Can Engine Cleaner Remove Carbon Deposits?
3 Answers
Engine cleaner can only remove surface carbon deposits and cannot achieve complete cleaning. Below is relevant information about engine cleaners: 1. Definition: Engine carbon deposit cleaner is formulated with high-efficiency surfactants, detergents, corrosion inhibitors, and other additives. It appears as a colorless transparent liquid and is diluted with water at a concentration of 3-6% during use. 2. Scope of Application: Suitable for degreasing and cleaning automotive components, leaving them bright and new while maintaining the original luster of metal materials. 3. Advantages: The cleaner has the ability to remove engine carbon deposits, replacing gasoline, kerosene, and organic solvents for engine cleaning. It saves petroleum resources and eliminates the health hazards posed by the toxicity of organic solvents.
Engine cleaner can indeed remove some carbon deposits, as I've personally experienced. After adding the cleaner to the fuel tank and driving a few dozen kilometers, it helps soften deposits in the combustion chamber. It's particularly effective for areas like the throttle body and fuel injectors, making the throttle response feel sharper. However, it's important to note that it mainly targets light carbon buildup. If the engine is full of hardened old carbon layers, it might not be very effective. Also, be cautious when choosing products—don't cheap out on no-name brands, as they can clog fuel injectors. I recommend using it every 20,000 kilometers, and combining it with high-speed driving to rev the engine works even better.
In principle, the active solvents in the cleaner can dissolve carbon deposits. They enter the cylinder with the fuel and break down sludge and gum deposits under high temperatures. I often recommend friends to add a bottle before maintenance, and change the oil immediately after cleaning for a more thorough effect. However, its effectiveness is limited in corners like piston rings or the back of valves, where disassembly and cleaning might be necessary. Also, avoid adding it when the engine is cold, as the high concentration during cold starts can damage the spark plugs. New engines benefit well from carbon deposit prevention, but older vehicles should use it cautiously, especially used cars with over 100,000 kilometers.
