How often should the fuel injector and throttle be cleaned?
2 Answers
The fuel injector and throttle should be cleaned approximately every 20,000 kilometers. Below is an introduction to fuel injector cleaning: 1. Generally, the fuel injector should be cleaned every 2 years or 60,000 kilometers. If not cleaned regularly, it may lead to increased fuel consumption and reduced power output. Therefore, regular cleaning is recommended. 2. If the fuel injector is not cleaned for a long time, it may develop leaks or become clogged. If clogged, the sprayed gasoline cannot atomize properly, causing the car's exhaust pipe to emit black smoke. 3. This can result in a misfire in one of the engine cylinders, leading to noticeable engine shaking and symptoms such as poor acceleration.
I've driven many cars, and my experience is that the frequency of fuel injector and throttle body cleaning depends on driving habits and environment. In congested urban areas or places with poor air quality, fuel injectors are prone to carbon buildup and clogging, so they should be cleaned every 15,000 km. The throttle body accumulates carbon faster due to airflow intake, and it's recommended to clean it every 18,000 km—otherwise, you may experience idle shaking and increased fuel consumption. My previous car wasn't cleaned on time, and acceleration became noticeably sluggish—it almost stalled. After cleaning, the power returned to normal. New drivers often ask about cleaning methods: professional shops use fuel system cleaners or additives, but DIY attempts are risky—it's best to consult a technician. Don't wait until problems worsen to take action, as the cost will be higher. Regular inspections are key; during maintenance, check the air filter and fuel quality as well, as these are related. In short, act proactively based on symptoms—safety comes first.
