Does Engine Cleaner Harm the Engine?
3 Answers
Engine cleaners have strong dissolving capabilities. Excessive use of engine cleaners can cause certain damage to the internal seals and cylinder block of the engine. Details are as follows: 1. Engine cleaners can provide some cleaning effect when the vehicle has not traveled many miles, the carbon deposits inside the engine are not severe, and the accumulation of sludge and dirt is minimal. 2. After cleaning, it can remove carbon deposits, sludge, and dirt, enhance the fluidity of new engine oil, reduce engine temperature and noise, improve lubrication performance, and minimize wear, thereby extending the engine's service life.
I enjoy tinkering with my car and have used engine cleaners a few times. They can remove carbon deposits, make the engine run smoother, and save some fuel. However, improper use can indeed cause harm. Once I added too much and almost clogged the fuel line, causing the car to shake. Some cheap products can corrode seals, making replacements troublesome and costly. I recommend reading the instructions carefully, choosing products from reputable brands, and using them every few tens of thousands of kilometers, not too frequently. Remember to check the car's condition before use; only use it if carbon buildup is severe. This applies to both new and old cars—safety first.
Having worked in the workshop for over a decade, I've seen that engine cleaners are well-intentioned. For instance, fuel system cleaners remove carbon deposits and improve combustion efficiency. However, the issue lies in misuse—some users add them indiscriminately, leaving residues that corrode O-rings or fuel pumps, resulting in oil leaks and doubled repair costs. The key is type compatibility. Intake system cleaners benefit turbocharged cars but may interfere with fuel-injected ones. It's advisable to follow the car manual's guidance, use manufacturer-recommended products, consider them only after 100,000 kilometers, and consult a technician for diagnosis before proceeding to save hassle.
