Crossword Genius

Smothers car pedals (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

throttles

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This could be a double definition.

'smothers car' is the first definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with contact as well as being verbs in their -s form.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'pedals' is the second definition.
(I know this)

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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