At what mileage should fuel additives start to be used?
3 Answers
Fuel additives should start to be used at 20,000 kilometers. Mileage for using fuel additives: Fuel additives are unnecessary for new vehicles with less than 20,000 kilometers. For vehicles exceeding 20,000 kilometers, they should be added as needed, typically one small bottle per tank of fuel. Long-term use of fuel additives can be harmful to the engine. Excessive use can increase carbon deposits in the combustion chamber, and prolonged overuse may even lead to engine knocking, detonation, and worsened vehicle emissions. Precautions for using fuel additives: New vehicles are not recommended to add fuel additives because they haven't been driven much, and their operating conditions are usually good, with no serious carbon deposits, so additives are unnecessary. Frequent use of fuel additives is not advisable, as it can lead to oil sludge and gum formation, increasing carbon deposits in the combustion chamber. They should be added based on the vehicle's usage. For severe carbon deposits, manual cleaning is still required; fuel additives are not a miracle solution. For vehicles with severe carbon deposits, manual treatment is necessary, as fuel additives cannot completely remove them. For older vehicles, the oil filter should be cleaned or replaced before adding fuel additives. Use fuel additives cautiously and add them reasonably according to the vehicle's condition.
I've driven quite a few cars and don't think fuel additives need to wait until high mileage to start using. Try adding them when the car is new or after a few thousand kilometers, using one bottle every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers. This helps clean engine carbon deposits and keeps the fuel system clear. Don't wait until the car has tens of thousands of kilometers—by then, carbon buildup might be significant, reducing the cleaning effect. My habit is to add a bottle during regular maintenance—simple and hassle-free. Choose a reputable brand and avoid cheap, low-quality products. Regular use can also help save on fuel costs, make the car run smoother, and extend engine life—killing multiple birds with one stone.
As a car enthusiast, I've found that the best time to use fuel system cleaner is either right from the start with a new car or by adding it approximately every 8,000 kilometers. Don't wait until tens of thousands of kilometers have passed before using it - adding it during the new car phase helps prevent carbon buildup. I've tried different products and recommend choosing reputable big brands to avoid engine damage. After regular use, the car accelerates faster and fuel consumption decreases slightly. If the car has already run 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers, you can start using it, but it's best to check the carbon buildup situation first. Combined with daily driving habits like reducing idling and short trips, the cleaning effect can be maximized to maintain stable performance over the long term.
