Can Fuel Additives Really Remove Carbon Deposits?

[LaFelix]

Fuel additives can indeed remove carbon deposits from the engine. In fact, since gasoline combustion in the engine cannot achieve 100% efficiency, incomplete combustion leading to carbon buildup is inevitable. Here is relevant information: Functions of fuel additives: Inhibit carbon deposits, remove existing carbon buildup, clean fuel systems, improve gasoline combustion, enhance emissions, reduce engine knocking and vibration, thereby lowering fuel consumption and boosting power. Fuel additive standards: Of course, this is provided that the fuel additive meets quality standards and is of high quality. Especially when vehicles operate in highly congested urban traffic conditions with constant stop-and-go driving, where engines cannot run at high speeds, incomplete fuel combustion is exacerbated. This leads to carbon accumulation in areas such as the cylinder head, spark plugs, fuel injectors, and intake/exhaust valves, ultimately resulting in reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption, and higher pollutant emissions.

[Christopher]

I've tried fuel additives a few times myself and found they do help somewhat with cleaning engine carbon deposits, though the results aren't consistent every time. Carbon deposits refer to the sludge and impurities that build up inside the engine, mainly caused by incomplete fuel combustion, which can affect performance and fuel efficiency over time. Fuel additives contain cleaning agents that gradually dissolve some mild carbon deposits when added to the fuel tank. When I used it in my five or six-year-old car, after running through several tanks of fuel, I noticed smoother acceleration and particularly improved idle stability. However, for severe carbon buildup, like in cars that haven't been maintained for a long time, these additives aren't strong enough - you might still need professional cleaning at a repair shop. I'd recommend new car owners use it as a preventive measure, adding one bottle every few thousand kilometers to save on future repair costs. Just don't over-rely on it or add too much at once, as this could damage sensors or affect the exhaust system.

[Holly]

As someone with some knowledge of chemistry, I believe the effectiveness of fuel additives in removing carbon deposits isn't absolute. The PEA or PIBA components they contain can break down deposits, working on the principle of dissolving carbon buildup during combustion, which is quite effective for minor clogs in intake valves and fuel injectors. However, carbon deposits come in different types: surface-level ones are easier to clean, while deeply hardened deposits might remain unaffected. Additionally, engine materials vary greatly—some older engines might even produce black smoke or trigger warning lights after using these additives, doing more harm than good. In my daily driving, I use them judiciously: they're okay for prevention in new cars, but I'd avoid them in older vehicles. Don't blindly trust advertising hype—actual results depend on your car's condition and additive concentration. It's best to choose reputable brands, read instructions before use, and avoid reckless experimentation that could damage your car. These products aren't miracle cures—they might save some fuel but won't fix major issues.

[Lola]

I've tried different brands of fuel additives in various car models and found that some can slightly reduce carbon deposits, but they're not a cure-all. Carbon buildup makes the engine struggle to breathe, leading to decreased power. Additives can clean some shallow deposits during the break-in period, and a friend reported reduced engine vibration after use. Don't expect immediate results though – it may take two or three consecutive bottles to notice a difference. They become ineffective against severe blockages and may even increase risks. I use them as supplementary aids during regular maintenance for cost-effectiveness.