable...and saw your response so thank you. Sure enough the throttle body cable was stuck. A little jiggle and it went right back into place. Will have to keep an eye on that.
Is this something that can be lubricated?

[themadscientist]

It could be lubricated. Motorcycle parts places will have a tool to do it. This is your daughter's vehicle, though. I would replace it. I'll drive seriously unsafe vehicles, but I wouldn't accept anything less than as safe as possible for a loved one.

[float_6969]

It can be lubricated, but it's usually recommended to replace it. As mad said, if I was the only one driving it, I'd lube it. But if the wife might drive it, it gets a new part.