What are the effects of carbon deposits on a car?
2 Answers
Effects of carbon deposits on a car: Causes poor engine performance, resulting in abnormal phenomena such as difficulty starting, unstable idling, poor acceleration, backfiring when accelerating sharply, excessive exhaust emissions, and increased fuel consumption. Carbon deposits refer to a mixture accumulated on the engine's valves, combustion chamber, and intake pipes, formed when the engine's fuel does not fully combust, producing hydrochloric acid and resin-like adhesives under high temperature and oxygen catalysis, which adhere to the surfaces of components. Methods to remove carbon deposits: Engine disassembly and cleaning are required to thoroughly remove carbon deposits from components using detergents, ultrasonic methods, etc.
Having driven for over twenty years, I've found that carbon buildup in cars has a significant impact. It directly reduces engine power output, making the car respond slower when stepping on the gas and feel weak when climbing hills—it's like running in wet shoes. Fuel consumption also skyrockets, going from about 7-8 liters per 100 kilometers to possibly over 10 liters, wasting money on gas. Carbon buildup can also make cold starts difficult, especially on winter mornings when the engine struggles to turn over, buzzing for a long time—what a hassle. If left untreated for too long, it can lead to engine knocking, which sounds painful to hear, or even cause the car to break down midway. To prevent this, I add a bottle of fuel cleaner every 10,000–20,000 kilometers and regularly take the car on the highway to flush out the engine. Remember, ignoring carbon buildup for too long can lead to hefty repair bills.