Does a Car Engine Need Cleaning?

[BryceAnn]

Engine cleaning is necessary as it effectively removes carbon deposits and debris. Engine Cleaning and Maintenance: Its primary function is to clean the sludge inside the engine and add an oil protectant to extend the lifespan of engine components. This maintenance project can be chosen based on your vehicle's condition if you have selected the oil type specified by the manufacturer and followed the manufacturer's mileage requirements for oil and filter changes. If the mileage is relatively low, you can decide whether to perform this maintenance each time based on your situation, which will provide some protection and cleaning for the engine. If the mileage is high or if you haven't performed regular maintenance before, you may skip it, as the effect won't be very noticeable. Benefits of Engine Cleaning: Cleaning Sludge from Oil Passages: The engine block is filled with oil passages, and over long-term use, sludge and other contaminants may accumulate inside these passages. Engine cleaning agents can help remove these sludge impurities from the oil passages, ensuring the proper functioning of the engine's lubrication system.

[LaTravis]

As someone who has been driving for nearly twenty years, I think engine cleaning is quite necessary. When carbon deposits build up over time, the engine will idle unevenly, lack power during acceleration, and fuel consumption will also increase. My old car is a perfect example—there was a period when it struggled to climb hills, but after getting the carbon deposits professionally cleaned, it ran much smoother. The cleaning method is quite simple: the mechanic adds a cleaning agent to the fuel system, and after driving a few laps, the dirt dissolves. It costs around two to three hundred yuan, which is cost-effective. In terms of frequency, for someone like me who often gets stuck in city traffic, I recommend cleaning every two to three years; for those who drive long distances on highways more often, it can be extended to four or five years. Don’t forget regular maintenance—changing the oil more frequently can also prevent carbon buildup. For safety, don’t try to do it yourself; it’s best to go to a professional shop.

[LeRiver]

As a working car owner with five to six years of driving experience, I feel that engine cleaning doesn't need to be done regularly—it's better to save the money. Unless obvious issues arise, such as difficulty starting, black smoke from the exhaust, or sudden loss of power, which might indicate severe carbon buildup. Last time, when my fuel consumption spiked, I tried fuel additives first, but they didn't help, so I went for a cleaning, and the effect was immediate. Cleaning usually involves chemicals or spray methods, costing anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand—just do what you can afford. For daily prevention, using high-quality gasoline or additives can help reduce carbon buildup. Remember, cars are inherently robust—don't over-maintain and harm the chassis. Regularly changing the air filter also helps keep the intake clean.

[SebastianFitz]

As a DIY car enthusiast, I've done engine cleaning myself a few times—it's cost-effective and practical! The method is simple: purchase a specialized cleaner, spray it into the intake system or add it to the fuel tank, then run the engine to let the heat dissolve the carbon deposits. It takes about half an hour. Remember to wear gloves and a mask, and avoid touching electronic components to prevent malfunctions. After cleaning, the engine runs smoother, and fuel consumption drops slightly. I recommend doing a minor cleaning annually, especially if you frequently drive short distances or live in a polluted area. However, if carbon buildup is severe, don't force it—take it to a shop for inspection. Making DIY a habit gives you more peace of mind when driving, and pairing it with an air filter cleaning is even better.

[DelMalachi]

I use this car to pick up and drop off my kids, and I believe engine cleaning is essential to prevent small issues from becoming big problems. Excessive carbon buildup can cause the engine to overheat or even break down on the road, which is too dangerous! Last time, the car kept shaking on the highway, but after cleaning, the power became stable again. The cleaning frequency depends on the car model and road conditions. For an average family car, once every three to four years is sufficient, costing just a few hundred yuan. Go to a repair shop for high-pressure or chemical cleaning—it's safe and reliable. Don’t slack on regular maintenance; combine it with oil changes and throttle body cleaning. Remember, cleaning isn’t magic, but it can extend engine life, reduce repair frequency, and provide extra safety for your family’s travels.