Is it necessary to add engine cleaner and protector?

[EmilioFitz]

It is not necessary to use them. Cleaning the air filter: The air filter is directly related to the engine's air intake during driving. The manager of a Guangqi Honda dealership told reporters that if the vehicle only drives in the city, the air filter will not be clogged. However, if the car is driven on roads with more dust, special attention needs to be paid to the cleanliness of the air filter. Removing throttle sludge: There are many reasons for sludge formation in the throttle. Some are caused by carbon deposits formed by fuel combustion exhaust at the throttle; others are residues from impurities not filtered by the air filter. Excessive sludge can cause air resistance in the intake, leading to increased fuel consumption.

[StStephen]

Whether to add engine cleaner and protector depends on the specific situation. I think if the car has been running for a long time and the engine has a lot of carbon deposits, adding cleaner can indeed help restore some power and improve fuel efficiency. However, it's really unnecessary for new cars—just change the oil on time. Spending extra money and effort isn't worth it. I've driven for over a decade, and well-maintained engines stay clean without additives. Some cheap products might even damage components, so it's not a must. The money saved is better spent on a good filter or checking the cooling system. Don't fall for advertising hype—practice is what matters. It's best to consult experienced drivers before deciding.

[DonovanFitz]

From a cost-saving perspective, engine cleaners and protectants aren't essentials. After all, they cost anywhere from tens to hundreds of yuan per bottle - you're better off saving that money for crucial maintenance. My experience shows that cleaners should only be considered when the engine performs poorly, like having difficulty starting or a sudden spike in fuel consumption. As for protectants, they're only necessary for high-temperature, high-load driving conditions. For most daily driving scenarios, regular oil changes provide sufficient protection - no need for extra measures. The key is verifying product authenticity, as some off-brand additives have negligible effects. They're not just a waste of money but might even cause clogging. I maintain good driving habits by avoiding sudden acceleration, which naturally extends engine durability.

[DaniellaLee]

I tried adding engine cleaner to my older car with over 100,000 kilometers. After adding it, the idle noise decreased and the driving became smoother, so I felt it had some effect. However, I only tried the protective additive once and didn't notice any significant changes. Personally, I think cleaners are more suitable for older cars with heavy carbon buildup—new cars shouldn't mess with it unnecessarily. A reminder: don't add it too frequently—once every two or three oil change intervals is enough. Adding it too often is a waste of money and might even affect oil quality. Just sharing my experience—the key is to assess your own car's condition and not blindly follow trends.