What are the symptoms of carbon deposits in the engine?
2 Answers
Symptoms of carbon deposits in the engine: 1. Difficulty in starting the engine multiple times when cold, but normal when warm; 2. Unstable engine idling, with fluctuating RPM; 3. Feeling of sluggishness and dullness while driving, especially noticeable when overtaking, with slow acceleration response and a significant difference compared to when the car was new; 4. Pungent exhaust fumes and excessive emissions; 5. A noticeable increase in fuel consumption compared to before. The formation of carbon deposits varies depending on the vehicle's usage environment, road conditions, fuel quality, driving and maintenance habits, etc. It is generally recommended to perform a non-disassembly carbon cleaning service every 20,000 kilometers. This involves using specialized equipment and methods to clean carbon deposits from areas prone to carbon buildup, such as the intake tract, valves, and fuel system, without disassembling the engine.
After driving for so many years, I've encountered quite a few issues with engine carbon buildup. The most obvious symptom is difficulty starting—it takes several turns of the key or presses of the button to get the engine going. At idle, the engine shakes violently, and you can feel the entire car body vibrating inside, making it seem like the car is about to fall apart. When accelerating, stepping on the gas pedal feels weak, and the car picks up speed as slowly as pulling an oxcart. Fuel consumption also spikes noticeably—what used to last two weeks now barely lasts one, causing a big hit to the wallet. As for exhaust, sometimes black smoke can be seen, and there's a strange smell. The noise level increases too, especially at high speeds, where the engine roars loudly. These symptoms progress quickly from mild to severe—what starts as minor idle instability can, if neglected, eventually make starting the engine a challenge. I recommend paying close attention to your car's condition and getting regular maintenance to clean out carbon deposits—it can save you a lot on repair costs.
