How often should the engine intake system be cleaned?
2 Answers
The engine intake system should be cleaned approximately every 20,000 kilometers. It consists of an air filter, intake manifold, and intake valve mechanism, and its function is to direct air or the air-fuel mixture into the engine cylinders. The working principle of the intake system is as follows: after air passes through the air filter to remove impurities, it flows through the air flow meter, enters the intake manifold via the intake duct, mixes with the gasoline injected by the fuel injector to form an appropriate air-fuel ratio, and is then sent into the cylinder by the intake valve for ignition and combustion to generate power. The engine's function is to convert the thermal energy of gasoline or diesel into mechanical energy by burning and expanding the gas in the sealed cylinder, thereby driving the piston to perform work.
I've driven quite a few cars, and cleaning the intake system really depends on mileage—generally every 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers. If you mostly drive in the city with frequent traffic jams or dusty air, you'll need to do it more often. The engine intake system is responsible for drawing in air, and over time, carbon deposits and sludge can build up, leading to higher fuel consumption, reduced power, and in severe cases, sluggish acceleration or rough idling. My last car ended up needing a sensor replacement because I didn't clean it in time, costing me unnecessary money. Regular cleaning keeps the intake passages clear and the engine running smoothly. I recommend going to a 4S shop or a reputable repair shop—they use professional tools and cleaners, which work much better than DIY attempts. The maintenance manual often suggests doing it by mileage or every two years. Don't wait for problems to arise; it saves money and gives peace of mind.
