Is it necessary to add engine oil cleaner?
3 Answers
It is necessary and will not harm the engine. Here are the details: 1. Regular replacement: If the oil filter is clogged, it will obstruct the flow of lubricating oil, leading to poor engine lubrication, increased wear, and even bearing seizure. Clean or replace it regularly. Typically, it should be replaced every 8,000 km, or every 5,000 km in dry climates. 2. Car maintenance: During maintenance, replace the "three filters"—fuel filter, air filter, oil filter, and engine oil. Currently, most cars use gasoline as fuel, so the fuel filter is also known as the gasoline filter, or "gas filter" for short. The function of the "gas filter" is to filter out impurities generated during gasoline combustion. 3. Hidden risks: After prolonged driving, the oil filter and gasoline filter will accumulate many impurities, causing incomplete gasoline combustion, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased fuel consumption. Replace them regularly. The air filter will also accumulate dust and bacteria; if not replaced, air circulating inside the car can affect human health.
As a car owner who has driven many vehicles, I don't consider engine oil cleaners essential, but they're worth considering in certain situations. If you drive an older or high-mileage car like I do, the engine may have accumulated significant sludge and carbon deposits, leading to reduced power or increased fuel consumption. In such cases, using a cleaner can help break down these deposits, allowing smoother oil circulation and improved performance. But honestly, new or well-maintained cars don't need it at all – it might even pose risks like post-cleaning debris clogging oil passages or damaging seals. I strongly recommend regular oil and filter changes as the fundamental preventive measure. Regularly checking oil quality and vehicle condition can save you unnecessary expenses. The key is to assess your car's specific condition rather than blindly following trends, avoiding wasted time and resources.
As a budget-conscious car owner, I believe engine oil cleaners aren't necessary for every maintenance session—it's all about cost-effectiveness. A bottle of cleaner costing a few dozen yuan isn't expensive, but if your car is running normally without noticeable abnormal noises or vibrations, skipping this expense is a smart choice. I've tried adding it to my car, and while it did remove some carbon deposits, the effect was limited. In the long run, frequent oil changes offer better value. New cars especially should use these products sparingly. For older cars with high fuel consumption or minor issues, trying a cleaner might be worthwhile, but carefully assess the risks and rewards. The money saved can be allocated to more critical areas, such as regular inspections or part replacements. Remember, the essence of maintenance is prevention, not post-failure fixes. Saving money must be done wisely to maximize benefits.
