Can Engine Flushing Be Done for Oil Burning Issues?
3 Answers
Engine flushing is not recommended as it may worsen oil burning. Adding a protective agent is advisable instead. Cleaning the Air Filter: The air filter is crucial for engine air intake during operation. If clogged or excessively dusty, it restricts airflow to the engine, allowing large amounts of dust to enter cylinders. This accelerates carbon buildup, causing ignition difficulties, power loss, and consequently increased fuel consumption. Removing Throttle Valve Sludge: Sludge forms due to carbon deposits from fuel combustion exhaust accumulating on the throttle valve, along with impurities not filtered by the air cleaner. Excessive sludge creates air intake resistance, leading to higher fuel consumption.
I've driven several cars, and one of my old vehicles had severe oil burning issues, emitting blue smoke and consuming oil rapidly. A friend suggested cleaning the engine to improve the situation, but after trying a professional cleaning service, the effect was minimal. Oil burning is mainly caused by worn piston rings or aging valve seals, which allow oil to seep into the combustion chamber. Cleaning can only remove some carbon deposits and dirt, but it won't fix these components. In fact, cleaning agents sometimes aren't fully rinsed out, clogging oil passages and worsening the problem. Rather than spending hundreds on superficial fixes, it's better to directly use diagnostic equipment to check cylinder pressure and identify leakage points. If the issue is severe, disassembly and part replacement are necessary; otherwise, long-term driving can damage the engine and pose risks. Regular oil changes with quality oil can prevent such problems, but once issues arise, heading straight to a repair shop to address the root cause is the most reliable solution.
As an amateur car enthusiast, I've studied the principles of engine oil burning. Cleaning can remove carbon deposits and improve combustion efficiency, but it can't solve aging issues like piston ring or valve seal leaks. It might slightly reduce oil consumption temporarily, just like disinfecting a wound without stitching it up – ultimately ineffective. I'd first use tools to measure cylinder pressure and identify the root cause. Pouring cleaners into the fuel tank can at most assist in removing oil sludge, but can't compensate for wear. The best approach is clear diagnosis: replace faulty piston rings, tighten loose valve seals – don't expect cleaning to fix everything. Keeping oil clean and changing it regularly can extend engine life, but core solutions require professional repairs to prevent recurrence.
