Is Engine Internal Cleaning Fluid Useful?
4 Answers
Engine internal cleaning fluid is useful. Engine internal cleaners can remove residual sludge and dirt from the oil passages, and to some extent, they can also clean carbon deposits from the piston rings and ring grooves, providing practical maintenance benefits for the engine. However, due to their short retention time in the engine lubrication system and the inherent limitations of this no-disassembly cleaning method, the effectiveness of engine internal cleaners is relatively limited. Engines are applicable not only as power generation devices but also as entire machines including power units (such as gasoline engines and aircraft engines). Their types include internal combustion engines (e.g., gasoline engines), external combustion engines (e.g., Stirling engines, steam engines), gas turbines (used in racing cars), electric motors, etc.
As a long-time driver, I genuinely find engine internal cleaning fluid useful, especially after using it on my old car that had unstable idling and increased fuel consumption after years of use. Regular use of cleaning fluid effectively removes carbon deposits and sludge, improving combustion efficiency and making the car run smoother, with horsepower restored almost to its original level. After using it a few times, I clearly noticed less black smoke from the exhaust pipe and a slight drop in fuel consumption. Of course, it should be used within the oil change cycle—too frequent use may damage engine seals, so I use it once a year during maintenance. The cleaning fluid isn’t too expensive, much cheaper than professional cleaning at a dealership, and it’s easily available online or at auto repair shops. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure compatibility with your car model. Overall, it helps extend engine life, but don’t expect it to solve major issues—treat it as a preventive maintenance tool with good results.
As a frequent DIY car mechanic, I believe engine internal cleaning fluid has its value, but it's not a cure-all. When a car has run over 50,000 kilometers, carbon deposits tend to accumulate inside the engine, affecting heat exchange and lubrication. The cleaning fluid can dissolve those deposits, helping restore normal performance. I've used a branded product that you simply add to the old engine oil, run for ten minutes, then change the oil—it really made the car quieter and improved acceleration. However, caution is needed when using it, as low-quality cleaning fluids might corrode rubber parts or clog small oil passages, so I only choose reputable brand products. Also, it's unnecessary for new engines; regular maintenance is sufficient. Combining the cleaning with an oil change and air filter replacement yields the best results. Spending a few dozen yuan to try it is worthwhile, but don't over-rely on it. It's best to also check other components like spark plugs to ensure comprehensive maintenance. I think when used correctly, it's a cost-saving helper.
From a cost-saving perspective, I think engine internal cleaning fluid might be useful, but it depends. The cleaning fluid itself isn't expensive, usually around 50 yuan, which is cheaper than getting an engine cleaning service at a shop. If the car has run nearly 100,000 kilometers with heavy carbon buildup causing increased fuel consumption, adding a bottle can clean the internals and help save on fuel costs. However, for a new car or when there are few issues, it's not worth the waste. I've used it twice—once with noticeable effects and another time with almost no difference—so it's important to check the car's actual needs before buying. There are risks with cleaning fluid, such as incomplete dissolution damaging the engine. Comparing costs: regular oil changes are the basic safeguard, and there's no need to use cleaning fluid daily. I only try it when symptoms appear, once or twice a year. Overall, for someone on a tight budget like me, using it conditionally can save a lot of money.
