How to Remove Engine Carbon Deposits?
2 Answers
Clear engine carbon deposits by following these steps: Open the oil filler cap, pour in the entire can of cleaner, replace the oil filler cap, then idle the engine for 10 minutes before shutting it off. Methods for cleaning carbon deposits in cars include: 1. Throttle body cleaning - Remove the engine cover, detach the throttle body, clean it with carburetor cleaner, dry with a cloth, and reinstall; 2. Fuel system carbon cleaning - Add a full bottle of fuel additive to the fuel tank before refueling; 3. Intake system carbon cleaning - Pour intake system cleaner into the reservoir of a dedicated cleaning device, connect it to the intake system, and let the engine vacuum draw the cleaner into the intake tract for cleaning purposes.
As a car enthusiast who frequently tinkers with vehicles, I believe removing engine carbon deposits relies on practical tips. First, the simplest method is using a fuel system cleaner—just pour a bottle into the tank when refueling and drive a few hundred kilometers to dissolve some deposits. It’s cheap and convenient. I’ve tried many brands myself and found the results decent, but don’t expect instant miracles. For severe carbon buildup, like power loss or hard starts, consider an intake system cleaning. It’s more reliable to visit a professional auto shop for high-pressure spray cleaning of the fuel injectors and throttle body. For prevention, I avoid too many short, low-speed trips and occasionally take my car on the highway to rev the engine, which helps burn off residues. Also, always use high-quality gasoline—don’t skimp on cheap, low-grade fuel, as it significantly reduces carbon buildup over time. In short, start with simple methods and escalate step by step. Avoid rushing into disassembly to prevent engine damage.
